The Our Time Has Come Program

Description:

The Our Time Has Come (OTHC) Program at Syracuse University offers an enriching experience centered on leadership development, cohort engagement, and personal growth. Students become part of a vibrant network of ambitious peers, supported by dedicated alumni and partners who share similar backgrounds and experiences. OTHC is dedicated to increasing academic persistence, retention, and ensuring strong post-graduation outcomes through student-alumni engagement.

Highlights:

  • Leadership Development & Mentorship: Tailored opportunities to grow as leaders through Leadership Seminars, alumni conversations, and guidance.
  • Community Engagement: Active participation in events and cohort meetings that foster connection and collaboration.
  • Career Connections Across Generations: Students engage with alumni at every stage of their professional journey, from early-career professionals to seasoned executives. These interactions offer insights, inspiration, and real-world advice.
  • Professional Networking: Corporate immersions and alumni interactions that expand students’ career horizons.
  • Philanthropic Engagement: Students connect alumni and friends of Syracuse through special events, gaining firsthand insight into the power of giving and the role philanthropy plays in creating opportunity and driving change.
  • Personalized Support: Individualized advising helps students navigate academic and career goals.
  • Scholarship Opportunity: Program participants may be eligible to receive an Our Time Has Come Scholarship, which provides financial support and recognizes academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement.

Selection Criteria

  • Leadership Experience and Potential: Demonstrates initiative and prior leadership experience in academic, extracurricular, or community settings; shows the ability to influence or inspire others; and exhibits strong potential for continued leadership development.
  • Community Engagement: Values collaboration and mentorship, and demonstrates a commitment to building positive, productive relationships with peers, alumni, and the broader community.
  • Communication Skills: Communicates clearly and effectively in both written and verbal formats; is thoughtful, engaging, and able to articulate ideas with purpose; and demonstrates attentive, respectful listening.
  • Program Awareness: Understands the mission and goals of the OTHC Program and articulates alignment with its focus areas.
  • Commitment to Growth: Shows motivation to strengthen leadership abilities and engage in continuous learning.
  • Integrity: Maintains strong academic standing and demonstrates ethical, responsible conduct.

Expectations of OTHC Students:

OTHC promotes academic excellence, leadership development, and community connection. Students are expected to fully engage and participate in all program components.

Active Engagement: Attend all scheduled activities and contribute positively to the learning environment. Including:

  • Monthly Leadership Seminars: Participate in Saturday‑morning seminars featuring TED Talk–style presentations by alumni and industry leaders.
  • Community Meetings: Participate in monthly Friday‑afternoon meetings focused on peer connection, idea‑sharing, and supplemental workshops.
  • Philanthropic and Career Activities: Participate in philanthropic initiatives and career focused opportunities, including corporate immersions and Syracuse University giving campaigns.
  • Individual Guidance Sessions: Meet once per semester with the Assistant Director of Scholarship Programs for personalized support and resource guidance.

 

For more information about the Our Time Has Come Program, email ourtimehascome@syr.edu.

OTHC APPLICATION