1983 Developing World Fund
Grants of up to $3,000 will be awarded to students studying abroad in a developing world country to continue their experience abroad through an internship or volunteer experience in that country the following summer. This program helps Smith students to gain a better understanding of the causes and conditions of poverty and learn about solutions for alleviating it.
This fund has been established through the generosity of several women from the class of 1983 who have worked or lived in the developing world.
Eligibility
This merit competition is not based on financial need.
- Smith undergraduates who are studying abroad in a third-world country for a year or semester
- Proposed projects must last at least two months and be in the country in which the student studied abroad
Preference will be given to students who have demonstrated a dedication to serving the poor in the developing world and who express in their proposal a clear vision for translating that dedication into service that fosters peace, justice and sustainable development.
Restrictions
- Praxis or International Experience Grants may not be used in conjunction with this grant
- Funding is not available for use in countries on the U.S. State Department Travel Warning list; travel proposals are only permitted for Kenya, Israel and Mexico on a case-by-case basis and require an additional travel waiver. No other travel to a country with a current State Department Travel Warning is allowed.
Report and Presentation Requirements
A students who receives this award agrees to write to the donors and tell them of her experience and to give a presentation about their experience to their classmates or housemates during the following fall semester. Recipients must also account for their expenses, up to the amount of the award, by submitting an expense report (DOC) upon their return to Smith in the fall.
Application Deadlines
Applications are due March 15, by e-mail to the administrative coordinator in the Office for International Study.
How to Apply
- Application cover page (XLS)
- 500–800 word, double-spaced essay outlining the objectives for your project, describing the importance to you academically, personally and professionally, including your goals for the summer and your relevant preparation.
- List all previous international experiences with duration, location and purpose of your travel.
- Résumé
- Letter of recommendation: one letter of recommendation from a faculty member who is affiliated with your study abroad program and is familiar with your proposal. Letters can be sent by e-mail directly to the administrative coordinator in the Office for International Study.
- Letter of invitation from your internship sponsor, in English, specifying the dates and duration for your internship/volunteer position, describing your duties and daily schedule and any remuneration.
- Description of the organization: write a paragraph describing the organization, and give url if organization has a Web site.
- Budget worksheet (instructions) that includes program or project costs, room and board, travel to the site, local travel, visa costs and incidental expenses.
Please note: Your unofficial transcript will also be reviewed.
