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Why International Relations Summer Programs?
Joining a summer program in international relations is an exciting way for you to broaden your horizons. These programs help you understand current events, geopolitical shifts, and cultural differences while engaging in complex political and economic challenges. You often find yourself debating issues and presenting your ideas with peers and mentors, which is crucial to strengthening your communication skills. Moreover, the experience substantially boosts your future college applications by showing your genuine interest in global affairs and highlighting your research and leadership abilities. Still interested? We have curated a list of the 5 most popular programs you can join.
Notable Summer Programs for High School Students
1. Harvard Model United Nations (HMUN) Summer Program
Location: Boston, MA
Overview: While HMUN itself is a four-day Model UN simulation in Boston for high schoolers, it’s known for its scale and prestige. Delegates take on the roles of diplomats, debating global issues, negotiating resolutions, and strengthening their public speaking skills in a setting that mirrors real UN committee sessions. The setting is intense: students from over 60 countries attend, so you get exposed to many perspectives. If you join HMUN, expect to prepare thoroughly, interact with peers from very different backgrounds, and leave with sharper research and negotiation skills.
Website: HMUN Summer Program
2. Georgetown University Summer Global Politics Institute
Location: Washington, D.C.
Overview: Georgetown runs several summer high school programs, including the “International Relations Academy” and “Foreign Policy Academy.” In the International Relations Academy, you’ll spend days in classes, group discussions, off-site visits, and international crisis simulations. Topics you’ll cover include ethics, foreign policy tools, intelligence, global health, nuclear weapons, international development, environment, and more.
The Foreign Policy Academy offers engaging lectures, discussions with real policymakers, embassy visits, and collaborative projects, all designed to help you understand how policies are developed and implemented in the U.S. and around the world. You also examine current crises, NGOs, trade, democracy-building, etc.
Website: Georgetown Summer Programs
3. The Model UN Summer Program at Yale University
Location: New Haven, CT
Overview: Yale’s program is a compact, highly interactive experience. It’s a one-week residential institute where you work closely with Yale mentors and students, improving leadership, debate, diplomacy, and Model UN skills. You’ll practice negotiating, public speaking, working in teams, and also build relationships with mentors who guide you through challenging simulations.
Website: Yale Model UN Summer
4. London School of Economics (LSE) Pre-University Summer School – International Relations Track
Location: London, UK
Overview: LSE offers deep academic courses in international relations and related fields (political theory, global governance, etc.). These are undergraduate-level courses taught by LSE faculty. You’ll have lectures, seminars, field visits, a research component, and also participate in a “Spark professional skills programme” to develop skills like writing, policy analysis, and more. Plus, at that point you’ll be in London! The city has a lot to offer, and you’ll be amazed at how much experience you’ll bring back, not just from the program but from every corner of one of the most vibrant cities in the world.
Website: LSE Pre-University Summer School
5. Global Youth Leadership Forum
Location: Various international locations
Overview: GYLF focuses more broadly on leadership, global issues, and youth empowerment. It aims to inspire and equip you to make positive change in your own communities and beyond. You’ll likely take part in simulations, debates, and collaborative projects while also immersing yourself in the local culture of the program’s host location. The network is a big part of it, so you gain both skills and people connections.
Website: Global Youth Leadership Forum
How to Make the Most of a Summer Programs
The best way to fully enjoy a summer full of international relations activities is to come prepared. You might already be doing this if you have an interest in international relations. If you haven’t already, start exploring the global issues you’ll be discussing and sharpen your public speaking skills. Approach your practice with confidence, participate actively in debates, simulations, and workshops, and make your voice stand out by asking thoughtful questions and contributing your ideas. Most importantly, take the opportunity to build meaningful, lasting connections with fellow participants and mentors. These relationships can stick with you long after the program ends. When it’s all over, reflect on what you learned and how you grew, then use those insights in your classes, clubs, and college applications. These programs spark the inspiration that can shape your future in ways you might not expect.
At Aralia Education, we offer the perfect support to best prepare you for not just international relations summer programs, but any programs on your horizon. If you are unsure where to start your journey, we’ve got your back. Just like other students, our network of tutors and mentors is here to make sure you succeed in the journey you choose. Chat with us now!
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