eMerge helps students become leaders in the optiMize community.
optiMize is first and foremost a community. Together, we co-create the programs and courses that optiMize offers. To build and sustain a community like this requires strong and dedicated leadership—and in the optiMize community, that role is largely student-led.
optiMize is a partnership between a student organization and full-time professional staff. eMerge is the leadership development program for student leaders to run all optiMize programs collaboratively with staff.
Our Support Team is the place for new students to join eMerge and begin their path toward leadership position in the optiMize team. As part of Support Team, you can expect to attend a weekly leadership development training session and receive direct mentorship from optiMize staff, as well as join bi-weekly discussions with SIC participants and mentors.
While all of us share the goal of cultivating community, there are plenty of opportunities to specialize. Some specific roles are listed below.
If you care about social innovation, community organizing, and servant leadership, this is the place for you.
eMerge is one of the most exciting rising facets of optiMize, providing an unparalleled opportunity to hone our leadership skills as a team through thoughtful reflection, engaging exercises, and intentional community building
David Hargitt, optiMize Leadership Team
As part of the optiMize Support Team, you will:
Cultivate an inspiring community of people who care about changing the world!
Organize the optiMize Social Innovation Challenge
Develop your skills and perspectives as a community leader
Provide Servant Leadership
Attend weekly Support Team meetings and optiMize events
As you progress in the eMerge program, you’ll:
Develop an understanding of how optiMize functions and what roles are available
Begin to focus on a specific project or role area
Have the opportunity to apply for a paid Leadership Team position
Or elect to return to the volunteer Support Team for another year and serve as a leader in the group
Some roles in the optiMize team include:
Recruitment & Promotion Community Management Events & Logistics
Storytelling Graphic Design & Illustration Mentorship
Curriculum Participant Experience Fundraising