Support EGL: Empowering Future Leaders Globally
By supporting the EGL Student Society, you will better equip EGL students to learn about leadership, professional development, and cross-cultural education.
How Your Contribution Helps
The Engineering Global Leadership (EGL) Student Society stands as a catalyst for multifaceted growth and development, weaving a tapestry of experiences that transcend the conventional. Our impactful events lay the groundwork for cultivating well-rounded leaders, and each one of them became a reality thanks to the generous contributions from last year's donations. Without Giving Blue Day, we wouldn't be able to sustain—let alone expand—these opportunities at the pace our organization is growing. Without Giving Blue Day, we would not be able to sustain these opportunities at the same scale and growing scale as EGL is growing. It is through your generosity that we are able to design an immersive and developmental experience for our students. Learn more below about how your contribution to these events directly impact our students.
Key Programs and Events
Professional Development Chicago Site Visits
- Real-World Insights: Offers students the chance to interact with industry leaders, obtaining firsthand exposure to industry practices and trends. This experience builds essential skills and prepares students for success in various professional arenas.
- Networking with Top Companies: Connects students with firms like JPMorgan Chase, Grainger, and Bain & Company, offering insights into potential careers and corporate cultures.
- Alumni Dinner: Strengthens the EGL community by fostering connections between students and alumni, with 54 members attending last year to build lasting professional relationships.
Jack Naidrich, a current student, shares the importance of the Site Visits:
"This year’s trip once again showcased how an engineering degree combined with the EGL experience, opens doors to diverse and impactful career paths."
Global Bonanza
- Cultural Performances: Showcases captivating performances from various cultural organizations, promoting understanding and appreciation of diverse traditions within our university community.
- Global Cuisine: Attendees enjoy a culinary journey with international cuisines, offering a taste of the world's diverse culinary heritage and encouraging cross-cultural dialogue.
- Leadership Development: Organizing the event allows EGL students to enhance their leadership and teamwork skills, providing hands-on experience in coordinating with diverse groups and managing complex projects.
Felix Liu, a current student, highlights the event's significance:
"Global Bonanza continues to be a cornerstone of EGL’s Global Education pillar: cherishing and amplifying the cultural diversity of the University of Michigan and beyond."
Volunteer Abroad (VA) Program
- Cultural Immersion: Two-week trips offer deep engagement with diverse cultures, domestically or internationally.
- Leadership Growth: Students enhance leadership skills by addressing real-world challenges in diverse settings.
- Community Contribution: Participants support local communities while building strong bonds with fellow EGL students.
Upcoming Trips
This year we will have four transformative trips planned:
- Peru: Immerse in the Amazon to work on wildlife rehabilitation and conservation projects.
- Grenada: Dive to contribute to coral reef restoration efforts.
- Thailand: Support elephant welfare at an ethical sanctuary.
- Montana: Contribute to community development and cultural exchange on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.
VA has continued to grow in size and scale as more students each year have traveled outside the United States to serve and learn from other communities. Last year marked a milestone as we expanded to four trips, reflecting our commitment to impactful global engagement.
- In South Africa, students partnered with Cape RADD for marine conservation, gaining hands-on experience with underwater ecosystems.
- In Hawaii, students worked at Papahana Kuaola, contributing to environmental conservation and immersing themselves in Hawaiian culture.
- In Costa Rica, students collaborated with Reserva Playa Tortuga on turtle conservation, while exploring local communities and nature.
- In Ecuador, students supported La Hesperia Reserve, engaging in ecological projects and cultural activities. Each trip fostered personal growth and environmental stewardship.
A current student, Matthew Sinanis, recounts his experiences:
“Volunteer abroad has been one of the most impactful experiences that I’ve had the privilege of having at the University of Michigan, EGL, and my life in general. The VA experience was incredibly meaningful to me as I was able to form connections with my fellow EGL students and be able to get hands-on experience in environmental conservation efforts. One of the best aspects of this trip was our ability to see how our impact influenced the local community and how we truly benefited their cause before leaving. It was a truly eye opening experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life."
Explore the map below to see our past trip destinations:
Get Inspired
Last Year's VA Videos:
Join Us in Making a Difference!
Your support can help unlock potential and create pivotal experiences for future leaders. Visit Our Website to learn more.
