The Learning to Lead (L2L) Program at Imperial Valley College is a powerful opportunity for students pursuing careers
in agriculture. Supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture NEXTGEN Grant, this multi-year initiative provides financial support, paid internships, leadership
training, and transfer pathways to help students become future leaders in the agricultural
industry. Learning to Lead Simple Outline
The Learning to Lead (L2L) Program at Imperial Valley College is a powerful opportunity for students pursuing careers
in agriculture. Supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture NEXTGEN Grant, this multi-year initiative provides financial support, paid internships, leadership
training, and transfer pathways to help students become future leaders in the agricultural
industry. Learning to Lead Simple Outline
What is Learning to Lead?
L2L is a five-year, USDA-funded program designed to give IVC agriculture students
a direct pathway into high-demand careers. Through academic support, real-world experience,
and transfer partnerships, students build skills that prepare them to succeed in California’s
evolving agricultural workforce. Learning to Lead Simple Outline
Program Benefits for Students
Transfer Scholarships
L2L offers generous financial support for students who transfer to partner universities:
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Up to $30,000 in transfer scholarships ($15,000 per year for two years) for students who transfer to:
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University of Arizona–Yuma
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CSU Monterey Bay
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Hartnell College (pathway support) Learning to Lead Simple Outline
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Up to $5,200 internship stipend for students who transfer into non-partner programs such as Cal Poly, UC Davis, or
SDSU. Learning to Lead Simple Outline
Paid Internships
Students can complete hands-on, paid internship experiences aligned with their academic
and career goals:
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$1,200 paid internship stipend upon completing 75 internship hours
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Partner sites include USDA, UC Agriculture & Natural Resources, UC Cooperative Extension,
IV Food Bank, and local agriculture employers. Learning to Lead Simple Outline
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Internship slots expand each year (10–50 positions annually through 2028). Learning
to Lead Simple Outline
Leadership & Professional Development
Students gain access to leadership conferences and academic experiences, such as:
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HACU ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute
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MANRRS Conference
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Campus tours and networking opportunities with partner universities
These experiences help students explore career options and build professional confidence.
Learning to Lead Simple Outline
Student Support Services
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Dedicated IVC counselors, advisors, and success specialists
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Support from university-level advisors after transfer
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Monthly academic and career workshops
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Guidance through the transfer and scholarship application process Learning to Lead
Simple Outline
Emergency Scholarships
Students facing unexpected hardships—such as car repairs, job loss, or financial emergencies—may
qualify for up to $2,000 in emergency grant support. Learning to Lead Simple Outlin
Transfer Pathways
The L2L Program supports students who plan to continue their studies at:
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University of Arizona–Yuma (Ag Systems Management, Sustainable Plant Systems, Biosystems Engineering/Precision
Agriculture, Food Safety)
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California State University Monterey Bay
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Additional transfer support is provided for students moving into agriculture programs
at other four-year universities. Learning to Lead Simple Outline
Who Is Eligible?
To join the Learning to Lead Program, students must:
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Declare Agriculture Plant Science or Agriculture Business as their major
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Commit to academic progress toward program completion
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Attend program meetings, workshops, and activities
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Participate in internship or work-based learning experiences Learning to Lead Simple
Outline
Why Choose Agriculture at IVC?
The agricultural industry is rapidly growing and transforming—creating demand for
skilled, educated professionals in plant science, business, technology, and sustainable
food systems. L2L helps IVC students gain the training, guidance, and real-world experience
needed to step confidently into these roles. Learning to Lead Simple Outline
Apply Today!
IVC students can begin the Learning to Lead journey by completing the program application.
Have questions or want help getting started? Contact:
Richard Luna, M.A. Ed.Student Success SpecialistEconomic & Workforce DevelopmentImperial Valley College📞 (760) 355-6161📧 richard.luna@imperial.edu
