Three weeks ago, I announced a vision for an unconventional school that I hoped to make a reality this summer in Boulder. Since then, I’ve been thinking big and making plans. And I’m happy to say that Nathaniel Koloc, my partner-in-crime and the co-founder of ReWork, will be joining me to make this dream come true. It’s called The Bold Academy, and we couldn’t be more excited.

Why are we doing this? Because higher education isn’t good enough right now. People go through four years of school and still have no idea what they want to do, let alone how to make that work in a world of financial (and societal) pressure.

That’s why, this summer, we’re bringing 24 change makers age 20 to 35 to Boulder for a transformative life experience designed to give them the perspective and skills they need to build the lives they want, from authentic relationships to meaningful work. Each student will gain years of real-world experience in 4 weeks, while realizing how their natural talents and true passions align with what the world needs. Those who attend should expect to walk away on fire, with a clear vision for their near-term future as well as a plan to make it real. For those looking for inspiring work, they’ll be equipped with the strategy to land their dream job. 

There will be moments of fear, deep connections, triumphs, and breakthroughs. We see lifelong bonds being formed in days, and strengthened over weeks. We envision this experience being the catalyst for the rest of their lives.

This program will be designed for changemakers aged 20-35 who:

• Want to “change the world” and contribute to something bigger than themselves, but aren’t sure how to get started
• Feel unsure about “what’s next” and know deep down that a traditional career path is not for them
• Want to live a meaningful life, feel like the best version of themselves, and be surrounded by those who help advance their true passions and strengths
• Refuse to settle for anything less than realizing their full potential

Here’s what we know already:

• This is happening. 24 young change makers will be coming to Boulder this summer for the experience of a lifetime.
• The curriculum will revolve around action and deep reflection on six themes: self-awareness, integrity, confidence, risk-taking, resourcefulness, and strategy. For each theme, we’ll move from introduction and theory to learning-by-doing and practice to the point of mastery.
• We’ll be using a tuition model which will include the 4-weeks of core programming, living accommodations, (healthy) food, playful adventures, and access to an in-house fitness trainer and nutritionist. Price is $7,500.
• This pilot is an experiment. We want to scale big but we’re going to start small. 

Here’s what we’re still figuring out:

• Living logistics. Participants will be living together. It may be one big house or 4-6 apartments, we aren’t sure.
• The exact dates. July is looking good. Real good.
• We’re hiring 3 people, including an Academy Director, Logistics Coordinator, and Communications Coordinator. Intrigued? Check out the roles and apply now.

More coming soon. Stay tuned. 

(Photo via 365q.)