The AFS Intercultural Programs invites applications from talented young women from all backgrounds who reflect the diversity of populations around the world, particularly underrepresented populations, and students with high financial need, for the AFS Global STEM Accelerators Scholarship Program.
AFS Intercultural Programs is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world.
AFS Global STEM Accelerators Program 2022
The AFS Global STEM Accelerators program is an extraordinary, full scholarship program for girls who are active global citizens and energized to help solve some of today’s biggest global challenges. The program is available only via scholarship award.
Women around the world currently make up more than half of the college-educated workforce. However, STEM fields are made up of only 28% women. Women and girls who desire to learn more about STEM often face a challenging set of circumstances in fields that are traditionally dominated by men. (See the American Association of University Women for more details).
That’s why we have created a program dedicated to the future of women in STEM fields. By providing an opportunity for girls from around the world to explore their interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, we can start to change this trend and open up more possibilities for the perspectives of women in the greater goal of reaching a sustainable future.
Benefits of the Global STEM Accelerators program
AFS Global STEM Accelerators are 12-week digital programs (from home), engaging in content on global competence skills, social impact, and sustainability-focused workshops, with content co-developed by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania.
Scholarship winners will participate in 12 week all-virtual programs focusing on emerging and critical STEM skills and fields, global competence education, and social impact (co-developed with the University of Pennsylvania).
Scholars will enrich their STEM knowledge and skills through interactive, hands-on curriculum, while developing critical global competencies, including problem-solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, and the ability to build bridges across cultures.
The program culminates with team projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on climate change and the energy transition.
Scholars who complete the program earn the Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact, awarded by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy.
Eligibility Requirements
Applications for the 2022 AFS Global STEM Accelerators will be open to young women from anywhere in the world who meet the following criteria:
- Applicants must be young women ages 15-17.5 years old at the program start date (Birth dates from December 1, 2004, through June 1, 2007).
- Must be able to participate fully in a classroom setting and program conducted entirely in English.
- Demonstrated interest in sustainability, STEM, and interacting with different cultures.
- Curiosity and willingness to interact with diverse global peers and explore new cultures
Access Requirements
The following technology will be needed to access the Internet in order to participate
- A computer, smartphone or other digital device to access the virtual program content
- An integrated webcam and microphone for participation in online dialogue sessions
- Stable internet or wifi connection
if you are unable to access any of the above, AFS may be able to help.
How the Global STEM Accelerator Scholars Program Curriculum Works
The 12-week virtual program consists of both “live” synchronous activities (dialogue sessions on Zoom with your global peers, with AFS facilitators) each week, as well as self-paced/asynchronous content (online, interactive modules, games, and quizzes).
Over the course of the 12 weeks, you’ll learn about sustainability and social innovation, collaborate with your global peers, and design your very own social impact project–which you’ll record and present digitally to the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy.
Participation will require approximately 3-4 hours of your time each week.
The virtual program is designed to be flexible enough that it can fit around your school schedule.
The live sessions will be offered at multiple times to accommodate diverse time zones and schedules.
Participants will be able to indicate desired scheduling preferences for the live sessions.
Please be advised that participation in the virtual curriculum is mandatory for all Global STEM Accelerator scholars.
Application Deadline
The 12-week all-virtual Global STEM Accelerators program will run from June 23, 2022 – September 18, 2022.
Applications will open on April 1 2022.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can apply online at AFS Global STEM Accelerator scholars official website: https://afs.org/global-stem/accelerators/