GVPT Undergraduate Newsletter

1. PeacePlayers International Summer Internship

PeacePlayers International is an innovative international non-profit organization that uses the game of basketball to unite and educate children in divided and underserved communities. PPI is now searching for a development intern in its Washington, DC, headquarters. The intern will work in partnership with the Development Team and report to the Special Project Assistant.

Qualifications:
•    Rising junior or senior class status
•    Commitment to PPI’s mission and strategic vision;
•    Enthusiasm, energy and persistence;
•    Excellent organizational and leadership skills;
•    Strong writing and communication skills;
•    Willingness to learn and to be coached;
•    Set an example through personal commitment, interest, involvement; and
•    Strong understanding of the priorities, benefits, and opportunities associated with PPI’s programming.

Responsibilities:
•    Creating press kits and managing press clipping files
•    Assisting with donor database management and correspondence
•    Attending strategy meetings and donor cultivation meeting as appropriate
•    Participate in PPI staff meetings, when available
•    Researching development opportunities
•    Event planning and preparation
•    Special projects as necessary
•    Various administrative and communications functions, including assisting with Internet and social media marketing efforts

Interns will be expected to work 15-30 hours per week at PPI’s headquarters in downtown Washington. Interested students should email a resume and cover letter to apply@peaceplayersintl.org with “Intern Application” in the subject line.

2. Federal Semester Internship Program

Interested in how federal policy is set in Washington? See for yourself! Become part of a small cohort of engaged students. Take a seminar on federal policy in the fall; participate in a Washington internship for college credit in the spring. Rising juniors and seniors, of any major, are welcome to apply. This selective, year-long program is sponsored by the Office of Undergraduate Studies and intended to add value to your major. It is a fabulous educational experience and a great item for your resume!

In fall 2009, we are offering three Federal Semester seminars: Federal Health Policy, with Professor Elaine Anderson (UNIV 348P, Tuesday/Thursday 11:00 a.m.-12:15); U.S. Policy in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, with Professor Paul Scham (UNIV 348M, Tuesday/Thursday 9:30 a.m.-10:45); and Homeland Security Policy, with Senior Policy Analyst Magdalena Bajll (UNIV 348T, course time TBD, in evening).

In spring 2010, Federal Semester students will intern in a wide variety of places, including congressional offices, federal agencies, lobbying firms, think-tanks, and advocacy organizations. Internship credit may be taken through UNIV 349 or under the course number offered for internships in the student€™s major program. Federal Semester activities include workshops, trips to Capitol Hill (including meetings with officials at FEMA, HHS, DHS, the State Dept.), and conversations with leaders of public policy. Guidance is provided on securing and participating in Washington internships.

Apply now! For details and application form, go to: http://www.federalsemester.umd.edu

3. Internship Scholarship

University Career Center and the President's Promise
Summer Internship Scholarships!

Have you been offered a wonderful unpaid summer internship and concerned about finances?

The University Career Center and the President's Promise are accepting applications for financial need based scholarships to help offset expenses while furthering your academic and career goals on a summer internship. This scholarship is open to ALL MAJORS. Awards will be based on financial need and will average between $500 - $1,000.

Eligible Candidates
All registered University of Maryland, College Park undergraduate students who are returning to campus in September 2009 are eligible to apply. Graduating seniors (May 2009) are not eligible. Preference will be given to rising juniors and seniors and to those who have not previously received an award.

Application Procedures
Fill out the application form available at:

https://umd-csm.symplicity.com/events/register.php?&

Besides the online application, students must submit a Student Statement of Agreement as well as a Supervisor Statement of Agreement.

Forms must be returned to the University Career Center by Friday, May 1st via fax, 301.314.9114, or by dropping off at 3100 Hornbake Library, South Wing.

Application Timeline
Deadline: Friday, May 1st
Award Recipients Notified: Monday, May 11

4. NARAL Summer Internship

Communications Intern for NARAL

NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland is seeking a communications intern to provide technical support, help with on-line outreach efforts, and assistance with general oral and written communications.

Responsibilities:

Create thought-provoking and relevant entries on NPCM’s blog on a daily basis
Compile, write, and distribute summaries of daily clips of choice-related news from a variety of news sources
Assist with the production of monthly e-newsletters- Maintain MySpace and Facebook profiles and track membership details
Update website
Write press releases
Expand internet outreach efforts
Assist with pro-choice event planning including our annual fall fundraiser
Help staff with day-to-day office operations

Qualified applicants will:

Possess excellent writing, research, and editing skills
Have strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher, and Microsoft Excel
Be a self starter who can take initiative on individual projects- Possess strong organizational/multi-tasking skills and have an ability to meet deadlines on time
Be able to work well alone and in cooperative decision-making settings
Support the full range of reproductive options for women including birth control, bearing healthy children, adoption, and safe, legal abortion.

Scheduling is flexible based on applicant’s schedule. A minimum of 15 hours per week is required; however, a commitment of 20-30 hours per week is preferred. Start date: June 1, 2009.

Application instructions: Send a current resume and letter of interest by May 8, 2009 to Melissa Kleder, NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland, 8121 Georgia Ave, Suite 501, Silver Spring, MD 20910 or email Melissa@prochoicemd.org .

Programs Intern for NARAL

NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland is seeking a programs intern to provide to work on a variety of issues, provide staff support, and learn the inner workings of a non-profit organization.

Responsibilities:

Help staff conduct educational outreach activities about relevant choice issues including, but not limited to, tabling events, job/volunteer fairs, campus rallies, etc.
Conduct research on various reproductive health issues
Work with staff to develop and implement a grassroots-organizing plan and establish goals relating to that plan
Help with acquisition of new members and updating membership information
Planning and implementing social networking events and frequent fundraisers

Qualified applicants will:

Possess excellent writing, research, and editing skills
Have strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher, and Microsoft Excel
Be a self starter who can take initiative on individual projects- Possess strong organizational/multi-tasking skills and have an ability to meet deadlines on time
Be able to work well alone and in cooperative decision-making settings
Support the full range of reproductive options for women including birth control, bearing healthy children, adoption, and safe, legal abortion.

Scheduling is flexible based on applicant’s schedule. A minimum of 15 hours per week is required; however, a commitment of 20-30 hours per week is preferred. Start date: June 1, 2009

Application instructions: Send a current resume and letter of interest May 8, 2009 to Melissa Kleder, NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland, 8121 Georgia Ave, Suite 501, Silver Spring, MD 20910 or email melissa@prochoicemd.org.

5. Art at Art Attack

You can help bring the art back to Art Attack!

This year, SEE is working to bring the art back to Art Attack! We will be displaying student artwork in a tent by the ODK Fountain during the day events for Art Attack XXVI. If you would like to have your art displayed, please e-mail seeperformingarts@umd.edu for an application form. Applications are due by April 20.

6. Multicultural Health Fair

Multicultural Health Fair in STAMP Charles Carroll Room April 20th:

Become a marrow donor with the Gift of Life and the National Marrow Campaign, sign-up at www.marylandhillel.org/healthfair2009. Want to be a volunteer? Email rbriks@umd.edu. Also, get FREE genetic testing for 9 common genetic diseases found in Jewish people, be proactive for your future. For more info. email mneuman@marylandhillel.org.

7. Study Abroad News

Study Abroad News:

1. Scholarships for Seniors to Study in China!

2. National Yang-Ming University Summer 2009 Programs

3. Asian American Business Conference

4. FREE Masters Degree in Israel!

5. MEI Summer Mentor Positions – PAID!

6. Get Ready…Winter 2010 Programs Will Start Accepting Applications May 1!

Scholarships for Study in China

Scholarships will be awarded competitively to graduating undergraduate seniors for one or more years of study at a Chinese university at the Master’s or doctoral level. Scholarships are available for up to two years of Master’s study, and up to three years of doctoral study for students with a Master’s degree or equivalent. Students applying for the scholarships must be available to begin their scholarship programs fall of 2009. Before beginning their academic programs, scholarship recipients may be provided one to two years of remedial Chinese language studies in China , depending on the initial language ability of those students. Student proposals leading to the completion of a degree are encouraged but not required.

In addition to Master’s and Doctoral awards, scholarships are also available for study at the bachelor’s level. The AAU/Chinese Scholarship Program is targeted on AAU university undergraduate seniors interested in graduate study at a Chinese university, but the program is also open to undergraduate students who would like to study at a Chinese university as an undergraduate for one or more years. The overall program is designed to be a flexible program that will meet students’ needs and interests.

The scholarship program will cover tuition and fees, provide dormitory housing and a living allowance. Scholarship students will be required to meet the cost of travel to and from China .

The China Scholarship Council will select scholarship recipients from the pool of applicants from AAU universities. Applicants can name three Chinese universities as their preferred institutions for their program of study.

Applications should be submitted by April 20 to AAU at the following address :

AAU/Chinese Scholarship Program

Association of American Universities

1200 New York Avenue, NW, Suite 550

Washington, DC 20005

AAU will transmit the applications to the Chinese embassy, which will review the applications to see that eligibility requirements are met. The Embassy will then transmit the applications to the China Scholarship Council, which will carry out the formal selection process.

Applications must be received by the China Scholarship Council by April 30. Applications therefore should be received by AAU by April 20 to allow time for transmission to the Chinese Embassy for their review and transmission to the China Scholarship Council in Beijing.

You can download the application form and physical exam form. Additional information about the Chinese Government Scholarship Program may be accessed by going to www.csc.edu.cn , clicking on the English version, then selecting “Study in China” in the heading, and then selecting the second bullet in the options displayed, APPLICATION PROCEDURES FOR CHINESE GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIP .

Specific questions about the program should be directed to Mr. Jiangyi Liu at jiangyiliu@yahoo.com.cn or 202-328-2535.

Summer Program on Traditional Medicine, Taiwanese Culture and Art

The National Yang-Ming University is offering a summer program on Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taiwanese culture, and art. The program seeks to introduce to international students to these topics. Courses are taught in English and includes on-site visits after lessons. Program highlights:

Basic knowledge of traditional medicine, especially acupuncture, acupoints, meridians, and Chinese herb therapy. In addition, students can also learn how practitioners apply ying-yang and five elements to the therapy of traditional medicine.
Lectures are taught by well-experienced professors who also diagnose patients in the clinic.
Overview of Chinese culture and arts, ex. pottery, literature, history, etc.
Interaction with Taiwanese and international students.

To apply for the NYMU TMTCA program, applicants must be full-time students and proficient in English.

Program Dates: July 13rd – August 21st 2009

Students who complete all programs can obtain a certificate issued by the Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang-Ming University. Courses include lectures and observation. Students who complete the lecture portion of the course can obtain 5 credits and students who complete the observations can obtain an additional 1 credit.

Required documents:

1. TMTCA application form

2. Reference letter from supervisor or director of home university

3. Transcript

4. Certificate of Health

5. Certificate of Enrollment from home university

6. Two identical photographs taken within the past six months

Application deadline: June 15, 2009. All materials required for the application must be sent to the following address before the deadline:

Center of International Affairs

National Yang-Ming University

No. 155, Sec. 2, Li-Nong St., Beitou, Taipei 11221, Taiwan (R.O.C.)

Tuition: Tuition will be waived for University of Maryland students!

In addition, if students want to join the optional program of Taiwanese Cultural and Art, there is an NT$3,000 (US$100) fee for site visits and travel. Download: Application Form, Program Prospectus . Questions? Contact: Tom Jiang (khjiang@ym.edu.tw), TEL: 886-2-2826-7000# 2109, or check out the Website: http://issue.ym.edu.tw/cia/new/

Asian-American Business Conference - May 5!

Worried about what to do after graduation? Attend a job fair at the Asian-American Business Conference to meet potential employers and explore your options! The event, which will feature Asian-American owned businesses from across Maryland, will take place on Tuesday, May 5 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. in Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center. No RSVP is necessary - just show up, network, and enjoy! To learn more, visit http://www.asian.md.gov/businessconference.html.

Study at the Shalom Hartman Institute/ Free Masters Degree at Tel Aviv University

The Melamdim School for Teacher Education, a fully-funded two-year graduate program, comprises intensive Jewish studies at Shalom Hartman Institute's Jerusalem campus, a Masters Degree at Tel Aviv University in Tanakh or Jewish Thought, and hands-on teaching experience in North American and Israeli high schools. Melamdim provides distinguished graduate students from Israel and North America with intensive training in the philosophical foundations of Judaism and the pedagogical skills required to turn high school Jewish education into a transformative experience. Students receive:

· FULL TUITION for Tel Aviv University and the Shalom Hartman Institute

· Tuition for Hebrew Ulpanim

· $10,000 a year living stipend

· Airfare for student-teaching in North America

Applicants should have strong Hebrew and training in Jewish texts. Click HERE for the Melamdim website. For further information please email Joshua Ladon at josh@shi.org.il.

Summer Student Mentor Positions Announcement

The Maryland English Institute (MEI) at the University of Maryland College Park is offering three Student Mentor positions for a two-week English and American Culture program for undergraduate students from Japan, August 1 – 14, 2009.

POSITION DESCRIPTION: The primary responsibilities of Student Mentors are to escort participants throughout the program, serve as cultural interpreters, and contribute to making the program a successful and enjoyable experience. Mentors are responsible for accompanying students on field trips and excursions, participating in extracurricular activities, and assisting with and participating in social activities such as a welcome reception and a closing ceremony. Mentor positions require a substantial commitment, flexibility, and active involvement throughout the two-week program. During the week, activities are generally scheduled in the afternoon or evening, with some taking place on campus and others off campus in the Washington, DC area. On weekends, mentors must be available for day excursions to sites such as Annapolis and Baltimore. Mentors will also be responsible for meeting participants at the airport upon their arrival and escorting them to the airport upon their departure.

QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates must be undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens who exhibit cultural sensitivity and possess excellent intercultural communication and leadership skills they can apply to explain U.S. culture, society and customs to participants.

COMPENSATION: Mentors are paid $1,200 and are given a Metro fare card to use for scheduled program activities. No other benefits, such as food and lodging, are offered.

HOW TO APPLY: To apply, submit the following as email attachments:

Cover letter that includes your name and contact information and a statements of: 1) why you are interested in the position, 2) any experience you have had that you think helps prepare you to serve in this position, and 3) your availability to serve in this position if it is offered to you.
A current resume that highlights any relevant experience.
Names, phone numbers and email contacts of two references who are familiar with your organizational and communication abilities.

Send your application materials to lsahin@umd.edu by April 18, 2008.

Winter 2010 – Get Ready!

Believe it or not, you can start applying for Winter 2010 study abroad programs online on May 1! We have an amazing array of programs being offered this winter, to all corners of the globe. So plan ahead and make your winter term one you will never forget!

8. Civic Engagement Lunch

LUNCH AND LEARN - CIVIC ENGAGEMENT IN OUR COURSES: THE STUDENTS' PERSPECTIVE

When: Wednesday, April 15, 2009 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Where: Stamp Student Union: Juan Ramon Jimenez, 2nd Floor

What does civic engagement mean to fellow students? How does civic engagement in courses contribute to YOUR learning? Come check out a student panel on civic engagement in academic courses (lunch will be served!). Panelists will be students who have taken courses that integrate civic engagement across the spectrum of disciplines. ALL ARE WELCOME!

RSVP to cte@umd.edu so we can plan for the lunch. Bring your teachers and friends. For further information, contact Dr. Barbara Jacoby, bjacoby@umd.edu, 301.314.7253. Workshop sponsored by the Coalition for Civic Engagement and Leadership, Center for Teaching Excellence, Adele H. Stamp Student Union, Undergraduate Studies, and Academy for Excellence in Teaching and Learning.

9. Focus Group- FREE BREAKFAST

We're seeking your opinions. Over the last couple of months the University has been thinking long and hard about the University of Maryland brand. Why is UM the school of choice for our stakeholders (in this case, students)? What makes us unique, compelling and differentiated as a University? How do we articulate that in a simple way?

We'd very much like to hear from you on this topic and are inviting you to attend a focus group session. These will be very informal-just a way of gathering intelligence and insights about the brand from undergrads and grad students.

These session will take place on Wednesday, April 15 in the Margaret Brent Room in The Stamp. Breakfast will be served.

8:30 to 9:30am - Graduate Students

9:30 to 10:30am - Undergraduate Students

If you are interested in sharing your opinion, please respond to this email or give me a call at X46550. If you know of any other students who might be interested in being part of this process, please feel free to forward this email to them. We're looking for about 15 to 20 students in each group.

10. SGA Spring BBQ

SGA PROUDLY PRESENTS: SPRING BBQ 2009

Come eat dinner with your friends on McKeldin Mall on Friday, April 17th from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.

Tickets will be $8.95 for EVERYONE and will be available starting WEDNESDAY APRIL 1st.

Buy them in the North and South Campus Dining Halls, the Union Shop and Commons Shop.
People with dining points can use them to purchase their ticket!

MENU:
Grilled BBQ Chicken
Grilled Hot Dogs
Vegan Burgers
Condiments: diced onions, relish, mustard & ketchup
BBQ Baked Beans
Potato Salad
Cole Slaw
Corn on the Cob
Rolls
Brownies
Lemonade
Iced Tea

NOTE: The South Campus Dining Hall will be CLOSED after lunch time. If you plan on eating dinner, you MUST buy a ticket ahead of time!!!

There are only a limited number of tickets available, so get yours fast!

Join the Facebook event at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=58865034666.

After the event, grab your pillow and join us back on the Mall as we attempt to break the World Record for the World's Largest Pillow Fight! We need 4,000 people, so bring everyone you know!

11. Maryland Parents Association Student Scholarship Award

Applications are currently being accepted for the Maryland Parents Association Student Scholarship Award. The scholarship was established to provide assistance to undergraduate students in good standing who may be unable to continue their education at the University due to extenuating personal or family financial circumstances. A scholarship of up to $1000 (per student) will be awarded for the 2009-2010 academic year. Click on the following link to access the award criteria, application form and instructions: http://www.terpparent.umd.edu/website/downloads/MPAStudentScholarshipAward_2009application.pdf Applications are due no later than 5:00 p.m. on May 1, 2009. If you have any questions regarding the award, contact the Office of Parent and Family Affairs at 301.314.8429 or parents@umd.edu.

12. Tilman Military Scholarship

The Division of Student Affairs is seeking qualified applicants for the Tillman Military Scholarship at the University of Maryland. The scholarships are sponsored by the Pat Tillman Foundation “Leadership Through Action ^TM” initiative, which is dedicated to supporting educational opportunities for service members and their families. Veteran and active service members and their dependents (children and spouses) portray the very nature of leadership that the Foundation seeks to inspire in young people across the country. The scholarships will ensure these leaders have every opportunity to pursue broader educational goals. The Tillman Military Scholarships at the University of Maryland are intended to cover direct study-related expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and room and board as well as other needs such as child care.

Who is eligible to apply for a Leadership Through Action™ Tillman Military Scholarship at the University of Maryland?

Veteran and active service members of both pre- and post-9/11 service
Service members who wish to start, finish, or further their education
Those whose benefits have run out or exceeded need
Service members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Reserve
Service members pursuing undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate degrees
Dependants of service members (children and spouses)
Those whose benefits are not transferable from their mother/father/husband/wife
Those who are survivors of a service member
Those whose transferable benefits are not sufficient
Dependents who wish to start, finish, or further their education
Dependents pursuing undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate, 2-year, 4-year, vocational, and trade degrees or certifications

What criteria will be considered for awarding the Leadership Through Action™ Tillman Military Scholarships?

Unmet financial need
Educational and career ambitions
Length of service
Record of personal achievement
Compelling, thoughtful, genuine, and thorough essay question responses
Demonstration of service to others in the community and a desire to continue such service

Annual renewability will be considered for most scholarships based on proof of GPA earned and minimum annual enrollment of 24 credit hours, as well as, documented participation in civic action or community service.

Applications will be available March 30, 2009 at www.stamp.umd.edu/tillman/

Application and all supporting materials must be postmarked by April 27, 2009. Materials may be mailed or delivered to Dr. Marsha Guenzler-Stevens, 0110 Stamp Student Union, College Park, MD 20742. For questions or additional information, contact mguenzle@umd.edu or 301-314-8505.

For additional information about the Pat Tillman Foundation, check out pattillmanfoundation.org/

13. START Undergraduate Career Development Program

START is now accepting applications for its Undergraduate Career Development Program for students at the University of Maryland, College Park, who are interested in pursuing careers in the field of homeland security. The program will provide high-achieving students who have pursued curriculum relevant to homeland security with professional development opportunities designed to help ensure that they are well prepared for pursuing careers in this field. In addition, students who participate in this program will receive generous financial support to off-set a portion of the costs of their education at Maryland.

Undergraduate participants in the START Career Development Program will be provided:

A START Undergraduate Scholarship of $15,000 towards tuition, room and board, and fees for one academic year
Support for travel to and registration at one relevant professional conference
One-on-one mentoring with a professional in the homeland security arena and from the leadership of the START Center
Meetings with officials from the public and private sector working in positions related to homeland security
Active involvement in a research project related to improving understanding of the human causes and consequences of terrorism
In return, participating students will commit to working for a minimum of one year in the homeland security arena, following graduation

Eligibility Requirements:

The START Career Development Program is available to highly qualified students enrolled full-time at the University of Maryland, College Park, who have completed coursework related to homeland security generally and/or terrorism studies specifically. The program is designed for students who will be starting their junior or senior years in August 2009. Students enrolled in Maryland’s Undergraduate Minor in Terrorism Studies are encouraged to apply, but the program will not be exclusive to this cohort, and students from any College within the College Park campus are eligible. Students from traditionally underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply. In addition, eligible students must meet the following criteria:

Agreement to commit a minimum of one year (12 months) of employment in the homeland security workforce (in the public, private, or non-profit sector) following graduation;
Maintenance of an overall GPA of 3.3 or higher, with a 3.5 GPA or higher in homeland-security relevant courses (as determined by the selection committee); and
Possession of U.S. citizenship.

A total of 4 undergraduate students will be selected for participation in this program for the Fall 2009-2010 Academic Year.

Applications are due Monday April 20, 2009, at 5:00 pm.

The newsletter is sent out on Fridays to all current University of Maryland students who have declared and been accepted into the GVPT major. Only information relevant to academic and extra-curricular opportunities for these students will be sent through the newsletter. The government advising office reserves the right to edit and review all submissions to the GVPT newsletter and deny any submissions at their sole discretion.

If you would like to submit information or announcements, please email ADVISING@gvpt.umd.edu. Only those submissions which are denied or delayed will be contacted further.