When Josie Renick got her first internship with the Goff Institute’s Explorers program, she never imagined how far it would take her. Her professional journey began with an internship at the Health Enhancement Research Organization (HERO), a national non-profit dedicated to improving workplace health and well-being. Tasked with analyzing data, Josie’s internship was about more than just crunching numbers—with Goff’s guidance, Josie pushed herself to think strategically, communicate effectively, and take ownership over her internship. She attributes her ability to land future internship opportunities to this foundational experience with Goff Explorers.

Before joining Explorers, Josie’s Goff journey began with the Pathfinders Leadership Cohort, where she set ambitious goals and worked closely with a peer mentor to refine her leadership skills. Through guest speakers, self-reflection, and service projects with local non-profits, she grew confidence in her leadership skills. Today, Josie has come full circle—returning as a mentor to guide younger students.

Her most transformative experience was working with The Other Side Village, a nonprofit designed to support formerly unhoused individuals. As part of Trailblazers, Josie and her teammates developed career development strategies for TOSV residents.

“Working with The Other Side Village through Goff has been a highlight of my college career,” Josie said. “Not only was I able to exercise my strategic thinking and leadership skills, but I was inspired by all that The Other Side Village is doing in our community. This project truly shaped my abilities as both a leader and a community builder.”

Now, as she looks to her senior year, Josie plans to apply to the Scholars program to continue building her leadership skills.

Josie’s story is just one example of how the Explorers, Pathfinders, Trailblazers, and Scholars programs at the Goff Strategic Leadership Institute help students gain confidence and make a real-world impact. Whether it’s landing your first internship, mentoring others, or working with a team to tackle big, strategic challenges, Goff programs are designed to help you build the skills you need to lead.

The right experience, at the right time

Applications for Goff programs are now open, offering a range of experiences for students depending on what YOU are looking for:

• • Explorers: Be matched with your first internship and gain support along the way.
  • Pathfinders: Focus on self-discovery and leadership development during your sophomore year as you navigate significant life decisions.
  • Trailblazers: Collaborate in small teams to drive the missions of social impact organizations forward.
  • Scholars: A year-long program to engage with multiple companies of varying industries and sizes—perfect for students like Josie looking to finish strong.

Real impact, real experience

At the Goff Institute, we believe leadership is for everyone and is everywhere. Leadership is in the labs, film sets, sports teams, and policy meetings. Our approach to strategic leadership empowers individuals to tackle real-world challenges, embrace ambiguity, and challenge the status quo.

Ready to grow your confidence in leadership? Apply now to join a community of ambitious students committed to making a difference. Applications close soon—don’t miss your chance to turn your passion into purpose.

Priority deadline for all applications is April 4, 11:59pm.