Student Programs

SFS Ambassadors is a student-led initiative that provides a vital link between the student body and the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) team. Ambassadors help the office stay attuned to the evolving needs, concerns, and aspirations of the SFS student community. They represent the school at local high schools and recruitment events, co-host community mixers and identity-based gatherings, and support new prospective students during GAAP weekend. Ambassadors also contribute to the design of DEI programs that enhance the academic and social experience for all SFS students.

• Must be an undergraduate student currently enrolled in SFS
• Have a strong commitment to representing the diversity of the SFS community
• Possesses willingness to dedicate 1-2 hours a week to outreach activities
• All programs and activities are open to all Georgetown University students regardless of race, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected under university policy or applicable law.

Applications to become an SFS Ambassador are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the academic year. If you are interested in applying or would like to learn more about the program, please contact Carmen Danley, Program Manager for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiatives, at cd1271@georgetown.edu.

The SFS Board Mentorship Program (BMP) connects junior or senior undergraduate students with experienced SFS Board of Advisors members to provide invaluable mentorship and career guidance. Through these connections, students gain insight into career pathways in international affairs, global leadership, and public service.

The program is designed to benefit students who are interested in exploring opportunities in the field and who may have had limited exposure to mentorship or professional networks in international affairs. Mentors provide guidance, share industry knowledge, and help students navigate their academic and professional journeys with confidence.

Areas of focus 

We have five key areas of focus for matching mentees and mentors. Please note that mentoring is not limited to these areas: 

• Industry information
• Career interests and advice 
• Professional opportunities
• Balancing career and family 
• Post-graduate educational opportunities 

• Open to graduate students or undergraduate students in their junior or senior year.
• Students must be from diverse backgrounds (including racial, ethnic, and religious minorities, LGBTQ+ students, first-generation students, international students and students with disabilities).
• Must demonstrate a strong interest in global leadership and career development.

• Applications for the BMP open at the end of each fall semester and close during winter break. Matches are announced during the start of the spring semester.
• To apply, you must submit a completed application form and a statement of interest outlining your career goals and why you would benefit from a mentor relationship.

SFS Board Mentorship Program (BMP) mentors are members of the SFS Board of Advisors who intentionally invest their time in facilitating students’ successful preparation for and progression into a postgraduate career by consulting them on topics relevant to their unique developmental opportunities.

Mentoring expectations 

Under the guidance of the Dean’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, mentors participate in planned events and engage with mentees monthly. Each mentor sets personal goals for the success of the mentoring relationship. The mentor guides mentees, using their experiences to offer perspective and inform mentees about various opportunities for career development and guidance. The mentees take responsibility for their own growth and success. Both the mentor and the mentee must maintain confidentiality in the relationship. 

The formal mentoring relationship will conclude after one year. After one year, mentees and mentors can opt to continue their relationship on an informal basis. 

Mentor responsibilities

• Meet with your mentee in person, via Zoom, on the telephone and through text communication
• Willingly share your experience, “lessons learned” and professional success 
• Stay accessible, committed and engaged throughout the program 
• Seek experiences that will challenge the mentee (e.g., shadowing during meetings, readings, etc.) 
• Provide mentees with internship suggestions or referrals to help them progress in their careers
• Listen, offer encouragement and provide candid feedback through genuine positive reinforcement 
• Be a positive role model, resource and sounding board

Benefits to mentors

• Gain a sense of fulfillment from helping to shape the next generation of global leaders
• Develop a deeper understanding of emerging talent and diverse perspectives in international affairs
• Contribute to a more inclusive and diverse professional field, enriching the global affairs sector
• Give back to the School of Foreign Service community

Mentee responsibilities

• Take ownership of your mentoring relationship by setting clear goals and regularly communicating with your mentor
• Be proactive in seeking advice, asking questions and following through on suggestions
• Attend any events, workshops or networking opportunities offered through the program
• Respect confidentiality and remain engaged throughout the program

Benefits to mentees

• Receive personalized career guidance and advice tailored to your aspirations and challenges
• Build a strong professional network with access to influential leaders in international affairs
• Develop a deeper understanding of the skills, experiences and qualifications required for success in your chosen field

The SFS Peer Mentorship Program provides guidance and support to first-year students as they transition into Georgetown’s college life. This program matches new students with returning undergraduate student mentors who have firsthand experience navigating Georgetown’s academic environment and campus life. Students are matched with a mentor based on shared academic interests, extracurricular involvement, and personal preferences to support their transition to Georgetown.

Through this program, you will gain the tools and confidence to succeed in your first year at SFS, both academically and socially. Peer mentors will help you adjust to the university’s culture, navigate campus resources, and participate in extracurricular activities. The program fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where every student is valued and empowered.

• Open to all incoming first-year undergraduate students
• It is especially beneficial for students from underrepresented backgrounds (racial, ethnic, and religious minorities, LGBTQ+ students, first-generation college students, international students, veterans, and students with disabilities)
• Students should be committed to actively engaging in the program and attending events

• First-year students can apply via the SFS DEI Office website. You will be matched with a mentor based on shared academic interests, extracurricular activities and personal preferences
• After applying, you will receive an email confirmation with details about your mentor and the program’s next steps

PMP mentors are undergraduate juniors and seniors from various majors. As a mentor, you must be in good academic and institutional standing, with a minimum 3.25 GPA. To be a mentor, you must be selected and trained to support first-year students facing various challenges. Serving as a mentor allows you to build your skill set as an exceptional student leader and to work closely with SFS staff. 

Mentor responsibilities

• Meet with your mentee regularly (at least five hours per month) to provide guidance, answer questions and support their adjustment to college life
• Attend mentor training and participate in regular meetings with other mentors
• Complete a monthly mentorship activity log
• Stay accessible, committed and engaged for the length of the program 
• Work with your mentee to create personal, professional and academic goals for your mentee’s first year in college
• Provide support and encouragement where needed and help point your mentee to campus resources and involvement opportunities

Benefits to mentors

• Receive a stipend at the end of the semester
• Strengthen leadership and communication skills
• Gain satisfaction from helping first-year students succeed and thrive
• Establish meaningful connections with incoming students and contribute to fostering a welcoming environment at Georgetown
• Receive training on how to handle different situations

Once accepted into the program, first-year students are paired with a junior or senior as a peer mentor. As a mentee, you will be matched with peer mentors based on several criteria and preferences (identity, academic interests, hobbies and extracurricular activities).

Mentee responsibilities

• Meet with your mentor regularly and maintain communication throughout the year. You must interact with your mentor at least three times per month
• Be proactive in asking for guidance and support in academic, social and personal areas
• Attend at least two events or workshops organized for peer mentors and mentees per semester 
• Take ownership of your first-year experience by setting goals and following through with your mentor’s support
• Express commitment to the program
• Complete end-of-semester evaluation

Benefits to mentees

• Access resources, advice and networks to help you succeed during your first year
• Build strong relationships with upper-level students and other incoming students
• Gain confidence in managing academic and social life at Georgetown

The SFS Future Global Leaders Fellowship is an immersive, week-long summer program that introduces high school students to the complex world of international relations and global affairs. 

Our program, held on the Georgetown Hilltop campus, combines rigorous academic study with hands-on learning experiences, including field trips and an international crisis simulation, to help you explore the multifaceted nature of global service. 

Our fellowship offers complete scholarships that cover the costs of participating in one of our summer academies, Washington & the World Academy and International Relations Academy, each of which will help you explore key issues in modern international affairs and global service. 

Throughout the program, you’ll engage with professors, practitioners and peers to deepen your understanding of the world’s most pressing challenges, from international diplomacy to human rights. Our program also provides a unique opportunity to live on campus, offering you a glimpse into university life while developing your leadership skills in a global context.

We encourage high school sophomores, juniors and seniors with a strong interest in global affairs to apply. Students accepted to our SFS Future Global Leaders Fellowship are awarded full scholarships covering all program costs.

• A rising high school sophomore, junior or senior
• Reside in the greater Washington, DC, or Baltimore area
• Demonstrate a strong interest in global affairs, politics or social justice
• Complete the application process

This program is designed to benefit those who may have had limited exposure to international affairs or higher education opportunities.

All programs and activities are open to all regardless of race, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age or any other characteristic protected under university policy or applicable law.

• Complete and submit the application form, which includes a 300- to 500-word personal statement explaining why you want to attend the program and what you hope to learn.
• Have a school official (such as a teacher or counselor) submit the recommendation form on your behalf.
• Applicants may be contacted for an interview to discuss their interest in the program and global affairs.
• Application deadline: March 2, 2025 (11:59 PM EST).

Information sessions

We offer two virtual information sessions for teachers, students and their families. Please complete the interest form for more details and to RSVP. 

Students can currently choose from three courses offered through the School of Foreign Service partnership with the National Education Equity Lab: 

• Maps of the Modern World, taught by Professor Mark Giordano, explores global geography and political borders, equipping students with the foundational knowledge needed to understand contemporary global issues.
• International Relations, taught by Professor Elizabeth Grimm, introduces students to the theories and historical events that shape world politics, encouraging critical analysis of global conflict, diplomacy and cooperation.
• Global Migration in a Complex World, taught by Professor Katharine Donato, examines the causes and consequences of human mobility, including refugee movements, immigration policy and the role of international institutions.

Each course includes asynchronous lectures from Georgetown faculty, weekly virtual discussion sections led by Georgetown undergraduate teaching assistants, office hours and opportunities to connect with scholars and practitioners through exclusive SFS events. Students complete graded assignments and receive a transcript with three Georgetown University credits upon successful completion.

This unique academic experience empowers students to strengthen their writing, critical thinking, and global awareness, laying a foundation for success in college and beyond.

• Attend a Title I high school (schools with a significant percentage of students from low-income families)
• Passionate about learning and exploring the global landscape
• Demonstrate an interest in higher education and international affairs

Georgetown courses are offered through the National Education Equity Lab’s network of partner high schools. If you’re a student, speak with your school’s college counselor or designated NEEL co-teacher to learn more about course options and how to enroll. 

If your school is not yet a NEEL partner, educators and administrators can explore the opportunity to bring Georgetown courses to their students by visiting edequitylab.org.