The Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellows Summer Institute is an intensive short-term exchange program whose purpose is to foster relationships among young Europeans and Americans to build strong linkages and an awareness of shared values. The program consists 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 are 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.
During the academic residency, participants also have the opportunity to discuss other topics such as democratic practices, conflict resolution, problem solving, communication skills, critical thinking, tolerance and respect for diversity, youth leadership, team building, and the media. The Institute also explores how freedom of expression provides rights to and imposes responsibilities on citizens. Upon their return home, participants implement service projects in their communities and present an alumni project plan to a youth-serving or youth-centered organization in their home country. Candidates nominated for this Fellowship should:

• have citizenship and live permanently in the Republic of Moldova (permanent residents of the Transnistrian region may be considered regardless of citizenship)
• be eligible for a U.S. J-1 visa. Program participants must return to and reside in Moldova for two years after completion of their program;
• be of 18 years old at the time of the program, and born between (for summer 2023 program – to be born between June 25, 2004 and June 24, 2005);
• be highly proficient in English, as demonstrated in a personal interview;
• be committed to enrolling in high school or university in Moldova, following completion of the Institute;
• demonstrate strong leadership potential and interest in transatlantic relations and diplomacy;
• indicate a serious interest in learning about the United States;
• demonstrate a high level of academic achievement, as indicated by academic grades, awards, and teacher recommendations;
• demonstrate a commitment to community and extracurricular activities;
• have had little or no prior U.S. study or travel experience in the United States.