Enrichment Opportunities

Challenge Discovery
At the beginning of their first academic year at the University, all Jefferson Scholars participate in Challenge Discovery. This weekend-long outdoor leadership course not only encourages teamwork and trust, but also builds stronger and deeper friendships among the Scholars. Activities include two days of camping, low ropes work, rappelling, and team-building exercises.
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Institute for Leadership & Citizenship
In the summer after their first year, all Scholars participate in a two-week Institute for Leadership and Citizenship designed to foster a deeper appreciation for the art of leadership and the importance of citizenship. Designed by the Foundation and held on the Grounds of the University, the Institute features in-class workshops and a service learning project.  Read More >>

Travel Studies
During the summer prior to their third year, all Scholars are invited to participate in a carefully designed five-week foreign travel/study experience. Following the structured program, each Scholar has the opportunity to undertake an independently designed inquiry into a topic of personal interest.
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Alumni Internship Program
The summer before their fourth and final year at the University, Scholars may choose to participate in an internship with a Jefferson Scholar Alumna/us. Matches are made by the Foundation Staff based on field of interest and location. Funding is available to cover living expenses for the Scholar during the time of the unpaid internship. Read More >>

Jefferson Scholars Public Service Fellows
The Jefferson Scholars Public Service Program (JSPSP) seeks to broaden and enhance the Jefferson Scholars’ commitment to citizenship and public service. The program encourages those Jefferson Scholars who share a passion for politics, American Democracy, international relations, public policy, and the historical understanding of these processes to become Public Service Fellows. Read More >>

Enrichment Events
The Jefferson Scholars Foundation hosts a series of enrichment events during the academic year which include opportunities to hear from prominent faculty and alumni. Past speakers have included former astronaut Kathryn C. Thornton, noted civil rights historian Julian Bond, Pulitzer Prize winning poet Rita Dove, former Secretary of State Lawrence Eagleburger, and Archaeology faculty member Jeffrey Hantman. Read More >>