Who we are
We do this by developing college students as cause-driven leaders while connecting campus to community. For over 133 years, the University Y has been the place on the University of Minnesota campus where college students can truly prepare for the world beyond the classroom. Our students become uniquely prepared to lead in a global world and to be socially responsible leaders at home and in the workforce. Through immersive experiences and intentional reflection, our students take on the most pressing challenges facing our communities and deepen their sense of themselves in the process.
How We do it
The UY promotes workforce readiness with all students, creating a pipeline of diverse young talent moving into careers in business, nonprofit, health care, and education. An annual networking event, internships, and workforce readiness seminars prepare college students for the real world of work. Students lead the University Y! From our board to program leadership to innovation of new programs, everything we do at the UY is built around college students leading in volunteer and work-study leadership positions. Our students work in teams to build individual and group capacity to impact the community positively.
Our results
UY student participants surveyed indicated that their experience at the UY overall offers them opportunities to:
- Engage, connect, and contribute within a diverse and inclusive environment
- Develop their skills more than other student organizations on campus
- Be workforce ready, especially in the areas of leadership, teamwork/collaboration, appreciation for diversity, and oral communication