The Meridian-Cox Foreign Service Fellowship for Emerging Leaders is a fully-paid enrichment and training program seeking to expand awareness and access to Foreign Service careers to students from underrepresented communities across the United States.

A partnership among Meridian International Center, the Una Chapman Cox Foundation, and Community Colleges for International Development, the Foreign Service Fellowship provides undergraduate students with insight into American diplomacy while underscoring educational, internship, and career paths within the U.S. Foreign Service.

The program will spotlight the vital work of Foreign Service Officers, while also teaching the critical soft skills necessary to succeed in a diplomatic career. Fellows will enhance their understanding of diplomacy and international affairs through site visits while developing their career development skills through workshops and networking opportunities.

The Fellowship draws upon the Cox Foundation’s commitment to strengthen the U.S. Foreign Service, advances CCID’s work building pathways to global careers at community colleges, and leverages Meridian’s experience developing leadership and diplomatic training for emerging leaders around the world.

The Meridian-Cox Foreign Service Fellowship for Emerging Leaders will take place in Washington, DC, from Sunday, June 23 to Saturday, June 29, 2024. Activities will include a full-day visit to the U.S. Department of State, an interactive two-day diplomatic skills training course, a diplomacy simulation, panel discussions with representatives from the broader U.S. Foreign Service apparatus, and site visits. A tour of Washington monuments and cultural activities will also be included. The fellowship will also include at least one virtual workshop prior to and following the Washington program.

This program was generously underwritten by the Una Chapman Cox Foundation, and Stephanie and Mark Robinson

Fellows are expected to participate fully in all aspects of the fellowship, including attending pre-meetings, participating in the full one-week fellowship, and completing all assignments and surveys.

A committee composed of representatives from Community Colleges for International Development with participation from the Una Chapman Cox Foundation and Meridian International Center will review all applications. Based on the information provided in their applications, a select number of applicants will be asked to participate in a 15-minute phone or video conference interview.

When will I be notified? 

Applicants will be notified of final selection on or before April 24, 2024.

What is the intended outcome of my participation in this fellowship?

• Build knowledge of different Foreign Service career pathways;
• Obtain awareness, tools and network (relationships) to more effectively obtain scholarships, fellowships, and job opportunities with the U.S. Government.
• Understand how diplomatic skills like cultural competency are crucial to the field of international affairs; and,
• Become part of a national network of American students dedicated to international affairs and public service

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is March 20, 2024 at 11:59 PM ET.