Study of the U.S. Institute for Student Leaders on Civic Engagement (SUSI)

Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) are short-term academic programs for groups of undergraduate leaders, educators, and scholars from around the world. The Study of the US Institute (SUSI) for Student Leaders on Civic Engagement includes 20 undergraduates from the Eurasia region each summer and 20 from the Southern Africa region each winter. Study of the U.S. Institutes promote a better understanding of the people, institutions, and culture of the United States among students, teachers, and scholars.

During the 5-week program, the group spends one month in Seattle to build their network, study civic engagement, and participate in volunteer activities, leadership workshops, and cultural excursions. Then, each group takes part in a short study tour to Kansas City, MO or Atlanta, GA.

Throughout the program, participants take part in intensive project planning seminars to prepare them to develop and lead projects that benefit their home communities.

This is a program of the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, with funding provided by the U.S. Government, and administered by Meridian International Center.

For more general information about the FIUTS SUSI program, please contact FIUTS Manger of Education Programs, Olena Vlasova.

Get Involved

College and university students in the Seattle area can get involved in SUSI programs by applying to be a SUSI Ambassador. Ambassadors are a critical piece of the program and act as peer mentors, cultural liaisons, friends and student leaders. SUSI Ambassadors learn new skills, build their resume, make international friends and have fun! Apply to be an Ambassador here.

If you have questions about the Ambassador program, please contact FIUTS Program Specialist, Nada Ramadan.

Community Members

Community Members are invited to join public programs (found on our events calendar) or to host one or more SUSI participants for one week, helping them to learn about U.S. culture and connect with local people. On the final evening, all hosts are invited to join the group for dinner to celebrate the program and enjoy presentations from student participants.