Young Alumni Academy

Young Alumni Academy
Young Alumni Academy (YAA) is a program for Ohio State alumni 30 and under interested in personal development and deepening their connection with Ohio State and their community as advocates.
YAA empowers young alumni to continue their support of Ohio State as stronger Buckeye leaders and advocates while providing them with the skills they need to be successful — in the workplace and in life. Participants will hear from experts on topics like leadership, advocating for your passion and effective networking and communication, as well as contributing back to your communities through volunteerism. Participants will get to know a new community of Buckeyes, expanding their network and gaining valuable insights.
- All YAA sessions occur in-person, typically on Thursday evenings.
- All alumni of The Ohio State University who are 30 years of age and under are encouraged to apply.
- A tentative schedule (subject to change) includes:
- February 28 – Welcome Event
- March 19 – Session 1 (Leadership)
- April – Community Service Group Opportunity
- April 15 – Session 2 (Conflict Negotiation)
- May 22– Session 3 (Context in Volunteering)
- June 28 – Session 4 and Closing Celebration (Finding and Advocating for Your Passion)
Completion of the program
Participants should plan to commit two to three hours per month to this program and are expected to complete the following:
- attend all virtual sessions
- participate in at least one networking opportunity
- complete required community service
More information will be provided upon acceptance into the program.
How to apply
The YAA application process will open on January 6, 2025 and will close on January 24, 2025.
Applicants accepted to YAA will be notified via email on February 7, 2025.
Application includes contact, education and demographic information, bio, essay question and professional resume.
- Brief bio (max 200 words)
- If you had access to unlimited time, funds or resources, how would you see yourself paying forward in your community? (2,500-character limit)
Participation in YAA requires a one-time investment of $125, which is only paid after an applicant’s acceptance and before the start of the first session. Applicants are encouraged to first check with their employers, as some may cover this cost as part of professional development. Financial assistance is available for those in need.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be invited to join an emeriti group to stay connected with The Ohio State University Alumni Association.
Discover what it is like to be a part of YAA: Hear from a former member in this inspiring video.
“Simple answer – do it. This is a great investment of your time as a recent graduate, providing a platform to learn more about the opportunities that Ohio State has to offer than you were likely ever aware of as a student.” – Bo Tokarski ‘17

Questions?
Contact Carly Wood at wood.1605@osu.edu.