NATIONAL COLLEGE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

 

Established in 1980, the National College Leadership Conference (NCLC) is the nation’s premier and longest-running leadership conference and summer camp for Korean American college students and recent graduates.

NCLC empowers the next generation of Korean American leaders by fostering a deeper understanding of cultural identity and history while building a strong foundation in community, mentorship, and professional development.

Over the course of 5 days and 4 nights at Pepperdine University, participants from across the country come together for an immersive experience featuring dynamic panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and meaningful mentorship with an exceptional lineup of speakers. Past speakers span a wide range of fields, including public service, business, entrepreneurship, education, media, arts and entertainment, healthcare, law, and finance.

 

NCLC is designed to deliver a transformative experience with lasting impact:

  • Career exploration, leadership development, and professional training
  • Mentorship and networking
  • Cultural education and community

NCLC 2026 will take place

June 22-26 at Pepperdine University.

APPLY BY JUNE 1

KAC SUMMER INTERNSHIP

As part of its commitment to preparing students for long-term success, NCLC offers select participants a competitive, paid summer internship with KAC.

This exclusive opportunity allows interns to design and lead a meaningful, impact-driven project addressing a timely issue affecting the Korean American community. Interns will gain real world leadership skills, expand their professional network, and make a tangible difference, setting themselves apart in today’s competitive job market.

COST

Applications are FREE. Participation fee upon acceptance is $500 per student.

Full financial aid is available for eligible students. Please email a hardship statement to programs@kacla.org (~500 words).

SUPPORT NCLC

 

Supporting NCLC is a direct investment in the future of Korean American leadership. Your contribution advances the education, empowerment, and development of emerging Korean American leaders in every sector of American society.

With NCLC’s strong retention rate and deeply rooted culture of mentorship, your support extends far beyond a single conference — it helps sustain a thriving, interconnected network of Korean American leaders committed to uplifting one another and giving back to their communities.

All donations are tax-deductible (Tax ID: 95-3823437).

2026 SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES
BECOME A SPONSOR

Application

2026 NCLC applications are NOW OPEN!

 

▶ WHO CAN APPLY?

Korean American students passionate about leadership, community, professional development, and exploring their cultural history & identity:

  • Recent high school graduates entering their first year of college

  • Current college students

  • College students graduating summer 2026

 

▶ HOW TO APPLY

Submit an online application with the following documents:

  1. Responses to two short prompts (250+ words)
  2. Digital copy of your current transcript (unofficial copies accepted)
  3. Resume
  4. Provide TWO (2) professional references

 

▶ COST

Applications are FREE. Participation fee upon acceptance is $500 per student.

Full financial aid is available for eligible students. Please email a hardship statement to programs@kacla.org (~500 words).

 

DEADLINE: JUNE 1, 2026

APPLY NOW

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