Any applicants currently enrolled at an American university should complete the American Delegates application. This includes both US and International students. If you are an international citizen and are currently enrolled in, recently (within 1 year) graduated from, or will soon (within 1 year) be enrolled in an international university, please apply to be an International Delegate. Contact american@theges.org or international@theges.org with any questions.
FAQ
When is GES?
The Summit takes place April 14-18, 2010, at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.
Where is GES?
GES is held at the Norris Student Center on Northwestern University’s Campus in Evanston, Illinois.
Why should I come?
We like to think that GES provides its delegates with three things:
- A greater capacity to create change in the world
- Access to new resources to translate great ideas into action
- The chance to join a community of passionate young change makers
We encourage all those interested to apply. Delegate projects in all stages will be appropriate for content at the Summit. Please take a minute to search our site; read about GES’s history, hear stories of past delegates, and explore the opportunities available both during and after the Summit.
What is an International delegate?
An international delegate is a student currently studying at a foreign university, outside of the United States.
What is an American delegate?
An American delegate is a student currently studying at a university in the United States. The individual’s nationality does not matter (i.e. you could have been born in America or internationally, as long as you currently study within the United States). Thus, international students who are studying at American universities should apply using the American Delegate application.
What is Engage Chicago?
All delegates are encouraged to participate in Engage Chicago, a three-day pre-summit program. During Engage Chicago, delegates will volunteer with communities and non-profits in the Chicago area. Engage Chicago takes place before the Summit begins, starting on the evening of Sunday, April 5th, 2010.
What type of people (students and/or speakers) come to GES?
GES brings people from over 40 countries, 50 universities, and 35 global non-profits. Our delegates are young social entrepreneurs with ideas, energy, and determination to put their projects into action.
How much will it cost?
GES has a registration cost of $75, to cover food (breakfast and lunch daily, some dinners) and transportation costs to and from the airport. All personal costs including dinner and public transportation costs will be incurred by the delegate.
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available and will be awarded on a case by case basis to cover some/all of the cost of the summit and travel expenses. Once delegates are accepted, they will be sent a financial aid application. However, accepted delegates are encouraged to seek funding from their own universities first.
How can I ask my university for funding?
Once you are accepted to GES, our staff can work with you to petition for funding from your university to cover travel costs.
How selective is admissions?
GES is quite competitive. Between 50-60 American delegates are accepted; between 15-20 International delegates are accepted.
Do I have to stay for the entire Summit?
Yes, as a delegate, you must stay for the duration of the Summit. The GES curriculum is designed in such a way that it builds upon itself from day to day. The GES experience will be most valuable if you are in attendance for all aspects of the Summit. If you have an extenuating circumstance, do not be discouraged from applying; please email info@theges.org well in advance for any questions.
What are accommodations like?
Both American and International delegates will be housed by GES staff or Northwestern students in a “homestay” setting. Between 1-3 delegates will be housed together in each homestay location. Speakers, facilitators and organization representatives will be housed at an Evanston hotel.
What about Passover and/or Easter?
We realize that some of our delegates may typically spend the holidays at home with their families. However, we thought it would provide us an exciting opportunity to explore the ways in which faith impacts our motivations for service. For those interested, there will be both Jewish and Christian services. The Summit schedule will accommodate these services, so those attending them will not miss out on essential Summit activity. Details TBD.
Can high school students attend GES?
Unfortunately, no. In general, we do not accept high school students. However, we have had a few exceptions over the years. If you have an overwhelming interest in attending, please contact us.
Can I attend GES if I’m not a registered delegate?
Yes, but not for the entirety of the Summit. Workshop “guest passes” will become available in the weeks preceding the event.
Who is eligible for the outcome opportunities?
All delegates are eligible for the outcome opportunities if they choose to apply.
What happens after the Summit?
By taking part in the Summit, you will have access to a GES alumni community and resource network that tries to support youth-led endeavors. The GES website – in addition to other social networking tools – will provide a gateway to connection with your fellow GES attendees.
What are the “key” dates to remember?
December 15th, 2009: International delegate applications due
December 30th, 2009: American delegate applications due
April 14-18, 2009: The Global Engagement Summit