One of the goals of the McDonnell International Scholars Academy is to create a global network of scholars and leaders. Such networks will be an increasingly important resource for addressing societal problems in the future, and they require distinctive forms of knowledge and leadership skills. With this in mind, Scholars participate in a special program of seminars, retreats, and other events. These feature distinguished scholars, politicians, and other analysts leading discussions on global issues, including the future of higher education. Other sessions will address political, cultural, and economic issues in the United States. The Academy is especially interested in recruiting individuals who are concerned with such issues in addition to those covered in their normal studies.

The initial group of Scholars who enter in fall 2006 will participate in the McDonnell Academy’s inaugural conference on the future of global universities. Chancellors and rectors of the partner universities will be invited to attend the conference.

AmbassadorsEach Scholar in the McDonnell Academy is paired with an Ambassador, appointed by the Academy director, who serves as a mentor and assists in the Scholar’s academic and professional life at Washington University. Each mentor is also an Ambassador to the Scholar’s alma mater and country, responsible for building relationships with the partner university, and with alumni, friends, corporations, and government entities in that country. The Ambassador accompanies the Scholar on a one-week annual trip to the Scholar’s university to host alumni events, information sessions, and meetings with key university contacts.

The Ambassador also identifies opportunities for scholarly collaboration involving other faculty and students of Washington University and of the partner research university.

Admission to the Academy

Eligibility
Students from a University Partner who apply for admission to one of Washington University’s full-time graduate and professional programs for a master’s or doctoral degree may also apply for admission to the McDonnell International Scholars Academy. A separate application to the Academy is required.

Admission to the McDonnell International Scholars AcademyApplicants must be admitted to a graduate or professional degree program at Washington University. The McDonnell Academy steering committee will select Scholars based on outstanding academic potential and on applicants’ commitment to learning more about international issues and global leadership.

How to Apply
Apply to a master’s or doctoral degree program at Washington University. Applicants must also complete an Application to the McDonnell International Scholars Academy at Washington University in St. Louis, which includes an essay on why the applicant would be a good fit for the Academy.

Click here to download a pdf of the McDonnell International Scholars Academy application. You may also call 01-314-935-6779 for further information.

Support of Scholars
Scholars are provided with:

• full tuition
• a stipend for living expenses
• support for travel to St. Louis
• a travel grant for an annual one-week trip to return to the Scholar’s University Partner.

For more info, please visit:
http://mcdonnell.wustl.edu/special.htm