Sapphire Leadership Program
The Sapphire Leadership Academic Program is designed for high-achieving students who have been accepted to the Smeal College of Business and would like to enhance their business school experience. By providing unique academic content, leadership and professional development opportunities, and real-world application of knowledge gained inside the classroom, the Sapphire Leadership Academic Program empowers student leaders to make an impact on business and society.
The 2023 application closed on March 30th at 5:00 pm (ET).
Specialized Curriculum
As a Sapphire student, you will engage in specialized course sections designed to identify, improve, and enhance your leadership qualities. The courses in this curriculum, which are done in small section sizes, encourage interaction with faculty and challenge students to demonstrate both academic and leadership characteristics.
Dedicated Program Adviser
All Sapphire students have a dedicated adviser in the Undergraduate Education Office. Your adviser is responsible for monitoring your progress to ensure completion of all requirements in the Sapphire program.
Access to Business Leaders
A critical component of the Sapphire program is providing unique access to business leaders, through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one discussions. As a Sapphire student, you will have many opportunities to connect with leaders from top companies, which will enhance your own leadership knowledge and abilities.
Collaborative Learning Environment
As part of a cohort of students with similar levels of motivation, Sapphire students benefit from a close-knit community of talent and drive. In addition to small course sections, Sapphire students are encouraged to list the Business and Society House (BASH) as a housing contract preference. In close proximity to the Business Building, residents can take advantage of study groups, mentoring programs, and a variety of social activities with their Sapphire peers.
First-Year Applications
High school students interested in applying to the Sapphire Leadership Academic Program can only do so provided they have been offered admission into the Smeal College of Business at University Park. Students submit their Sapphire application, which was available through March 30th at 5:00 pm (ET) their MyPennState account.
In addition to the application form, students are required to submit two letters of recommendation. Further details can be found on the application site.
If you have any questions, please email: sapphire@smeal.psu.edu.