Prepare for College. Train for Leadership. Get Ahead at PALS at Florida International University (FIU).

Theme: Social-Emotional Leadership for College and Life Success

Miami, Florida

Date: Sun, July 12 – Sun, July 19

EARN 50 SERVICE HOURS

AWARDS

Join 98% of participants who say PALS changed their lives!

Early Bird Ends March 31st

About PALS at Florida International University

Theme: Social-Emotional Leadership for College and Life Success

Lead with Confidence. Master College Life. Excel in the Real World.

At PALS at Florida International University (FIU), you’ll gain the skills, emotional intelligence, and leadership abilities needed to thrive in college, excel in your career, and navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

For eight days, you won’t just learn about leadership—you’ll live it. Stay in dorms, eat in dining halls, and experience college life firsthand while developing the resilience, adaptability, and self-leadership skills that set top students and future leaders apart.

Why PALS at FIU?

Leadership for the Real World
Success isn’t just about academics—it’s about how you lead, communicate, and problem-solve. Through hands-on challenges, mentorship, and interactive workshops, you’ll master:

Emotional Intelligence & Self-Leadership – Stay confident under pressure and make smart decisions.
Conflict Resolution & Communication – Navigate tough conversations and work effectively in teams.
College & Career Readiness – Build time management, networking, and self-advocacy skills.

A Program That Stands Out
Unlike traditional leadership programs, PALS immerses you in real-world scenarios so you don’t just learn—you practice leadership in action.

What Makes PALS at FIU Different?

Learn by Doing – Step into leadership roles through simulations and group challenges.
One-on-One Coaching – Get personalized mentorship to strengthen your unique strengths.
Connect & Grow – Work with students from varied backgrounds and perspectives, gaining leadership experience in a global setting.
Confidence That Lasts – Walk away ready to take on college, careers, and life with a bold, fearless mindset.

“PALS taught me that leadership isn’t about being the smartest—it’s about leading with empathy and taking action.” – PALS 2024 Participant

Mark Your Calendar

Early Bird Ends March 31st

$ 1320

App Fee: $50 + Tuition & Housing: $970 + Meals: $300 = $1,320

Regular Price

$ 1520

App Fee: $50 + Tuition & Housing: $1170 + Meals: $300 = $1,520

July 12-19 | 50 Service Hours

Safety and Supervision

Housing

FIU Housing Website

Goals for PALS at FlU

Lead with Purpose. Succeed with Confidence.

Program Goals

Enhance Personal Empowerment and Mental Wellness

PALS at FIU equips students with the tools to build resilience, boost self-awareness, and prioritize their mental well-being, fostering a foundation for lifelong success.

Bridge Divides Through Empathy and Action

By focusing on empathy-based leadership, students learn to connect across differences, lead with compassion, and take meaningful actions that bring people together.

Expose Students to Real-Life College Experiences

From staying in dorms to attending college-prep workshops, PALS at FIU provides students with an authentic taste of college life, helping them feel confident and prepared for their next steps.

Create a Supportive and Inclusive Environment

We foster a safe, welcoming space where students from all backgrounds feel valued, supported, and encouraged to be their authentic selves.

Foster Effective Communication and Peer Interaction

Participants build essential communication skills, learning how to resolve conflicts, collaborate effectively, and engage in meaningful conversations with peers and mentors.

Advance Leadership and Social-Emotional Learning

Through hands-on activities and interactive workshops, students enhance their leadership abilities and develop critical social-emotional skills to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

Workshops Based on Theme.

Social-Emotional Leadership for College and Life Success

Social-Emotional Leadership & Life Skills

Emotional Intelligence & Self-Awareness
Conflict Resolution & Mediation Skills
In Her Shoes: Empathy and Perspective-Taking
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships
Manifesting Success with SMART Goals
Leadership, Ethics & Integrity
Self-Advocacy & Boundary Setting
Handling Difficult Conversations with Confidence
Stress Management & Building Resilience
Mental Wellness & Self-Care Practices
Navigating Change & Uncertainty

Modern Challenges & Digital Awareness

College & Career Preparedness

Financial Aid for College
College and Student Life Panel
Public Speaking and Professional Communication
Resume Writing / LinkedIn
Time Management & Productivity
Interview Skills & Personal Branding

Activities and Evening Socials

Art therapy
Outdoor team-building
Pool day
Jeopardy
Themed banquet
Vision board creation
Self-defense
Karaoke
Movie night
Talent show
Game night
Outdoor sports (volleyball and basketball)

PALS at FIU 2024 Program Impact and Testimonials

Rated their experience with speakers, mentors, and leaders as 4 or 5

0 %

Rated the program’s impact on their leadership skills as 4 or 5

0 %

Felt supported in making friends and building social connections

0 %

Reported increased confidence in their conflict resolution abilities

0 %

4.52 out of 5

Average Satisfaction Rating

What was the most valuable skill or lesson you learned during PALS at FIU?

I learned the hidden skills of being a leader. I used to think that being a leader meant being the smartest in the room or the most experienced one. I thought that is how a leader sets an example. But coming to PALS with all my training I saw myself being taught on how to approach delegates who are sitting alone or how to strike conversation with someone that having a hard time interacting. PALS showed me that leader set the example by being upstanders in their community. I’ve gained so much empathy and not just from the trainings but also from the team that I work with.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned at this program was the importance of communication. People cannot read minds, and unfortunately sometimes cannot read body language, so sometimes we have to verbally express ourselves to get through an obstacle.

The most valuable skill I learned was how to be a leader in multiple situations and how to grasp my audiences attention. There were multiple ways I could be a good leader without stepping over others and disregarding their feelings

I feel like this program has really helped shape how I view things. After attending PALS I noticed the way I view things became clearer. I noticed I started looking at issues from all perspectives. PALS taught me to be accepting and understanding when it comes to the problems in our country and world.

FIU Pals taught me that having a sense of community with people who have similar goals as I do, provides me with a support system like no other. Nothing compares to the way that I felt when I was surrounded not only by kids who cared about being there but also by Junior and Senior Councliors that supported me throughout the experience even when I wasn’t doing my best.

How did PALS at FIU influence your thoughts about your future career or education?

it influenced my thoughts and inspired me even more by giving me a clear understanding on how tne entire process is and showing me what i should prepare and what to expect

It helped me understand the process of getting into college, and gave me some things to consider. I understand more about letters of recommendation and resumes than beforehand.

This program helped me realize that there are steps that I can take to get to where I want in life. PALS helped prepare me for what’s ahead, as well as what to expect. After listening in all of the college planning lectures, I am aiming high. I feel like with this new knowledge I have gained I am more prepared than ever and I want to do better than ever.

This program made me realize that my dreams of creating a theatre program for special needs children that also gets highschool and college volunteers who share my passion for creating an inclusive and supportive community is not far fetched. I was very impressed by the organization of this program and how well prepared the councilors were and I am very thankful for that.

I learned how to communicate my feelings in a way that’s helpful to me and everyone around me. I’ve also learned some helpful tips about college applications/college life as well!’

Overall, would you recommend PALS at FIU to other youth?

Yes I would, and I have. Because I truly felt like this program benefited me in ways I would have never imagined.

Yes because it really is beneficial for leadership skills, confidence, defining your brand, and making amazing friends.

I would definitely recommend this program to other youth because I learned a ton about college applications, how to better prepare for college, useful skills, and had unique experiences at the program.

Yes, I would. The entire experience was enjoyable and educational. It helped me make friends, open up, feel comfortable, and I learned things I would've never had the chance to without the program.

I would absolutely recommend this program to everyone I know. This has to be one of the best programs I’ve ever been apart of and it has made me better as a person.

Why Choose PALS at FIU

Learn to lead with confidence, compassion, and self-awareness.

Below, you’ll find just a few highlights of what makes PALS at FIU special. Want more details or have questions? We’re here to help! Join an upcoming info session to learn exactly why PALS might be your best decision this year.

Empathy-Based Leadership

Learn to lead with confidence, compassion, and self-awareness.

“PALS taught me that leadership isn’t about being the smartest in the room but about connecting with people and being an upstander in the community.” 2024 Participant

Social-Emotional Growth

Build emotional resilience and learn strategies for managing stress, resolving conflicts, and fostering meaningful relationships.

“The mental health circle showed me how much complex feelings go on in everyone’s heads.” 2024 Participant

College and Career Preparation

Gain practical skills in college applications, financial aid, and professional communication.

“PALS helped me prepare for what’s ahead. I feel more confident than ever and ready to achieve my goals.” 2024 Participant

Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Workshops and hands-on projects challenge participants to think creatively and develop innovative solutions to real-world issues.

"The activities at PALS taught me how to approach problems from different angles and collaborate effectively to find solutions.” 2024 Participant

Real-World Leadership Opportunities

Engage in meaningful service projects like creating Public Service Announcements (PSAs) or personalized bookmarks for underserved communities. These projects allow participants to apply their leadership skills while making a tangible impact.

“The PSA project taught me how teamwork and creativity can drive awareness and create real change.” 2024 Participant

Building Self-Confidence

PALS creates a supportive environment that helps students step out of their comfort zones and grow their confidence.

“Before PALS, I was hesitant to speak up in groups. Now I feel confident sharing my ideas and leading discussions.” 2024 Participant

Earn 50 Service Hours + Award Opportunity

At PALS, community service is more than just a requirement—it’s an opportunity to create meaningful change, develop leadership skills, and foster a sense of social responsibility. Each year, PALS participants engage in impactful service projects designed to address real-world issues and leave a lasting impact on their communities.

Option 1: Public Service Announcements (PSAs)

Participants research critical social issues like AI ethics, gun violence, and misinformation, creating impactful PSAs to raise awareness and inspire action.

This project blends creativity and advocacy

“Our PSA on AI ethics taught me the importance of addressing complex social issues with innovation and compassion.”

Option 2: Community Needs Assessment and Proposal

Objective: Students identify pressing issues in the local community and propose actionable solutions.

Activities:

Conduct surveys or interviews with community members to understand their needs.
Analyze the findings and prioritize issues such as housing, education, or healthcare access.
Present a written report or pitch to local nonprofits or government officials with recommended solutions.
Leadership Skills: Research, data analysis, and civic engagement.

Make a Difference Through Literacy: “Mark My Words: Bookmarks for Bright Futures”

At PALS at FIU, you won’t just learn leadership—you’ll put it into action. Through our “Mark My Words: Bookmarks for Bright Futures” service project, you’ll use creativity to promote literacy and inspire young readers in Title I elementary schools.

During this project, you’ll design and personalize bookmarks with motivational messages, encouraging students to develop a love for reading. These bookmarks will be donated to classrooms with limited access to books and literacy resources.

Why This Project Matters

You’ll help elementary students build confidence in their reading skills.
You’ll be part of a legacy of over 5,000 bookmarks donated by PALS participants.
You’ll earn service hours while seeing firsthand how small acts of kindness make a big impact.

Awards & Recognition

You could be an honoree…

Celebrate your achievements at the PALS Graduation Ceremony with a Certificate of Completion

Additional Awards

Emerging Leader Award

Earn the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA)

Collaborative Champion Award

Bridge Builder Award

Trailblazer Award

Catalyst for Change Award

Phoenix Award

Media Gallery

Browse through videos and images from PALS at Florida Atlantic University

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to receive an acceptance/response for my application?

It typically takes 1-2 weeks to receive an acceptance or response after submitting your application. If you have not heard back within this timeframe, please reach out to us at pals@nveee.org for assistance.

Where do participants stay during PALS?

Participants and staff are housed in campus dormitories with separate floors by sex. Roommate assignments are based on age and sex, and roommate requests can be made during registration.

Are participants allowed to leave campus during the program?

No, participants must remain on campus throughout the program and are not allowed guests from outside the program.

Will I have free time during PALS?

Yes, while the schedule is structured, students will have supervised free time to relax, reflect, and socialize with peers. Quiet zones are also available for those who need time to decompress.

Refund Policy

Full refund (minus fees) until April 1
50% refund until April 30
No refund within 30 days of the event