Enrichment Experiences

Park Scholars are selected, in part, because of their leadership potential and commitment to service. During their four years at NC State, they learn to apply modern leadership theories and they frequently undertake official roles within the university and local community. Each class of Park Scholars participates in a series of enrichment experiences intended to advance their personal and professional development in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Park Scholars serve on committees to plan and execute many of these experiences, with the assistance of Park Faculty Scholars and staff.

Freshman Retreat

Prior to the start of the academic year, the incoming class of Park Scholars participates in a retreat typically held in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Park Faculty Scholars facilitate discussions on a shared reading experience. Upperclassmen Park Scholars help small groups of freshmen prepare to take full advantage of the opportunities afforded by the Park Scholarships program and NC State. The class also participates in challenges to hone teamwork and communication skills.  

Freshman Seminar (Park 101)

A weekly Freshman Seminar provides students valuable connections with all current Park Faculty Scholars, as well as with the diverse resources available at NC State. This year, students are honing their professional skills and delving into topics ranging from mental wellness to managing imposter syndrome, to best practices for being an engaged voter. Guest speakers in the past included the NC Department of Public Safety’s Director of Emergency Management Michael Sprayberry and NC State Chancellor Randy Woodson.  

Learning Lab I

Learning Lab I, an annual experience designed and implemented by freshman Park Scholars, affords students insight into leadership through the lens of a challenge currently facing North Carolina. The Class of 2023 explored how leaders are handling the affordable housing crisis and the Class of 2024 examined how leaders work together to address complex health care challenges. The Class of 2025 focused on the foster care system and examine diverse ways leaders are responding to child welfare challenges affecting North Carolina. The Class of 2026 will focus on homelessness and housing insecurity in North Carolina.

Learning Lab II

The Learning Lab II field experience allows students to develop a critical understanding of national and global issues by interacting with leaders immersed in these issues. The Class of 2022 traveled to Washington, D.C. to examine cross-disciplinary approaches within the United States to mass incarceration reform. The Class of 2023 and the Class of 2024 analyzed the U.S. education system and learned how leaders are implementing policies to improve equity and access to education at all levels. The Class of 2025 traveled to Washington, D.C. to learn about national leadership through the lens of the United States immigration system.

Leadership Academy

The Leadership Academy is a comprehensive, four-year program through which Park Scholars gain insight into theories and practical applications of leadership and develop a deeper understanding of their own leadership style.  

Senior Retreat

The senior retreat is one of the culminating events during the final year of the Park Scholarships experience. The experience provides class members with a unique opportunity to reflect on their time in the Park Scholarships program and at NC State while establishing priorities for the future.