International Study Centre 2018 Washington DC
Why do the ISC Study at a top US university Stay in the heart of one of the most influential cities in the world. Gain a better understanding of how the US Constitution affects every part of the country s past and present. Visit George Washington s home, Mount Vernon
The programme JUSTICE, EQUALITY AND POLICY: Explore aspirations to justice and dilemmas of equality in the United States through law and political science. Economics, history, public policy and sociology are disciplinary entry points, though familiarity with none of these is necessary to learn and enjoy this course. Learn about the structures of U.S. government and the rights and obligations imposed upon it by the U.S. Constitution. Explore four dimensions of inequality: race, gender, sexual orientation and gender identity, and immigration, with a fifth dimension, economic inequality, serving as a unifying thread for discussions. Seminar style lectures encourage discussions with the whole group
To have the opportunity to be taught by Professor Matthew Shaw, a leading talent in the legal justice and political system of America, was a great privilege, as he allowed the debate to form in a way in which his personal opinions did not dominate, yet he still challenged us all on our arguments to ensure we strengthened them. [Matthew, 2 nd year History] The course itself was phenomenal. Journeying back in time to understand the foundation of the Constitution, myself and my class mates followed American (and often wider Eastern and Western) societies progression from the so called dawn of independence. From this point the course took an unexpected route. Instead of learning about America s great transformation and pride of the land and free we were challenged with questioning the entire American philosophy and dream: is America free? [Ryan, Masters Psychology]
Excursions The lectures are complemented with visits to sites around the city and region. For example: Supreme Court Library of Congress The Capitol building African American Museum Washington Monuments U-Street (heart of the civil rights movement) Mount Vernon Estate (George Washington s house) [Note: some visits are subject to ticket availability as it is not always possible to book far in advance.]
Student feedback I learned more from this trip than I have through almost anything else. Not only did I learn a lot about U.S. politics but I am now far more independent that I ever was before [Sebastian, 1 st year History and Politics] There were countless times that I was challenged in my own beliefs and my own thoughts on wealth, poverty and inequality. Combined, our classes and tours consolidated my love of history and view that knowledge is power. [Emily, 1 st year English] Listening to different opinions and engaging is cross-disciplinary debates and conversation only strengthened my understanding of Justice, Equality and Policy; and would be a fantastic experience for any student studying a range of different subjects. [Jodie, Postgraduate Politics] Overall, this programme was the best experience of my life. It was challenging and exciting and taught me a lot about myself and which issues are closest to my heart. [Lucy, 2 nd year History]
Campus and Accommodation The programme accommodation is on the George Washington University Foggy Bottom campus, which is two blocks from the White House (so very central). There are many food shops and restaurants within walking distance of the dorms, and a subway station and hospital on the campus.
Visa Requirements The USA has an entry authorisation called ESTA. If you are from a one of the 38 countries lists here (which includes the UK) http://www.esta.us/visa_waiver_countries.html it is your responsibility to get an ESTA, not a visa. An ESTA can be filled in online and currently costs $14. If you are not from a country listed it would be your responsibility to get a visa. The cost of the ESTA and any visa is not included in the programme cost.
What will it cost? Participation in the 2018 ISC programme cost 2,200 per student. A deposit/acceptance fee of 200 is necessary to secure your place on an ISC. A payment plan of two further instalments is then implemented to allow you to spread the programme participation cost. What is included in the cost: International flights Tuition fees Transfer to and from airport in host country Travel insurance Entry tickets Accommodation Some money on a student card to cover some meals at food outlets and supermarkets on campus. What is not included in the cost: ESTA or visa Metro (subway) tickets Extra money for meals Spending money
Bursaries Each year there are a limited number of bursaries you can apply for towards the cost of the Study Centre. These are highly competitive and will be distributed on a needs basis. They are evaluated by a bursary case submitted as part of your application. Previous award amounts have been between 500 and 2000.
Admission criteria International Study Centres are open to all York students, including final year, masters, postgraduates and distance learners. You do not need any prior knowledge of the topic and it doesn t need to be linked to your degree. It is a chance to learn something from a different perspective, something completely different, and/or about a country that interests you. Students must be of good academic standing. A reference is requested from your supervisor as part of the application process As a postgraduate student, I was at first concerned that the course would not be suitable for me, or perhaps I would feel excluded with such a heavily populated group of younger students. However this was not the case at all, the course was stimulating and incredibly thought provoking for anyone on all levels, and seemed to be thoroughly enjoyed by each member of the class. [Jodie Hoskins]
Application and Deadlines Applications for 2018 will open on E:Vision on Thursday 19 October and will close on Wednesday 7 February at 1pm. The application is a number of personal statement type questions. Shortlisted applications will be invited for a 10 minute interview. (Skype or phone interviews will only be offered to distance learners or students on placements) Interviews will take place on 21, 22, 23, 26, 27 or 28 February 2018, with a first pre-departure workshop on Wednesday 7 March.
Pre-departure There are pre-departure workshops scheduled in the spring and summer term, where you will be told all the information you require for the trip. They are mandatory and will mainly be held on Wednesday afternoons. Topics will include (amongst others) visas, free insurance provided by the University, flight details, group risk assessments and how to articulate your experience to future potential employers. You will also have chance to meet the rest of the group going on the trip and the York team leader who will also accompany the group.
For more info Contact summer-abroad@york.ac.uk Speak to our peer advisor Max who has been on an ISC global-peer-advisors@york.ac.uk Visit one of the following events to speak to us in person: Global Opportunities Fair - 19th October, 15:00-18:00, Physics Exhibition Centre (PT005/a) International Study Centre information session - Wednesday 22 November, 13:15-14:00, Derwent (D/N/056) Summer Opportunities Fair - Wednesday 24 January, 12:00-15:00, Ron Cooke Hub atrium