International Affairs Summer Programs at UPenn |International Relations Programs for High School Students

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University of Pennsylvania - Residential Program

The Only Global Leadership Program of Its Kind

If you’re just getting interested in international relations or are already a student of global politics, our pre-college international affairs summer program will increase your experience, knowledge and skills for future leadership. To provide a diverse world perspective, 50% of our students are international. The unique Internationals Affairs summer program is designed for high school students and features debate, public speaking, research workshops, social entrepreneurship, realistic UN simulations, and guest speakers — including international dignitaries, members of foreign embassies and authorities in the field. You will also enjoy field trips to the United Nations in New York City and Embassy Row in Washington, DC.

College Credit

Prep for more than the simulations, the debates and the UN simulations; this pre-college program preps you for life. Sharpen your thinking skills and hone your leadership skills. What better way to bring it all together, than with a course that equips you to apply what you learn over the summer towards furthering your career path. As a student in the International Affairs: Leadership & Model UN Program, you will earn a college credit from the University of Delaware Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics.

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Essential Experience
World Leader Simulations
NGO Project
Faculty

Essential Experience

for Future Leaders

This pre-college program is more than just prepping for your next Model UN conference or debate, this is prepping you for life! As you address relevant political and business topics and build leadership abilities you will develop the critical thinking skills needed to understand globalization, current events and multilateral diplomacy. And you'll work on the practical skills required to lead; learn what it means to be a leader, what are the key traits of a leader and, most importantly, you’ll leave the program knowing how to get things done.

You will identify leadership traits in yourself as well as in others and will walk away with a set of leadership tools that can be used to create positive change in any organization. From writing mission and vision statements, creating smart goals, managing budgets, and perfecting elevator pitches, you will finish this program as stronger leaders than when you started.

Each week, you will also experience culture through the cuisine of countries from around the world. Whether it is Senegalese food or Burmese food, there is always something new to try and something new to learn about culture through food.

Our real-world approach blends:

World history & culture
Global studies
World relations & politics
Current events
Business
Realistic Model United Nations (MUN) simulations
Public speaking & debate
Leadership training
Field trips & guest speakers - previous trips have included the UN in New York, Twitter, Embassy Row in DC, the Organization of American States in DC, 9/11 Museum, SOS Children's Village and more!

World Leader Simulations

Among the highlights of this summer international leadership program are the UN-style world leader simulations. You and your fellow delegates will represent the world’s nations in realistic situations where you debate the most urgent issues facing our world today. You’ll prepare for the sessions by exploring current political situations, leadership positions, voting patterns and alliances of the country you represent.

NGO Project

Become Politically Empowered to Act Locally and Globally

Our four-week long NGO (non-governmental organization) project gives you the opportunity to apply all you have learned to do good. Working in teams, you will create an NGO, write a strategic business plan and pitch your idea to social entrepreneurs.

You will work on the “Invisible Issues” project and develop your own NGO. You will create your own organization and compete to raise awareness of an invisible humanitarian issue affecting some small part of the world. You will prepare for a global awareness fair, writing a formal grant for funding, and present that grant to Julian Krinsky himself for the chance to win real money for your cause.

We are proud to say this project has resulted in the creation of several real organizations such as Dreamlist and Nada. This is real business experience!

Faculty

Mr. Adam Gold

Our program is run by Mr. Adam Gold, a high school social studies teacher. During the school year, Mr. Gold teaches American history and economics. After working in government, marketing, and the non-profit sector as a director of development, Mr. Gold decided to take his passion for education into the classroom full-time. He has also been active in Model United Nations for a number of years as an organizer for the Institute for International Affairs, helping run Model UN and Model Congress conferences.

College Credit

College Credit from the University of Delaware

Career Building: An Entrepreneurial Approach (1 credit)

As a student in the International Affairs: Leadership & Model UN Program, you will earn a college credit from the University of Delaware Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics. As you begin to explore different industries in your pre-college years, the skills you will learn in this course, combined with the experience you will gain in the summer program, will help you navigate your next steps more intentionally. This course is designed to provide practical career development skills and foster an entrepreneurial mindset. The course consists of one evening lecture per week along with homework assignments. The time commitment is approximately 3 hours per week and does require a laptop.

The course will complement the experience you will have in the classroom and on site field trips as you learn about:

Social Media
Managing Your Personal Brand
International Job Markets
Communication Skills
Resume Writing
Cultural Differences in the Job Search
Successful Networking

Application Deadline is May 1.

Campus Life
Campus Highlights
Dorm Life
Meals
Dietary Needs
Medical
Safety
Travel

Campus Life

at the University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania is a historic Ivy League university located in the heart of Philadelphia. During the summer Leadership & Model UN Program, the UPenn campus is filled with high school students, undergraduates, graduate students and professors; giving you the real collegiate experience.

Life in the University City District

There is always something to do when class is over: movies, tours, events in the Quad, going to the gym and more. Campus is surrounded by dozens of shops and restaurants that are fun to explore with friends.

Campus Highlights

UPenn Bookstore - Get your UPenn gear here.
Campus Art Galleries - Check out student work.
Penn Park - 24-acre sustainable gateway to downtown Philadelphia with dozens of athletic facilities.
The Quad - Three college houses that make up Penn’s largest dormitory and your summer home.
Franklin Field - Home to the Penn Relays and Penn Football since 1895.
College Hall - Built in 1872, it was the first building on the new campus.
Locust Walk - The tree-lined pedestrian walkway that's the heartbeat of Penn’s campus.
College Green - Penn’s major crossroads and a popular meeting spot.
Houston Hall - It's the nation’s oldest student union, offering dining options you will love.
Jon M. Huntsman Hall - Check out the top floor and experience a commanding view of Penn’s campus and downtown Philadelphia at the Wharton School of Business.

Dorm Life

You’ll be living in the famous Quad with other students attending JKCP and UPenn programs. While the original building cornerstone was laid in 1895, the dorms were completely renovated and updated in 2009. Your room will be either a single or double, furnished with a bed, desk, chair and dresser. If you are in a double, you will be rooming with someone who is similar in age and grade in school. You will be provided with your room number, room location and roommate's name when you arrive on campus.

You’ll also have a team of residential advisors who live in the dorm on the same floor as you. Outside of class, your amazing advisors are responsible for helping you meet your new life-long friends, navigate dorm life, entertainment, evening activities and weekend trips.

Meals

You may choose from a selection of Penn’s main dining facilities located within walking distance from the Quad including Houston Market, 1920 Commons, and an incredible selection of off campus restaurants. On campus, enjoy a bountiful, seasonal salad bar, made-to-order deli, fresh, hot pizzas, savory soups, veggie, chicken, and beef burgers grilled to perfection, and delectable desserts.

Off Campus Meals

Off campus meals are at your expense. One night a week dinner will be at a restaurant. You will also eat off campus for lunch and dinner on your Saturday trip. Maybe you want to take the time to sit down with friends at the beach or grab a quick bite on your way to the next site in NYC.

Dietary Needs

As it is in college cafeterias, you are given the freedom to make your own choices. There are always multiple options available for each meal including vegetarian choices. If you have special dietary needs or allergies, please contact us prior to your arrival.

Medical

If you don’t feel well, just let your advisor know and we’ll help you get better in no time. Chances are you won’t need it, but we have a nurse and doctor on-call and the campus is only a few steps away from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), one of the finest in the nation. As long as you keep taking any medicine you normally do at home, eat right and get some sleep, you should have nothing to worry about.

Safety

Safety on and off campus is always our number one priority. We have found a residential advisor to student ratio of approximately 1:10 is the perfect balance of freedom coupled with safe supervision. You are also always required to stay in groups of three or more and check-in at regular intervals when off campus.

JKCP is proactive about your safety:

24/7 UPenn Campus Security
Extensive FBI staff background checks
Intensive staff and student orientations
Staff trained to handle situations discreetly, with care and sensitivity
Professionally designed crisis management plan
Access to the region’s top hospitals within minutes
A registered nurse, doctor and trainer who are always on call

Travel

Whether you are coming from Sao Paulo, San Francisco, Stockholm or Shanghai, getting to Philadelphia is easy by plane, train or car.

We’ll be there to pick you up!

The Philadelphia International Airport is about 20 minutes from campus.
There are nearly 600 daily arrivals from 120 cities, including 36 international destinations.
The Amtrak train also goes right to Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station.

International Experience
Experience Philadelphia

International Experience

Students from Over 35 States and 40 Countries

In today’s global economy, we believe it is essential for you to be exposed to different cultures. There is so much value in realizing how diverse our world is and your ability to connect with new people across all cultures. Every year we hear how much students enjoy meeting people from all over the country and the world and how it opened their eyes to different parts of the globe. We love nothing more than to hear about you traveling to another part of the world to visit one of your new friends and how these lifelong connections have shaped your lives. We really are creating a “World Without Strangers.”

Experience Philadelphia

Philadelphia is the fifth largest U.S. city, so there’s plenty going on. Here are our favorites:

Shopping and Hanging Out. Walk around with friends in cool sections of town. Grab a bite. Hit some stores. You'll love Rittenhouse Square and the UPenn campus area.
Restaurants. Philly is a foodie destination with lots of al fresco dining.
Rocky Steps. You've seen it. Now do it. Make your own triumphant dash to the top.
Philly Sports. There's an exciting vibe all summer in this true sports town.
Outdoor Festivals. All summer long there are festivals, concerts in the park and outdoor events.
Campuses in Summertime. Philadelphia colleges have some of the most beautiful campuses in the world. Who knows, maybe you'll come to college here. This is the perfect time to explore.
Museums & Historic Sites. If you're into it, Philly has truly amazing museums and historic sites.

Residential Tuition Explained
How to Apply
Application Requirements
Policies
Cancellation Insurance
Payment Options
Financial Aid

Residential Tuition Explained

July 3 - July 30

Tuition of $6,995 Includes:

College credit from the University of Delaware
Program materials and course supplies
Program activities and weekly off campus trips
Rooming in the Quad at Penn
All on campus meals
Evening activities
Weekend trips

A deposit of $500 is required for all residential students. If you are not accepted into the program, this deposit will be returned.

Tuition Does Not Include:

Non-Refundable Application Fee: $100

International Student Package: $265 (Saturday July 2 arrival, linens, round trip transportation to PHL Airport or 30th Street Station)

How to Apply

It's easy!

Submit your basic information, application fee, and deposit online.
Check your email for an invitation to your online account and registration confirmation email from us.
Submit your other application requirements as soon as possible using your online account. Don’t forget to submit at the bottom!
International Affairs employs a rolling admissions policy, so the sooner you complete your application, the better! Decisions are sent via email within three weeks of completing your application.
If accepted, RSVP and submit your tuition payment (via check or wire transfer). Return to your online account to complete a few more forms. This is important stuff…your health, arrival and information about you.

Not quite ready to apply yet? Speak to our Program Director Mike Boyle, by phone 610.265.9401 x56, or by email MichaelB@jkcp.com.

Already applied? Click here to sign in to your account.

Application Requirements

After completing your application, you can login to your account to complete your additional requirements:

A short description of three extracurricular activities
A short description of three honors or awards received
Short Essay
High School Information
Copy of Academic Transcript including Fall 2015 grades
Contact information for a teacher you would like to recommend you
Letter of Recommendation completed by a current or recent teacher
If English is not your first language and your school does not provide instruction in English, a copy of TOEFL scores are required for students that do not speak English as a first language and whose language of instruction in school is not English. SAT scores, ACT scores, or a letter of recommendation from your English teacher may be used as a substitute for TOEFL scores.

Policies

Before applying to a program, you, the applicant are responsible for evaluating your interests and credentials carefully to determine whether you are suitable for the selected program(s). The submission of an application constitutes an assurance that you meet the minimum admission standards for the program; you are prepared linguistically, academically, and socially to succeed and derive benefits from the program; and it is appropriate for your academic program or goals. Once accepted, you will be required to complete additional forms by May 1, 2016 including arrival information, departure information, health information, room and key agreement, and rules & policies acknowledgment. You are required to be present from the first day of the program.

Cancellation Insurance

We strongly suggest purchasing Cancellation Insurance. The price of the insurance is $90 per week and your coverage must be purchased and paid in full within seven days of application confirmation. If Cancellation Insurance is purchased, any fees paid to JKCP other than the Nonrefundable Application Fee, Nonrefundable Deposit and Nonrefundable Cancellation Insurance Fees are covered by this policy and will be refunded when you withdraw at least twenty-one days prior to your session’s start date.

Payment Options

Application Fee and Deposit

We require a $100 application fee and a $500 deposit at the time of application which may be paid via credit card. If you are not accepted into the program, your deposit will be refunded. Charges will appear on your credit card statement as “JKST, Inc.”.

Cancellation Insurance Fee

If purchased, $360 must be paid within seven days of beginning your application.

Session Fee

If accepted, tuition payments may be submitted via check, money order, or wire transfer.

Financial Aid

You may request a financial aid application by emailing modelun@jkcp.com. If approved, any adjustments are normally made in the form of partial tuition reduction, which is typically no more than 5-25% off the tuition price. We also recommend looking into community and non-profit foundation scholarship funds. There are many foundations that support summer program tuition.

Typical Day

Weekday Schedule

There really is no “typical” day at International Affairs: Leadership & Model UN.

However, it is a question we are asked often. So, we outlined a sample schedule for you. As part of a pre-college program, the schedule and offerings do vary by day and depend on what’s happening in the program. This variation really gives you a taste of college life!

Schedule of a day

Morning

7:45am Wakeup

8:15am Breakfast

9:00am Morning Class

Afternoon

12:00pm Lunch

1:00pm Afternoon Class

4:30pm Activities/Credit Course

Evening

6:00pm Dinner

7:00pm Evening Activities

10:00pm Curfew

Weekend Trips

Saturdays

Two or three trips are offered every Saturday to regional destinations of your choice. It’s a full day trip that is jam packed! We leave campus after breakfast on air-conditioned motor coaches and return after dinner that evening. Remember to bring some spending money for off campus meals and any souvenirs you might want to buy!

2016 Schedule

July 9: New York City, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
July 16: Washington DC, Hershey Park
July 23: New York City, Paintball in the Poconos, Six Flags Great Adventure

Sundays

Start a little later on Sundays. You can sleep in and enjoy a great brunch on campus. Then, enjoy a trip in the local Philadelphia area.

July 10: Adventure Aquarium, King of Prussia Mall
July 17: Phillies Game, Philadelphia Zoo
July 24: Rittenhouse Square, Historic Philadelphia

Evening Activities

Each evening, you will participate in either an on campus or off campus activity.

Evening activities include:

Dances
King of Prussia or Cherry Hill Mall
Downtown Philadelphia
Trips
Movies
Campus Olympics
Casino Night
Amazing Race
Bowling

Behind the Scenes

There’s no app for that!

You've got to be here.

As these photos and videos will show you, there actually isn’t an app for this experience! You can’t login remotely and you can’t join us via Google hangout - it just wouldn’t be the same. You have to be here; doing it, living it, being a part of it. So, go ahead and explore our videos and images. Then, make us part of your story using #jkcp. What will your favorite moment be?

Insider Resources

Live Chat

FAQ's

When should I apply?: This is a competitive program and admission is on a rolling basis. The earlier your application is received, the better your chances of being accepted. Admissions are made when completed applications and deposits have been paid.
Can I save my application information and come back to finish it?: After filling out your registration form, paying your deposit and application fee, and creating your online account, you will be able to save and return to complete your application.
How do I know that you have received my application?: After submitting your online application form, you will receive an e-mail within 48 hours to confirm receipt. Also, we will send you a weekly update on the status of your application materials.
Do I need to obtain a visa if I live outside the U.S.?: Depending on your home country, you may need to apply for a visa. When doing so please apply for a visitor’s visa, not a student visa, and indicate that you will be attending a “summer camp” in the United States.
Will I receive college credit for participating in the program?: Yes! The University of Delaware - Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics provides one college credit for the International Affairs: Leadership & Model UN program.
Do you offer financial aid?: You may request a scholarship by completing our financial aid application form. If approved, any adjustments are normally made in the form of partial tuition reduction, which is typically between 5% and 25% off the tuition price.
How do I apply for financial aid?: We aim to ensure that qualified students have the opportunity to attend the program, regardless of personal financial circumstances. To be considered for need-based aid, you are required to submit the financial aid application and applicable forms.
How do I sign in to my account?: You may sign in to your account here.
Error:Your account is not linked to this organization, when trying to log in?: If you receive this error while trying to log into your account please call Active Network Technical Support at 877.228.4881 option 3.
What is cancellation insurance?: We recommend cancellation insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances, sudden illness or injury to you or a family member, or a change in plans. It is $90 per week for residential programs and must be paid within 7 days of your application.

How are roommates assigned?: Our goal is to have students develop new relationships and become part of a broader learning community. Therefore, we pair students with roommates whom they do not know outside of the program.
What happens if a room key is lost?: We need a credit card authorization form on file before you arrive. This is in case you lose your key or damage your room. If you lose your key notify our staff immediately. The locks will need to be changed and the credit card on file will be charged.
Where will students be living during the program?: Students live in the Quad, a dormitory-style residence hall on the University of Pennsylvania campus.
How can I do my laundry?: You can use the free on campus laundry machines. If using this option, students will need to provide their own laundry detergent. Our counselors can help those who are doing laundry for the first time. There is also a dry cleaner near campus.
Are linens and bedding provided?: Bring your own, or for $65 JKCP will provide a fitted and flat sheet, bath towel, washcloth, a pillow, pillowcase and blanket. Select this option when completing your pre-summer forms. Linen is included as part of the international student package.

How safe is the campus?: The campus is very safe. The dorm is staffed by directors and team advisors who are trained by Penn Public Safety. UPenn has 24/7 Campus Security. There are also strict visiting policies and key cards are required to enter any dorm or classrooms.
Do you offer travel insurance?: Yes, students living outside of the U.S. may purchase insurance through AVI by contacting them directly.

What is the format of the four week program?: The program features debate, public speaking and research workshops, realistic UN simulations, and speakers — including international dignitaries and members of foreign embassies. You will also enjoy field trips to the UN and Embassy Row in DC.
Does participation in the program give me an advantage when applying to Penn?: There is no correlation between participation in the program and favorable admission to Penn.
How much spending money will I need?: The amount of spending money you will need is at your discretion. We suggest that you bring approximately $100–$125 per week for laundry, off-campus meals, snacks and personal expenses. This money should be in the form of a debit or credit card.
How will I get to and from campus?: You can arrive by car or we offer transportation to and from Philadelphia International Airport or Philly's 30th Street Amtrak Train Station. If you are flying in to or out of another airport we recommend professional driver Robert Folz 610.636.4530.
What meals are covered?: You will dine with the other students for most meals at university dining halls. You are responsible for three meals per week. If you have dietary restrictions, we will work with you and you family to ensure that appropriate dining options are available.
What should I do if I have a problem while I'm away from home?: While cell phone use is allowed, please notify the director immediately instead of calling home with any problem that arises. Those who use this direct communication get their problem resolved in the quickest and most professional manner.
What happens if I am sick or injured?: A nurse, doctor, pediatric nurse practitioner and trainer are always on call. There is a hospital within five minutes of campus. If you have been seen by our family practitioner, the office will bill you directly, not your individual insurance company.
What is your policy on smoking and substance abuse?: We have a zero tolerance policy for the possession and/or use of alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, vapor devices, weapons, and drugs. Use or possession will result in immediate expulsion and any costs associated are at your expense.

Testimonials

My son returned from the Model Un program at Upenn and had the best month of his life. So incredibly happy he had this amazing experience and met so many great people!

– Lianna T., Parent
This experience was a perfect balance of academic and social interactions; the best summer of my life.

– Sarah T., Student
While much of the learning comes from working in groups with the diverse culture at Model UN, many students find that some of their biggest learning experiences come outside of the classroom.

– Sejune P., Student
To sum up my JKCP experience in one word, it would have to be..... inspirational. The International Affairs program has allowed me to really reflect on who I really am.

– Joel-Isaac M., Student
I really enjoyed the course of Model UN and I finally understand what business means to me. I know what I really want and who I want to be now.

– Wesley L., Student

University of Pennsylvania - Residential Program

The Only Global Leadership Program of Its Kind

College Credit

Essential Experience

for Future Leaders

World Leader Simulations

NGO Project

Become Politically Empowered to Act Locally and Globally

Faculty

Mr. Adam Gold

College Credit

College Credit from the University of Delaware

Campus Life

at the University of Pennsylvania

Life in the University City District

Campus Highlights

Dorm Life

Meals

Off Campus Meals

Dietary Needs

Medical

Safety

JKCP is proactive about your safety:

Travel

We’ll be there to pick you up!

International Experience

Students from Over 35 States and 40 Countries

Experience Philadelphia

Residential Tuition Explained

July 3 - July 30

Tuition of $6,995 Includes:

Tuition Does Not Include:

How to Apply

It's easy!

Application Requirements

Policies

Cancellation Insurance

Payment Options

Application Fee and Deposit

Cancellation Insurance Fee

Session Fee

Financial Aid

Typical Day

Weekday Schedule

There really is no “typical” day at International Affairs: Leadership & Model UN.

Weekend Trips

Saturdays

Sundays

Evening Activities

Behind the Scenes

There’s no app for that!

You've got to be here.

FAQ's

Testimonials

– Lianna T., Parent

– Sarah T., Student

– Sejune P., Student

– Joel-Isaac M., Student

– Wesley L., Student

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