Deadline: January 9 and March 9, 2018

Applications are now open for the 2018  Hansen Summer Institute on Leadership and International Cooperation. The Hansen Summer Institute is an exciting international program that provides a unique University-based leadership experience and program in international cooperation. Funded by a generous grant from the Fred J. Hansen Foundation, the Hansen Summer Institute will host its ninth group of young leaders in July 2018 at the University of San Diego School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES).

A primary goal of the program focuses on creating an international community of young scholars who will use their summer experience as a foundation for creating lasting friendships and acquiring common practical understanding of a more peaceful future. Fellows receive hands-on training in team-building, public speaking, negotiation, mediation and working together to solve international problems.

Moreover, they learn to listen actively and to look for common interests and building realistic bridges of cooperation. Classroom training complements local excursions to San Diego attractions such as Sea World, the Zoo,  a 4th of July Independence Day parade and a harbor cruise. Fellows meet and greet academic, political and business leaders to refine their own ideas and skills, while learning about the “American Way of Life.” Students leave San Diego with a “leadership toolbox” they can apply appropriately to their future challenges and endeavors.

Benefits

The Hansen Summer Institute is fully funded by the Fred J. Hansen Foundation. This includes international airfare, room and board and all programmatic costs. If selected, the only cost to participants will be the fees incurred in obtaining a passport, a U.S. visa and spending money.

Eligibility

To participate in the Hansen Summer Institute, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

ALL APPLICANTS:

• Successful applicants must demonstrate leadership potential by having worked outside of class in community service, another public service, or in a non-governmental organization.
• A letter of reference from such a group or organization is required.

NON – US STUDENTS: (from zones of conflict and/or social strife)

• Upper division undergraduate with 2 years of college/university or graduate student with a professional interest in international relations, diplomacy, international economic development or related fields.
• Students must be between the ages of 20- 25 on July 1, 2018.
• Must have demonstrated leadership potential outside of the classroom in the community, nation or region.
• Have an academic adviser verify in writing the candidates English proficiency
• Have a valid international passport with US visa if necessary by the time the program begins
• Preference will be given to those who have never visited the United States, but all qualified students are encouraged to apply.

US STUDENTS: (Students from any university in the United States)

• Upper division undergraduate with 2 years of college/university or graduate student with a professional interest in international relations, diplomacy, international economic development or related fields.
• Students must be between the ages of 20- 25 on July 1, 2018.
• Must have demonstrated leadership potential outside of the classroom in the community, nation or region.

Application

• Complete the online application.
• All applicants must submit two (2) letters of reference (evaluative statements):
  1. from an academic adviser or professor. This person should be able to evaluate your English proficiency and;
  2. from a NGO or community organization with whom you have worked.
• Your application will not be reviewed by the selection committee until we have received the entire, completed application (100% in all sections, including transcripts and letters of reference).
• The selection committee will begin reviewing international student applications in February and results will be emailed to all applicants in mid-March.

Deadlines:

• International Applicants – January 9, 2018
  US Applicants – March 9, 2018

The approximate dates of the 2018 program are June 30 to July 21, 2018. Note that, if selected, you will travel to the United States a few days earlier than the start date. ALL FELLOWS MUST ATTEND THE ENTIRE PROGRAM. No participants will be allowed to arrive late or leave early.

For more information, visit Hansen Summer Institute.