U.S. Congress - Korean National Assembly Exchange Program -- Meridian International Center

For the sixteenth consecutive year, Meridian International Center will be staging the U.S. Congress - Korean National Assembly Exchange Program to allow Congressional Interns and their Korean counterparts to participate in an exchange program. The program is facilitated by the U.S. Department of State and sponsored by the office of Senator Mark Kirk. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with their Korean counterparts in Washington, DC and then represent the United States during two weeks in South Korea. Running from July 20 - August 10, 2013, the U.S. Congress - Korean National Assembly Exchange Program will give participants an understanding of Korean culture; the history of U.S. - Korean relations; and the current economic, political, and security aspects of the bilateral relationship. If accepted, PARTICIPANT COSTS ARE COMPLETELY SPONSORED. Days 1-8: Washington, DC- Stay at a hotel in Washington, DC with the Korean delegation, host your Korean counterpart and meet with foreign policy leaders and cultural experts. Days 9-22: Seoul, Korea- Experience Korea first-hand as an honored guest of the Korean National Assembly. Ideal candidates will:• Demonstrate willingness to experience Korean culture and participate in cross-cultural exchange; • Possess the ability to represent the U.S. and their Congressional office as an “Ambassador” to Korea; • Work with their Congressional office to plan a one-day internship on the Hill for their Korean counterpart; • Play host to their Korean counterpart during the Washington, DC portion of the program; • Fully familiarize themselves with provided reading materials and program itinerary; • Actively participate in discussions during professional appointments with questions and analysis; and • Demonstrate professionalism and respect for all participants and hosts throughout the program. Additionally, applicants should be U.S. citizens who have completed at least two years of university studies. Preference is given to applicants between ages 20 and 27 with an enthusiasm for international travel and cultural dialogue. Applicants will also need a nomination from a Member of the United States Congress. The application deadline is Wednesday, May 29, 2013. Interested parties should visit www.meridian.org/2013koreaprogram. Please contact Andrew Ainsworth with any questions at aainsworth@meridian.org.