The 2024 Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship (BFTF)
The program is scheduled to take place in-person from June 22-July 20, 2024. The four-week program addresses issues including youth engagement, democracy and civil society development, and economic prosperity. The program will be hosted by Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.
The Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship is an intensive short-term exchange program, created to foster relationships among young Europeans and Americans to build strong linkages and an awareness of shared values. The four-week program will enable students, ages 16-18, to explore issues such as youth engagement, support for democracy and civil society, and economic prosperity. The program will consist of a series of lectures, seminar discussions and presentations, and a broad assortment of practical, faculty- and mentor-led workshops. The coursework and classroom activities will be complemented by community service activities, site visits, social and cultural activities, and homestays with American families to deepen participants’ experience of U.S. society during their exchange.
All U.S.-based activities of the exchange will be covered for the participant, as well as international travel expenses. This opportunity is announced pending availability of funds.
Preference will be given to individuals who have not previously traveled to the United States.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- leadership potential
- a commitment to or interest in civic action
- strong academic skills
- strong social skills
- interest in community service.
- strong English skills
Further, applicants must demonstrate interest in pursuing leadership opportunities in their home countries and convey a genuine desire to learn about the United States and its people, society, and institutions.
Participants are expected to fully participate in the academic program and follow-on activities in their home countries.