Are you ready to lead meaningful environmental change? IonE’s undergraduate cohort programs give you the opportunity to take action – no matter your major.
As part of a cohort, you will connect with peers, learn from mentors and apply what you learn through real projects. Whatever your sustainability interest is, there’s a pathway for you.
From Interest to Impact
Choose the cohort model that aligns with your goals and interests.
IonE Undergraduate Leaders
Ready to team up to make a change? Your IonE Undergraduate Leaders team will work with a community partner to tackle sustainability and equity challenges in Minnesota communities.
Best for students who:
- Want to collaboratively lead sustainability projects
- Care about making a difference in the community
- Value learning from diverse perspectives
Clean Energy Leaders
As a Clean Energy Leader, you’ll dive into how energy systems work – and how to transform them. You’ll complete an internship and design an applied project focused on climate solutions.
Best for students who:
- Are curious about clean energy and climate-focused careers
- Want hands-on experience in the climate space
- Care about energy transition and real-world climate solutions
Why Join a Cohort Program at IonE?
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Built-In Community
No matter which program you choose, you’ll be alongside peers who share your passion. Cohorts create lasting academic, professional and personal connections and spaces to share your questions, thoughts and experiences.
You’ll move with a small group of students together through a shared learning experience. At IonE, cohorts build environmental leadership skills through real-world projects, mentorship and applied learning.
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Real-World Experience
Every cohort program at IonE includes applied work. Whether you work at an internship or lead a community project, you’ll graduate with more than knowledge — you’ll graduate with experience too.
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Mentorship & Professional Networks
Cohorts give you the opportunity to connect with more than those in your major. Connect with IonE staff, faculty, alumni, students and professionals working across UMN campuses and sustainability fields.
By enrolling in a cohort program, you’ll join the IonE community. You collaborate, build relationships and develop practical skills that prepare you to lead sustainability efforts on campus, in the community and in your future career. And once you pass through the program, you’ll get to pass that on to future groups.
Finding Hope Through Action
When global issues feel too big to tackle alone, real change starts with one step – and a community beside you.
The IonE Undergraduate Leaders Program was a phenomenal experience where I learned so much. Before the program, it was easy to feel overwhelmed by global systemic issues, but from meetings with my cohort and working with the wonderful nonprofit Health Equity Northland, I felt genuine hope that I could enact meaningful change.
Time Commitments
These programs are designed to be meaningful and manageable alongside your coursework. Each program includes regular cohort meetings, applied work outside the classroom and collaborative projects.
| Program Requirement | IonE Undergraduate Leaders | Clean Energy Leaders |
|---|---|---|
| Program Length | October – April | January – December (including summer) |
| Cohort Meetings | 12–13 cohort meetings while class is in session | Bi-weekly meetings throughout the year |
| Hands-On Work | ~ 100 hours community-based project work | Spring course + 200-hour summer internship + fall action project |
Cohort Programs FAQ
You can find detailed expectations as you learn more about each program. IonE Undergraduate Leaders | Clean Energy Leaders
Questions?
Have a question or need more information? We’re here to help you understand your options and find the right fit.