Can a short program really turn an idea into action and reshape how you make change in the world?
Leadership exCHANGE has run an award-winning program since 1999, with students from 80+ countries and 170+ universities contributing over 750,000 inspired hours.
Our exchange model helps emerging leaders move from concept to real impact through expert-led, cross-cultural learning and hands-on projects.
Expect programs in Raleigh, North Carolina, and Prague, Czech Republic, that build transferable skills in collaborative problem solving and career development.
Whether you seek short-term study, internship pathways, or credit-bearing options, the structure guides students step-by-step to find the right fit.
Read on to learn how this network of mentors and peers around world supports practical experience, safety, and outcomes that elevate your education and professional narrative.
Lead with Purpose: Why Our Global Leadership Exchange Programs Stand Out
When ideas meet mentorship and local partners, motion replaces intention. Our model pairs expert faculty with civic organizations in Raleigh and Prague. This mix gives students the expertise and resources they need to turn classroom knowledge into applied projects.
Transform ideas into action with expert-led, cross-cultural learning
Seminars, fieldwork, and mentorship blend to make progress fast. Design-thinking workshops and entrepreneurship modules let students test ideas in real settings.
Join a community of students, leaders, and organizations
- Coaching on project design, stakeholder mapping, and presentation skills.
- Connections to HQ Raleigh, local NGOs, and academic partners for on-the-ground impact.
- Access to alumni networks and ongoing support to scale promising prototypes.
Evidence-informed practice guides every step. The result is clear: students gain confidence, a portfolio of outcomes, and a purposeful plan to keep innovating.
Programs and Locations: Europe and the USA with Social Impact at the Core
Choose a location that matches your academic calendar and your desire to make tangible social impact.
Prague, Czech Republic — summer two-week sessions
Prague offers intensive, two-week summer programs that award 3–4 US credits (6–8 ECTS). July classes have included Creativity & Design for Social Entrepreneurs, Women & Leadership, Comparative Study of Peace, Conflict & Religion, and Social Innovation for Public Health.
Raleigh, North Carolina — four-week study + internship
Raleigh combines a four-week format with classroom and internship work for 6 US credits (12 ECTS). Core options include ENTR350 Introduction to Entrepreneurship and ENTR364 Entrepreneurship in Practice hosted at HQ Raleigh.
Custom options for schools and groups
Custom programs adapt duration, credits, and themes to match objectives. Cohorts can target capstone deliverables, pilots, or research-backed projects with partner briefings and full site-based services.
| Location | Length | Credits | Signature Themes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prague | 2 weeks (summer) | 3–4 US (6–8 ECTS) | Creativity, Women & Leadership, Social Innovation |
| Raleigh | 4 weeks | 6 US (12 ECTS) | Entrepreneurship, Internships, Community Innovation |
| Custom | Variable | Variable | Tailored themes for groups |
“Hands-on project work and partner briefings connect classroom goals to community needs.”
Compare length, credit, and theme to pick the best fit for your schedule and goals. The exchange structure fosters collaboration among participants from multiple countries and helps leaders build a credible portfolio aligned with global leadership pathways.
Global leadership exchange courses
Short, intensive study paths pair classroom theory with hands-on projects that meet real community needs.
Short-term study abroad with community-driven projects and real-world learning
Programs run a tight schedule that blends seminar time with field work. Students join small groups to map needs, design prototypes, and test solutions with local partners.
Applied research methods validate community input and shape evidence-aligned solutions. Deliverables often include prototypes, policy memos, or partnership proposals.
Expert faculty, local partners, and resources to support meaningful change
Faculty lead practical frameworks for research, design, and implementation. Daily practice, reflection, and feedback build development of core competencies.
Local partners open doors to stakeholders and context. Student experience includes milestone deliverables, iterative testing, and final presentations that can scale after the program ends.
- Faculty office hours and partner briefings provide academic and logistical support.
- On-site services ensure continuity so groups focus on impact.
- Peer collaboration accelerates confidence and practical readiness.
Who It’s For: High School and Young People Ready to Lead
This program is built for teens who want a summer opportunity to grow skills, try projects, and see real impact.
High school students and emerging young people seeking summer opportunities
Ideal participants are high school students and young people who want structure and clear goals. No prior experience is needed.
Groups work on team projects, practice public presentation, and learn how to collaborate across cultures and contexts.
Admissions support for students and families in the United States
Families receive consultations to match interests, timelines, and themes with the right program. Staff offer application help, travel preparation, and on-program communication plans.
- Education goals are mapped into course choices, internships, or custom options.
- Trained staff provide daily schedules, oversight, and wellbeing support.
- Tips help pick a session by duration, credits, and project focus.
Students leave with stronger confidence, clearer academic or career pathways, and practical examples they can bring back to school and community life.
Learning Experience and Support: Safety, Community, and Growth
We design each session so young people can learn boldly while families stay informed and assured. The program pairs clear safety systems with daily practice to build confidence and healthy habits.
Five-point safety system and full-service parent support
The five-point safety system includes trained expert staff, vetted lodging, risk protocols, emergency response plans, and continuous family communication. This keeps health and situational awareness front and center.
Families receive orientation materials, regular updates, and direct staff contacts before, during, and after the program. That full-service support simplifies planning and eases travel concerns.
Home Base lodging, inclusive group culture, and daily practice
Home Base lodging provides a safe, comfortable hub for nightly debriefs and group cohesion. A consistent space helps the group form trust and practice leadership roles daily.
Students take on responsibilities that shape teamwork, empathy, and real-world decision making. This balance of work, rest, and exploration supports positive life skills and growth.
Access to mentors, partners, and practical resources
Local partners and mentors bring context and expertise to student projects. Access to materials, field supervision, and partner briefings strengthens outcomes and community impact.
- Included services: airport pickup/drop-off, lodging, meals, excursions, educational materials, and medical/evac insurance for international programs.
Overall, the program design centers health, supervision, and meaningful work so students leave better prepared for future roles.
Impact and Credibility: A Network of Global Leaders Around the World
Data-driven events and sustained follow-ups help participants convert plans into accountable action.
Scale and measurable outcomes
Alumni come from 80+ countries and 170+ universities and have logged 750,000 inspired hours. This scale shows how peers and mentors move ideas into practice across sectors and regions.
Evidence-informed design tied to policy and wellbeing
Programs cover workplace psychological health and safety, anti‑Indigenous racism in healthcare, supported employment, school-based mental health, accessibility, and 2SLGBTQ+ leadership.
Sessions on data and measurement, including work led by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), help teams track outcomes and improve services.
From events to action
Formats include international comparative learning, policy roundtables, and co‑designed action plans with milestones. Follow-ups at 30, 90, and 180 days keep teams accountable.
- Cross-sector groups (government, NGOs, academia) use research and data to guide local and federal roles.
- Individuals with lived experience shape priorities and practical solutions.
- Education partners help scale evidence-based practices in school-based mental health.
| Metric | Scope | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Alumni | 80+ countries, 170+ universities | Peer networks for project scaling |
| Hours | 750,000 inspired hours | Demonstrates sustained engagement |
| Follow-ups | 30/90/180 days | Maintain momentum and measure impact |
Conclusion
Choose the path that turns curiosity into measurable community impact this summer or term. Our program options balance rigorous learning and hands-on work to strengthen health, wellbeing, and community outcomes.
Pick Prague (two weeks; 3–4 US credits) or Raleigh (four weeks; 6 US credits plus internship at HQ Raleigh) based on length, credits, and theme. Both blend practical project work, faculty guidance, and local partner engagement backed by research.
Students build daily practice, reflective roles, and a tangible portfolio that shows development and impact. Families can expect vetted lodging, transport, insurance, and clear staff support before, during, and after each program.
Explore programs, start an application, or schedule a consult to turn your experience and ambitions into action.
FAQ
What are these programs and who runs them?
These are short-term study programs that combine classroom learning, community projects, and internships. University faculty, local civil society partners, and experienced practitioners lead the sessions. Programs emphasize practical research, service, and development to prepare students for roles in policy, education, and nonprofit sectors.
Where and when do sessions take place?
Offerings include summer sessions in Prague, Czech Republic (two weeks with 3–4 US credits / 6–8 ECTS) and extended programs in Raleigh, North Carolina (four weeks with 6 US credits / 12 ECTS). We also design custom programs for schools, youth groups, and organizations in multiple countries.
Who should apply?
High school students and young people seeking summer opportunities, college applicants, and emerging community leaders benefit most. Families and guidance counselors receive admissions support, and programs suit those interested in social impact, human rights, and community innovation.
What academic credit is offered?
Courses offer transferable US credit and ECTS where noted. Credits vary by location and course length; Prague sessions award 3–4 US credits (6–8 ECTS), while Raleigh programs provide 6 US credits (12 ECTS). Participants receive official transcripts and academic advising.
How does the learning experience blend theory and practice?
Each program mixes expert-led seminars, applied research, and community-driven projects. Students work with local partners on service initiatives, attend skill workshops, and participate in daily leadership practice to turn ideas into action.
What safety and support systems are in place?
We operate a five-point safety system, full-service parent support, and Home Base lodging in select locations. Staff provide on-site supervision, health support, and emergency contacts. Pre-departure briefings and local mentors ensure wellness and access to services.
Are internships part of the program?
Yes. Longer programs, especially in Raleigh, include internship placements with nonprofits, research centers, and public service organizations. These placements offer work experience, networking, and guidance from supervisors to build career-ready skills.
How does the program ensure accessibility and inclusion?
Programs prioritize accessibility through evidence-informed design, reasonable accommodations, and scholarship opportunities. Staff collaborate with local partners to create inclusive group cultures and expand access to resources for diverse learners.
What themes and specializations are available?
Signature themes include community innovation, human rights, women & leadership, creativity & design, and internships focused on social impact. Courses incorporate policy, research methods, and practical service to support community change.
How do alumni stay connected and what is the impact?
Alumni join a network spanning 80+ countries and 170+ universities. The community participates in events, matches, and collaborative research projects that contribute to long-term impact—measured in participant hours, community outcomes, and policy influence.
What is the application process and timeline?
Applications include a form, academic records, and a personal statement. Deadlines vary by session; summer program applications typically close in spring. Admissions staff offer guidance to students and families throughout the process.
How are program fees and financial aid handled?
Fees cover tuition, lodging options, some meals, and local activities. Financial aid and scholarships are available based on need and merit. Detailed fee breakdowns and payment schedules are provided during the application stage.
Can schools or organizations request custom programs?
Yes. We design tailored programs for schools, community groups, and organizations worldwide. Custom programs align with institutional goals, incorporate local partners, and can focus on service, research, or capacity building.
How do programs measure learning and community impact?
Measurement uses mixed methods: participant surveys, partner feedback, project outcomes, and data on hours contributed. Programs align with policy frameworks and wellbeing metrics to document educational value and community benefit.
