EVENTS

The Spring 2025 ULN Kickoff offered scholars a space to reconnect with their peers, meet coordinators at interactive game stations, and engage with campus partners. Designed to energize and equip students for the semester ahead, the event provided key resources, encouragement, and a strong sense of community to help scholars start the new year with momentum.

This kickoff session introduced students to the core principles of empathetic leadership. Through interactive activities like human bingo and uncommon commonalities, students broke the ice while exploring shared experiences. Students reflected on the role empathy plays in cultivating a sense of belonging and discussed how understanding others’ perspectives can foster inclusive communities.

In the second session, students engaged in self-reflective exercises, including designing personal flags to represent their identities, values, and leadership styles. The activities encouraged deeper conversations about authenticity and intentionality in leadership. By recognizing their own experiences and emotions, students explored how self-awareness is a foundation for empathetic connection and meaningful teamwork.

The final event focused on applying empathetic leadership strategies in real-world contexts. Through group discussions and collaborative scenarios, students practiced communication and problem-solving skills that centered on empathy and understanding. The session wrapped up with students identifying personal goals for how they can lead with empathy in their organizations, classrooms, and communities.

ULN Scholars explored creativity, career-building, and innovation during the Media & Fine Arts Leadership Panel, a dynamic event that brought together industry professionals to share their personal journeys in the creative world. Scholars gained insights into breaking into media and fine arts fields, the evolving role of AI in artistic expression, and the skills needed to thrive in these industries. This inspiring panel offered valuable advice, real-world experiences, and meaningful connections to help scholars begin crafting their own creative career paths.

An afternoon of art, insight, and connection unfolded during ULN’s exclusive guided tour of the Blanton Museum of Art. Scholars explored thought-provoking pieces from the museum’s extensive collection while sharpening critical skills such as creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and active listening. The experience encouraged deeper reflection and dialogue—and wrapped up with light snacks and shared moments that brought the cohort closer together.

An evening of connection and confidence-building unfolded at the Meet the Pros: Etiquette Dinner, where ULN Scholars practiced professional dining etiquette while engaging in meaningful conversations with professionals from diverse career fields. Over a multi-course meal, scholars gained insights into workplace culture, built new networking skills, and walked away with tips that will serve them in interviews, internships, and beyond. It was a night of polished forks, powerful advice, and promising connections.

From navigating applications to thriving in graduate school, ULN Scholars heard it all during the Graduate Student Panel Q&A. Featuring recent grads from top institutions like Cornell University, UC San Diego, and UT Arlington, this candid conversation gave scholars a behind-the-scenes look at academic life beyond undergrad. Panelists shared their motivations, challenges, and advice for finding the right graduate program—offering guidance and inspiration for those considering the next step in their academic journeys.

Career prep took center stage at the ULN Career Readiness Expo, where scholars explored their professional potential through a variety of hands-on experiences. The event featured workshop sessions on key career readiness topics, a resource fair highlighting experiential learning opportunities, and one-on-one mock interviews to sharpen students’ confidence and communication. With flexible attendance options and light refreshments, the expo offered a personalized and practical pathway for scholars to build career momentum—one session at a time.

The Second Year Symposium: Future in Focus served as an inspiring milestone for the Texas '27 cohort, offering a chance to reflect on their development and envision what lies ahead in their UT journey. It was a celebration of their achievements over the past two years and a launchpad into the opportunities that await. Featuring keynote speaker Gigi Secuban, two engaging breakout sessions, and thoughtful discussions centered on academic, career, and personal growth, the event equipped scholars with valuable insights and a renewed sense of purpose to confidently complete their second year.

Outdoor Activities Tag Along

Games Tag Along

Music, Dance & Theatre Tag Along

Arts, Crafts & Museums Tag Along

Volunteer Tag Along

Music, Dance & Theatre Tag Along

Arts, Crafts & Museums Tag Along

Volunteering Tag Along

Arts, Crafts & Museums Tag Along

Games Tag Along