SELECTION CRITERIA

In selecting our Fellows, we are looking for students who have the necessary characteristics to thrive in our intensive program, and who are committed to helping us build GCY for the future.

Our application process is intentionally rigorous, and is designed to identify Fellows with high potential as leaders and agents of change.  GCY Fellows are:

Passionate
GCY Fellows are able to envision a goal or outcome and work toward it with intensity and excitement.  They pursue interests and issues of personal or societal importance with determination, and they often inspire others to follow their lead.

Resourceful
GCY Fellows are entrepreneurial. They are able to act effectively and imaginatively, especially in difficult situations. They have demonstrated an ability to see opportunities for change and innovation, and are inventive in pursuing these opportunities, finding new resources to overcome obstacles.

Curious
GCY Fellows are receptive to and hungry for new ideas, perspectives, and experiences, and continuously develop newer and more refined questions for exploration. This is reflected in the way they communicate, withholding judgment while bringing their own distinct sense of self to their interactions with others.

Resilient
GCY Fellows have demonstrated that, under stress and amidst unexpected challenges, they are able to find opportunities for learning and personal growth.  They are quick to recover and maintain a consistent direction despite interference or a demanding physical or social environment.  This characteristic can be particularly important, as Fellows are often placed in rural areas, and in settings quite different from home.

Idealistic
GCY Fellows share a common belief that a better world IS possible.  They are prepared to challenge cynicism to pursue ambitious goals, and they have demonstrated determination to change the world.

Principled
GCY Fellows possess a clarity of purpose and a steady moral center.  Their values do not depend on the circumstance or opportunity for personal gain.  They demonstrate contagious integrity: an authentic commitment to serve the public good (even in the face of adversity) which encourages others to do the same.

ADDITIONAL PREFERRED SKILLS

Technological Savvy
GCY Fellows should be comfortable with new technologies since they will utilize web and social media tools to communicate with and engage their peers.

Language Proficiency
Proficiency in another language is not required, however in some situations we may give preference to those who have prior experience with foreign language.

ELIGIBILITY

Global Citizen Year requires that all Fellows:

• Are 18 years old by September 30, 2010;
• Have a high school diploma or GED by September 1, 2010;
• Have not yet started college;
• Are US Citizens;
• Pass a basic medical screening
• Provide proof of appropriate insurance;
• Complete and pass a background check;
• Obtain parent or guardian permission for participation.

Applicants who are not yet 18 years of age by September 30, 2010 will be considered and may be selected if circumstances permit.  For these Fellows, there will be additional requirements of the applicant’s legal guardian(s) and apprenticeship placements may be restricted.