American Field Service Scholarship: A Comprehensive Guide
The American Field Service (AFS) offers a unique scholarship program focused on global competence, social impact, and sustainability, providing students with invaluable international experiences. This article delves into the requirements and structure of the AFS scholarship, offering a detailed overview of the program's components and benefits.
Program Structure
The AFS scholarship program is structured into two key phases: a virtual e-learning curriculum and an immersive study abroad experience.
Virtual E-Learning Curriculum
All Academy scholars begin with a 12-week interactive online curriculum (from home), engaging in content on global competence skills, social impact, and sustainability. The Academies begin with a 12-week virtual e-learning curriculum (from home), engaging in global competence skills, social impact, and sustainability-focused workshops, with content co-developed by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. This initial phase focuses on developing crucial skills and knowledge related to global issues. The virtual portion of the program culminates with student-led social impact projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on climate change and the energy transition.
Immersive Study Abroad Experience
After completing the virtual curriculum, Academy scholars travel on a 4-week immersive experience to one of the Academy destinations: Brazil, China, Egypt or India. Academy programming focuses on critical STEM skills and intercultural understanding for global sustainability, as well as local cultural immersion.
Academy Destinations and Focus Areas
The AFS program offers immersive experiences in four distinct locations, each focusing on specific themes related to STEM, sustainability, and cultural understanding.
Read also: Internship Guide
Brazil: Innovations in Renewable Energy
Explore innovations in renewable energy in the coastal city of Natal, Brazil. In Natal, on Brazil’s northeast Atlantic coast, scholars will meet with professors and learn about their research at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, while taking field trips to the International Institute of Physics, the Brain Institute, and the Digital Metropolis Institute. Learn about the importance of biofuels and alternative energy production, and meet with STEM professionals and mentors. This immersive Academy includes a homestay weekend with a Brazilian family and activities with Brazilian high schoolers, as well as Portuguese language classes and workshops to build intercultural leadership and global citizenship skills.
China: Mobility, Innovation, and Sustainable Energy
Embark on a multi-site learning journey through Beijing, Shanghai, and Ningbo and delve into mobility, innovation, and sustainable energy while engaging deeply with Chinese culture. Engage with local STEM leaders and Chinese peers for an immersive and educational exchange, and sharpen practical skills and spark creativity with hands-on activities such as flight simulation and 3D printing. Experience unique visits and short stays with local AFS host families for an authentic glimpse into everyday life in China, fostering deeper cultural understanding.
Egypt: Ancient Engineering and Modern Sustainability
In the “cradle of civilization”, explore ancient engineering wonders such as the Great Pyramids, as well as the unique environmental sustainability practices in the modern city of Cairo. Scholars will engage in STEM (or rather STREAM - adding Art & Robotics) activities, from exploring how robotics help mitigate climate change problems, to conducting hands-on learning both in the field and in laboratories at Zewail City of Science and Technology.
India: Technology, Software, and Energy Industry Leadership
Rich culture intersects with leading research and development in India. Scholars will engage in hands-on workshops on topics such as robotics and technology-driven software, complete service leadership projects, embark on field trips and meet with energy industry leaders. Connect with local professionals and learn more about global careers in the STEM and sustainability fields. Learn about India’s innovations in mobility, including lower-emission fuels, electric vehicle charging and other lower-carbon solutions, along with its demand to meet the fastest-growing fuels market in the world.
Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact
Program scholars earn the Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact, awarded by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. This certificate signifies the scholar's proficiency in global competence and their commitment to social impact.
Read also: American Career College Anaheim
Application Process
Once you have submitted your pre-application, including completing all items on your to do list, our team will assess your pre-application to determine if you are eligible to continue the process. To review the eligibility criteria, and to read more about the program please visit the program page.
Read also: Understanding the LSAT for AU WCL
tags: #American #Field #Service #scholarship #requirements

