2024 Take II | Important Information

Important Application Dates & Deadlines

December 1, 2023

Application Opens

March 1, 2024

Decision Day for Priority Applicants

April 15, 2024

Registration Deadline

Applications Are Open!

We are still accepting applications for the 2024 Shelton Challenge programs! Please note, students who applied by the priority deadline of February 15 will receive notification of their admission status by March 1. Applications received after the priority deadline of February 15 will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all sessions are full. Once sessions are full, students will be placed on a waitlist.

Once admitted into the program, students will receive registration information to reserve their spot. Registration is due by April 15.

About Take II

Building upon the foundation set during the first year of the Shelton Challenge program, the Shelton Challenge Take II is ideal for students desiring to deepen their leadership effectiveness. Participants in this five-day summer experience strengthen their skills in teamwork, collaboration, and project management. Students are placed in hands-on leadership roles and participate in 360-degree evaluations with mentors.

Take II Eligibility

To participate in Take II, applicants:

  • Rising 10th-12th Grade Students
  • Must have successful completed the Shelton Challenge previously. 
  • Are emerging leaders with a commitment to learning and self-improvement. 

Questions regarding eligibility? Please reach out to us at sheltonchallenge@ncsu.edu.

Cost of Attendance

$800 per student.

This fee includes the student’s lodging, meals, activities, instruction, and learning materials for the week.

Financial Support

Students are able to indicate in their Take II application if the student’s attendance is dependent upon receiving financial assistance. If a student indicates that they are interested in financial assistance they will receive an email with a link to a form.

When completing the application, students will be asked to provide the following:

Application Process and Important Dates

In order to submit an application for the Shelton Challenge, you will need the provide the following:

  • Name and other pertinent information about the applicant
  • Current unweighted GPA 
  • Availability and preference for programs with multiple offerings
  • Essay question responses
  • Two (2) letters of recommendation saved as a .pdf file and the recommender’s contact information (NOTE: Peer Leaders and Take 2 applicants will only need one (1) letter)
  • Required ONLY if requesting financial assistance: A brief description of any circumstances surrounding the request

High school students are encouraged to independently complete their applications. While proofreading or occasional assistance from others is permitted, students should demonstrate their commitment to leadership by maintaining active ownership of the process. 

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between the Red Hat Shelton Challenge and Take II?

During the first year, participants in the Red Hat Shelton Challenge learn foundational skills such as communication, professional ethics, and social responsibility as leaders through mentoring, self-reflection, and shared discovery. The curriculum focuses on leading through self-discovery. The second year is designed to equip participants to build skills necessary to manage team projects and the challenges team’s face such as conflict resolution, time management, and decision making. This curriculum focuses on leading and navigating group dynamics.

Will I be able to contact my student while they are at Take II?

Yes. While we recommend allowing your student to immerse themselves in the experience, we understand that some circumstance may require you to be in contact with the student. Students are encouraged to put their phones away during class sessions. So an emergency number will be provided to all parents to contact Take II administration should the parent need to contact their child immediately.

What happens if I am placed on a waitlist for the Take II?

If you are placed on a waitlist, you will be notified in late Spring if a spot opens up. If you receive notification that a spot has opened up, you can register to attend.

Will I be able to contact my student while they are at Take II?

Yes. While we recommend allowing your student to immerse themselves in the experience, we understand that some circumstance may require you to be in contact with the student. Students are encouraged to put their phones away during class sessions. So an emergency number will be provided to all parents to contact Take II administration should the parent need to contact their child immediately.

What is the difference between the Shelton Challenge and the Shelton Challenge: Take II?

The Shelton Challenge: Take II is for students who have previously completed the Shelton Challenge and are interested in continuing the leadership development journey.