Diplomacy Scholars Spring 2023

Diplomacy Scholars, May 2022
The 2022 Diplomacy Scholars cohort visit NATO headquarters in Brussels, accompanied by Judy Hutchinson, student engagement program director at Notre Dame International.

The Nanovic Institute’s Diplomacy Scholars Program, now in its third semester, seeks to provide a select group of undergraduate and graduate students with the skills necessary to be effective diplomats working to advance the common good in the world today. The program will provide theoretical background but will emphasize practical aspects of diplomacy in dialogue with experienced diplomats. The course culminates in “Diplomacy Immersion” in Europe in late May 2023.

Through simulations, conversations with current and former diplomats, and coursework students will develop six key competencies:

  • Judgment and decision making
  • Conflict mediation and negotiation
  • Protocol and management
  • Intercultural communication
  • Public speaking
  • Written communication

Expectations

Accepted students are required to enroll in the three-credit Deep Dive Into Diplomacy (EURO 30007). During these sessions, students will discuss the diplomatic way of life and the ethical and political questions at the heart of international diplomacy. They will gain a direct understanding of what it means to work in a Foreign Service capacity. This course will be taught by Nanovic Institute Director Clemens Sedmak in collaboration with Melinda Fountain, the Keough School of Global Affairs’ Associate Director for Professional Development and Alumni Relations, and a former diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service.

Students will learn from and practice diplomatic skills in exclusive sessions with visiting speakers from a variety of diplomatic fields. In addition to the course sessions, students will be expected to participate in a few additional course enrichment activities including a “protocol dinner,” and a consulate tour in Chicago.

This is an intensive program that requires students to be engaged with and committed to the material and activities. Class materials including books, excursions, and activities are provided by the Nanovic Institute. The Nanovic Institute will cover all expenses related to this course and the fall break “Diplomacy Tour.”

Application Details and Eligibility

The Diplomacy Scholars Program is competitive and requires the submission of an application. The course is open to all interested undergraduate students and Master of Global Affairs students in the Keough School of Global Affairs. The spring cohort will be limited to 10 undergraduate students and 5 graduate students. The application includes a motivational essay. Apply here by Tuesday, November 8 at 11:59 p.m. Students who graduate in May 2023 will not be eligible to participate in the diplomacy immersion.

Questions? Contact Student Programs Assistant Director Anna Dolezal.