Dept of State Transatlantic Fellow
Are you deeply interested in international affairs? Are you committed to fostering improved relationships through awareness of shared values between young people irrespective of nationality? Consider applying to spend your summer as a U.S. State Department Ben Franklin Transatlantic Summer Fellow.
“The United States Department of State's Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellows Summer Institute fosters relationships among the younger generation of Europeans and Americans to build strong linkages and an awareness of shared values. The summer Institute engages 45 teenagers from Europe and ten American teenagers (ages 16 - 18) in a four-week U.S.-based exchange program that aims to reinforce the transatlantic relationship. During the Institute, participants will explore transatlantic relations, leadership development, critical thinking, diplomacy, community activism, and the media in order to unite young adults around common goals, using the legacy of Benjamin Franklin as a framework. American youth are eligible to participate in the institute, but do not travel abroad.”
How do I get started? Look at the website for the Ben Franklin Summer Institutes
How do I expand this narrative arc? Want to do more in the realm of international relations, policy and government? Consider pursuing one or more of the following:
In a similar vein, check out the U.S. Department of State Youth Ambassador
Explore the excellent Model UN summer camps and online programs run by Best Delegate
For something you can do from anywhere, show off your knowledge of international relations when you enter the Foreign Service Essay Contest
HOT TIP: This is a prestigious program with a high admissions standard. If you are fortunate enough to be selected it presents an amazing opportunity to see the world through the eyes of teens from other countries. Think about how you can carry forward this experience to promote international comity once you’ve returned to your home community. Don’t miss out on a chance to build a really robust narrative arc.