The Bush Center

International Student Leadership Program

ISLP Overview

In a world where college admittance only becomes more competitive, distinguish yourself by gaining a global understanding of the leadership qualities needed to succeed and immediately elevate your potential to surpass even your own expectations.

The International Student Leadership Program brings together future leaders through the study of the world’s most impactful leaders and how they accomplished their life’s work. You will conduct case studies, cultural analysis, and develop your own leadership philosophy so you can walk into any scenario with confidence.

Breaking Into Leadership

Due to COVID-19 and travel restrictions, we are honored to introduce our online leadership course, Breaking into Leadership.

This innovative and inspiring 12-week course is designed for students in grades eight through twelfth. Participants will need a form of a personal computer, internet access, pen, and paper and/or notebook.

Graduates of our online edition will earn a certificate of completion through The George and Barbara Bush Center for Scholars and Leaders.

The program introduces and trains college-bound students in four critical domains of leadership: Personal, Interpersonal, Managerial, and Organizational. Graduates of this program will gain both leadership skills and a broad global understanding of what it takes to lead organizations well.

For further information or questions on how to enroll, please contact Leadership Instructor Jenny Honeck.

Future Plans

As soon as our global circumstances allow, we will offer a three-week in-person course that gives you access to major industry leaders, travel through southeast Texas, and the practice of English as a second language within the warm, welcoming Texas culture of host families.

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Future In-Person Course Details
In addition to the benefits provided through Breaking into Leadership, participants of our future in-person course will receive guidance on college essay writing, learn how to apply to American universities, and build cross-cultural friendships with a host American family and their children.

In-person course activities plan to include:
- Participate in dynamic workshops to build effective leadership skills
- Spend time with industry leaders focusing on strategic planning and implementation within their organizations
- Students receive training on how to apply to American universities and tour Rice University and the University of Texas at Austin
- Receive College Counseling to include College Essay Development Training and Application Assistance
- Study in American classrooms with American students
- Experience Texas high school culture by attending classes, arts, and sporting events with American students
When applying to the future in-person course, we will ask you to reference eligibility details, and included versus not included details below:

Eligibility Requirements
- Students applying to this program must be 14-18 years of age, possess a strong academic record, demonstrate proficient oral and written English, and have well-developed interests in activities and hobbies outside of school
What is planned to be included:
- Tuition and Study Materials
- Host Family Housing
- 3 Meals Daily
- Program-Related Transportation
- Housing at the Ranch
- Cultural and Recreation Activities
What is planned to not be included:
- Tourist Visa Application Fee
- Medical Insurance
- Airfare
- Personal Shopping and Expenses

Quick Links

About Our Program

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What is ISLP?
Breaking into Leadership Online Program Goals
- Build leadership skills that will last a lifetime
- Receive a certificate of Leadership
- Gain experience, confidence, and effectiveness in communicating in English
Eligibility Requirements
Students applying to this program must be 14-18 years of age, possess a strong academic record, demonstrate proficient oral and written English, and have well-developed interests in activities and hobbies outside of school.
What is the cost?

Our Breaking into Leadership online course is $600 per student. Details of future in-person programs and their cost will be provided when available.
What Can I Expect from ISLP?
- Participate in dynamic workshops to build effective leadership skills.
- Engage in collaborative teamwork by constructing action plans, practicing peer mediation and negotiation, and project management.
- Spend time with industry leaders focusing on strategic planning and implementation within their organizations.
- Gain a deeper understanding of industries such as medicine, space exploration, transportation, energy, science, sports and arts, government, and business through project-based exploration.
How Do I Apply?

Our Breaking into Leadership online course enrollment deadline is Monday, January 10. To be considered for participation in the International Student Leadership Program, complete the online application available by clicking here and submit one teacher recommendation letter from a current teacher.

Application and recommendation are to be emailed to Leadership Instructor Jenny Honeck.

When these items have been received, the application of all candidates will be reviewed and you will be contacted with additional information.

*Application details of future in-person programs will be provided when available.