Economics for Leaders (EFL) is a selective summer program that teaches student leaders how to integrate economics into the process of decision-making in an interactive learning environment.
The goal of EFL is to give promising students the skills to be more effective leaders and to teach them how to employ economic analysis when considering difficult public policy choices. This course focuses on the introduction and application of economic concepts and economic reasoning skills and introduces students to leadership theory. Given the difficult public policy choices facing governments and their citizens around the globe, teaching these skills and knowledge to the next generation of leaders is one of the most important actions we can take now to ensure our future prosperity.
EFL is an unparalleled learning and growing opportunity. 90% of the students who attended the program in 2022 said they would recommend the program to their friends. The program is competitive, with approximately two applicants applying for each available space. College admission officers have commented that students who attend selective pre-college programs, such as Economics for Leaders, make more competitive applicants.
“I continue to support Economics for Leaders for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, every student I send, regardless of personality, interests, or degree of high academic level, returns enlightened and enthusiastic about college. The lessons learned about themselves oftentimes translate into college essays. They gain confidence about their ability to transition to college along with a greater understanding of their leadership style and role in group dynamics.”
– Debra Landesberg, President
My College Resource
Who Can Apply?
Students who are currently sophomores and juniors in high school are eligible for EFL programs in 2023.
Admission
Admission to EFL is competitive, with decisions based on leadership potential, maturity, and the applicant’s vision of their future. Above all, EFL participants are intelligent and articulate students who will benefit from this unique educational experience.
Applications are considered, reviewed, and accepted on a rolling basis. Space is limited at each site, so we encourage students to apply early to increase their chance of admittance to their preferred site. Approximately 25-40 students are accepted at each site, dependent upon specific restrictions on campus. See our Sites & Dates page for more details.
College Credit
Through a partnership with the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (UCCS), two semester hours of optional undergraduate credit are available to students attending EFL. There is an additional fee of $244 for the credits and students who opt to receive credit must complete additional assignments. Click on College Credit for EFL to the right for more information. Details and registration instructions will be included in the orientation information provided to accepted students approximately four weeks before the start of their program.
Program Goals
- Give students the knowledge to understand the economic concepts shaping the global economy
- Foster students’ commitment to continued learning about economics and leadership
- Help students discover their potential as they learn to develop and implement effective leadership skills
- Increase students’ marketable skills of how to work effectively in teams while at a distance
Program Testimonials
Click here to read comments about FTE’s flagship program from both parents and students.