2024 Call for Applications - Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI)

 

2024 Call for Applications - Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI)

Open from October 6 – November 5, 2023

1. SUSI Student Leaders – Comparative Public Policymaking

2. SUSI Madeleine K. Albright Young Women Leaders – Public Policy

Program Description:

Student Leaders – Comparative Public Policymaking (male and female applicants)

The University of Massachusetts Amherst will host the SUSI for Student Leaders from Pakistan on Comparative Public Policymaking. This program aims to explore issues related to public policy and democracy in the United States, drawing comparisons with the policies of Pakistan. The academic curriculum will delve into policymaking processes at the federal, state, and local government levels in the U.S. and provide insights into American institutions. To enrich the learning experience, the Institute will focus on sub-topics such as the importance of diversity in policymaking, civil rights and protections, food security, environmental policy, immigration, education, and leadership. Academic sessions will be complemented by hands-on workshops, case studies, simulations, presentations, leadership activities, community service, interactions with elected officials, and engagement with local communities. To foster cross-cultural interaction, approximately ten (10) American students will join the academic program, promoting collaboration between Pakistani and American students. The Institute will encourage participants to develop innovative plans for active citizenship in their respective communities. Activities will include an election simulation, digital storytelling workshops, and visits to local community centers and food banks. If circumstances permit, the SUSI will feature a one-week integrated study tour to Boston, Massachusetts; New York City, New York; Washington, D.C.; and Richmond, Virginia.

 

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Madeleine K. Albright Young Women Leaders – Public Policy (female applicants only)

This program is exclusively for undergraduate female students and will be hosted by the University of Kansas. The Albright Young Women Leaders Program aims to enhance participants' understanding of U.S. democratic principles, society, culture, values, and institutions while honing leadership skills in areas such as critical thinking, communication, decision-making, and management. The curriculum will encompass American historical events as well as contemporary American life, including ongoing political, social, and economic discussions in a diverse society. Participants will explore the impact of American government policies, private sector practices, and socio-cultural norms and values on women, with a focus on Public Policy. Key themes include democracy and citizen engagement, encompassing freedom of expression, rule of law, civil rights, and protections. The program will also delve into topics such as women in public service, the roles of government, private sector, civil society, and media in policymaking, and public policy as it relates to education, public health, economics, technology, privacy, diversity, and inclusion. Program components may include a visit to St. Louis, Missouri, a panel discussion with women leaders at Boeing, a tour of the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka, and a self-defense course.

 

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NOTE:

Participants who have previously attended SUSIs or the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD), whether virtually or in person, and are now considered SUSI or UGRAD alumni are not eligible for participation.

The 2024 SUSI summer programs are expected to be conducted in person at the host institutions, the University of Massachusetts for the Student Leaders – Comparative Public Policymaking program, and the University of Kansas for the Madeleine K. Albright Young Women Leaders – Public Policy program. However, if conditions do not permit, the programs may be conducted virtually, with all lectures and activities designed for online synchronous and asynchronous learning.

Candidate Eligibility:

Candidates should be highly motivated first through third-year undergraduate students from colleges, universities, and other higher education institutions, demonstrating leadership through academic achievements, community involvement, and extracurricular activities. Fields of study can vary, encompassing sciences, social sciences, humanities, education, business, and other professional disciplines. Specific eligibility criteria are as follows:

Candidates applying for SUSI must:

• (Only for Madeleine K. Albright Young Women Leaders program) be female
• be proficient in English
• be interested in the topic of public policymaking
• be between 18 and 25 years old
• have at least one semester remaining in their undergraduate studies, with a commitment to returning to their home universities upon program completion
• demonstrate strong leadership qualities and potential in university and community activities
• exhibit a genuine interest in learning about the United States
• maintain a consistently high level of academic achievement, as reflected in grades, awards, and teacher recommendations
• showcase dedication to community and extracurricular university activities
• possess limited or no prior study or travel experience in the United States or abroad
• demonstrate maturity, responsibility, independence, confidence, open-mindedness, tolerance, thoughtfulness, and curiosity
• be willing and able to fully engage in an intensive academic program, community service, and educational travel
• be comfortable with campus life, prepared to share living accommodations, and adaptable to cultural and social practices different from those of their home country.

 

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Program Requirements and Restrictions:

Participants are not allowed to arrive in the United States before the program start date or remain in the United States after its end date. Similarly, participants may not leave the Institute to visit relatives or friends while in the United States. Exceptions for relative or friend visits will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Participants are required to return to their home countries immediately following the conclusion of the Institute(s). Violations of program rules, host institution rules, or local, state, or federal laws may result in immediate dismissal from the program.

Virtual Program Contingency: In the event of significant health, safety, or travel challenges, the SUSI program may shift to a virtual format. This virtual program would consist of a minimum of 36 hours of required programming, encompassing synchronous and asynchronous learning. Virtual activities may include lectures, small group discussions, videos, readings, panels, leadership development, individual assignments, and group activities. Participants must have access to a computer and a stable internet connection for the virtual program. If a participant lacks these resources, the host institution will work to facilitate access. Participants are expected to actively engage in all program activities and promptly inform the host institution of any issues affecting their online access or participation.

Other Essential Information:

Program Funding: The U.S. Government will cover all participant costs, encompassing program administration, international and visa travel, travel allowances, domestic travel, ground transportation, book, cultural, mailing, and incidental allowances, as well as housing and subsistence costs. The U.S. Government will also arrange and pay for participants' international and visa travel expenses, along with travel allowances within set limits, if the program is conducted in person.

Accommodation and Meals: Participants will be accommodated in shared university dormitories located on campus, which include common bathrooms. For the Comparative Public Policymaking program, male participants will be housed on one floor, while female participants will be accommodated on a separate floor. In the case of the female-specific program, two female participants will share one room. Most meals will be provided at campus dining facilities. However, participants may also have access to a kitchen for preparing some of their meals independently. It is essential for participants to be aware of these arrangements and feel comfortable with the provided accommodations. Special dietary, daily worship, housing, and medical care requirements will be addressed and met with care.

Health Benefits: All participants will receive coverage from the Department of State, with a maximum limit of $100,000. Medical visits will require a co-pay of $25 per visit, while emergency room visits will have a co-pay of $75, throughout the program's duration. Pre-existing conditions may also be covered up to the maximum limit of $100,000, subject to policy exclusions and limitations. It's important to note that COVID-19 will be treated like any other illness under the Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE) policy. Detailed information about the health benefit program can be found online at [insert the provided URL].

Application Process: To apply for the program, please complete the online application form by the deadline of 11:59 pm on Sunday, November 5, 2023. Applications received after this deadline for any reason will automatically be disqualified.

Source: US Embassy Islamabad