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Leaders Academy experience and benefits

Maximize the value of your college education and experience by being part of the W. P. Carey Leaders Academy. This small community of top-performing undergraduate students within ASU's W. P. Carey School of Business empowers you to achieve excellence. Members have access to academic, professional, and social opportunities for a fulfilling undergraduate experience.

Who is eligible?

Incoming first-year business students who are admitted to Barrett, The Honors College at ASU or in the top 15 to 20 percent of students based on their high school academic records are automatically selected to the W. P. Carey Leaders Academy. Students who are not currently eligible can apply later on as long as they meet academic and community requirements.

Complement your Barrett, The Honors College experience

ASU’s top-ranked honors college complements your W. P. Carey Leaders Academy experience, allowing you to be in two tight-knit communities of scholars with numerous academic and social perks. High-achieving students who are not already considering Barrett are encouraged to take a closer look. You'll meet motivated business peers through Leaders Academy and top students from multiple disciplines who you wouldn't otherwise meet through Barrett. Students in both communities have priority class registration and honors advisors.

Join an honors living and learning community

W. P. Carey Leaders Academy students live with their peers, meet up to study, and form lifelong friendships in our residential business communities. First-year Leaders Academy students can live in buildings within a variety of spaces designated for Leaders Academy. Located just minutes from your classes and campus amenities, these living and learning communities allow you to connect with other motivated and capable students. You'll be with other students who understand your challenges and encourage your success.

"Leaders Academy has allowed me to meet highly motivated students in the W. P. Carey School of Business," says Macy Haugland (BS Finance/BA Financial Planning). “I have been able to connect with peers who are highly determined and encourage me to pursue a further level of achievement.”

Make memories at APPLE events

Students experience a sense of community at events planned by Academy Peer Programmers for Leadership Engagement (APPLE), a group of motivated Leaders Academy students who want to give back to the community. Previous programming includes employer site tours, broomball, APPLEfest, end-of-year banquets, trips to the Phoenix Zoo and Phoenix Art Museum, and watch parties. These unique events help you discover your career path, make valuable connections, and learn new skills.

"APPLE events create lasting connections on campus," says Ethan Hasson (BA Sports Business). “The events are led by and tailored to Leaders Academy students. Some of the best memories I've made on campus have come through my time as an APPLE and being able to create a sense of community for the business school.”

Access distinct academic support

W. P. Carey Leaders Academy students receive immediate access to resources and support to achieve at the highest level. You’ll work with the same Leaders Academy academic advisors — even if you switch or add majors — throughout your time at W. P. Carey. These advisors are well-versed in complex degree programs and honors thesis requirements.

"Leaders Academy has consistently supported my academic and professional career," says Cassie English (BS Business Data Analytics/Marketing). "I've made many of my friends through events, and the expertise of my advisor has been immensely helpful as I figure out my future aspirations.”

W. P. Carey also offers Leaders Academy community spaces and lounges at multiple campus locations, designed to help you excel and meet new friends. You can reserve rooms for quiet individual study or work on group projects with peers. These lounges also provide free printing and unique events for honors students.

"Our absolute favorite place on campus was Leaders Academy. We loved it. We made so many connections there," says Madison Furnas (BS Marketing) and Adrian Lauderdale (BS Marketing).

Build relationships with faculty

All W. P. Carey Leaders Academy students have the opportunity to talk with faculty members from every academic department and get to know them outside the classroom. Faculty mentors volunteer to specifically work with Leaders Academy students — offering great advice on career paths and research opportunities.

"In my nearly 20 years here at ASU, I have seen Leaders Academy provide an invaluable resource to W. P. Carey students," says John Eaton, a clinical professor of marketing. “I've watched motivated students take part in all that Leaders Academy has to offer, launching them into their successful careers.”

Shape your future career

The W. P. Carey Career Services Center even provides targeted career support to Leaders Academy students. Take advantage of a semester-long professional development course, workshop opportunities, and your own career coach.

>> If you're ready to challenge yourself, grow your leadership skills, and start building a meaningful career from your first year, the W. P. Carey Leaders Academy is your next step.