The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center is an academic unit of the University of Montana dedicated to enhancing mutual understanding between the United States and other countries around the world, and to fostering ethical public policy and leadership. The Center supports this mission by fostering university and community links with other countries and dialogue on issues facing the United States and the world on matters of the economy, the environment, global development, and international relations.
Program Details:
Join us in vibrant Taiwan to gain critical language skills and increase your global awareness by applying for this fully funded program.
The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center has partnered with Shih Chien University in Taipei, Taiwan to expand Chinese language and cultural immersion opportunities for Montana high school students. Taiwan is an island with a distinct identity, robust democracy, and dynamic economy that Americans need to better understand. The Taiwan Summer Study Tour offers a unique and generous opportunity to close the knowledge gap about Taiwan by inviting high school students to spend two weeks in Taipei studying Mandarin language and deepening their knowledge of Taiwanese culture.
With a blend of class time and cultural excursions throughout the island, this short-term educational program is designed to expose a new generation of students to Mandarin language (which can unlock diverse job opportunities), as well as its unique history and culture. This program can kickstart academic growth while providing the chance for students to bolster respect for and cooperation with people from different backgrounds. The study tour is fully funded by the Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center, in partnership with Shih Chien University. This means that round trip flights, lodging, transportation, language and cultural courses, cultural tours, and meals are covered..
Program Dates: June 26-July 10, 2024
Participant Selection Criteria:
- U.S. citizen
- Current Montana high school student
- Interest in learning Mandarin language
- Interest in East Asian history and culture
- Ability to enthusiastically engage with fellow program participants and overseas university students and staff
- Flexibility, adaptability, and open-mindedness
- Interest in international affairs and cultural exchange
- Strong leadership, teamwork, and communication skills
- Ability to articulate how Taiwan Summer Study Tour learnings will align with future study or work plans
- Demonstrated understanding of cultural sensitivity and cross-cultural competence
Application Deadline: Friday, April 25 2024 11:59 p.m.