How many students are invited?
The number of students that are invited to apply varies each year depending on
the number of recommendations we receive. We select 40 local students for our
local delegation from surrounding schools, and interest and entrance can be very
competitive. Some delegations are full within a few days of the information
meeting. Delegates will be placed in their local delegation based on their
application date. Students with the earliest application dates are more likely
to be placed in the local delegation.
How does People to People select students?
All students must submit an application, obtain three letters of recommendation,
and participate in an interview with the local teacher-leaders. Once accepted,
students attend between 4 and 6 orientation meetings to prepare for travel.
What does People to People look for in the interview?
Whether making a good impression in a school visit overseas, meeting local
citizens, or attending a briefing with a government representative, Ambassadors
are expected to leave a positive, lasting impression of our country and culture.
This Ambassadorial spirit is one of the things that sets the People to People
experience apart: our Student Ambassadors are both students of the world and
teachers of our own culture.
What is the student interview like?
A typical interview lasts about 20 minutes. Some interviews are held in a
small-group setting, while others are completed individually. During that time,
the student will meet with the interview committee, which consists of local
adults. The interview is a chance for the committee members to get to know the
student and to learn why he or she wants to travel with People to People. Some
of the questions might include, “Why are you interested in becoming a Student
Ambassador?” or “What are you hoping to gain from this experience?” or “Do you
work well with others?” Telephone interviews will be conducted for students who
live a great distance from their leaders, or for students who are unable to
attend the scheduled interview times