Michigan Indian Leadership Program

The Michigan Indian Leadership Program (MILP) is a one-week indigenized summer experience co-sponsored by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) and the Office of the Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education at MSU.

The Michigan Indian Leadership Program will be held July 13-18, 2025. Applications are due April 11, 2025. To apply, find the link to the online form in the box below. The additional forms you need, including the Program Handbook, Authorization for Medical Treatment, Pickup/Drop-off/Commuter Permission Form are linked there as well.

MILP Application Form

What is MILP?

MILP is designed to give Native American youth in grades 8-11 the opportunity to learn about college, experience college life on the university campus and explore the many exciting educational opportunities available in the agricultural, food sciences, natural resources and related fields.

Although the program is not limited to Native American youth, the program content is based on issues of relevance to Native American students. Every effort is made to indigenize as much of the program content as we can.

Who participates in MILP?

MILP is designed primarily for Native American youth in grades 8-11 and other students with a strong interest and involvement in Native American culture and community.

All are welcome and shall receive equal opportunity to participate or apply.

What will I do as a MILP participant?

You will participate in demonstrations, tours and other hands on activities designed to give a sampling of what the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources has to offer. You will also participate in a number of other educational, cultural and social activities. 

Evening activities include social time, cultural presentations and traditional arts such as black ash basket making, beadwork, indigenous games or porcupine quill work. 

MILP participants live on campus in university dorm rooms and eat meals in the dining hall to get a feel for what college life is like. Like many college students on campus, you will do lots of walking every day.

How much does it cost?

Students participate in MILP free of charge. The program is supported by CANR, the Office of the Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education and a number of other public and private agencies and corporations. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation to and from the MSU campus.

When does the program begin?

Program Dates: July 13 - 18, 2025

Application Deadline: April 11, 2025

Late applications will be considered on a space available basis or put on a waiting list.

How do I apply for MILP? 

MILP Application Form

To apply, participants complete the online application. It is your responsibility to ensure your application is complete before April 11, 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For questions or more information contact Stephanie Chau at chaus@msu.edu.

1. Completed MILP application
2. Two essays
3. Transcript/grades
4. Recommendation form

Statement for Disability Inclusion

Michigan State University is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, service and activities. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by submitting requests with your application by April 11, 2025. More information is available through the MSU Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities.