Diplomacy Fellows

 
Diplomacy Fellows at the ICJ in The Hague.
The 2024 Diplomacy Fellows group at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague.

The Nanovic Institute’s Diplomacy Fellows Program 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. This program provides a theoretical background but it also emphasizes practical aspects of diplomacy in dialogue with experienced diplomats. The course culminates in “Diplomacy Immersion” in Europe.

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

  • Judgment and decisionmaking

  • 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). Any student applying will need to be able to commit to the course in which they 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.

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 consulate tour in Chicago and immersion in Europe.

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 Spring Break Diplomacy immersion.

Application Details and Eligibility

The Diplomacy Fellows 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 application includes a motivational essay.

Applications for the 2024 cohort closed on October 24, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. Next year's information will be released as soon as possible.

Questions? Contact Director of Undergraduate Studies Abby Lewis.