Gateway to China Program

Louisiana State University and the Honors College have teamed up on a bold academic initiative designed to educate students on the political, economic, and cultural impact of China. With a population of 1.3 billion and an economy growing at more than 7 percent annually, China is an emerging economic power that figures to play a prominent role in the 21st century global arena. In addition to a Chinese Culture and Commerce minor currently available, LSU is offering an expenses-paid trip to China for current Honors College freshmen students in the summer of 2010.

About

Up to twenty Honors College current freshmen are selected for the program and brought on an expenses-paid trip to China. Students may incorporate their planned major into a program that allows them to learn more about modern China.

Summer Trip

While in China, students will spend time at Tongji University in Shanghai and Capital Normal University in Beijing, two of China’s premier educational institutions. Participants will have the opportunity to learn the basics of Mandarin Chinese, interact with local students, taste China’s world famous cuisine, and experience the urban energy of two of China's largest cities. Students will also visit renowned sites such as:

• The Forbidden City, the palace where the emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties carried out their administration and lived for more than five centuries
• Tiananmen Square, the largest open-urban square in the world and site of a number of political events in China’s history
• The Great Wall of China, the world’s largest military structure, whose historic and strategic importance is matched only by its architectural significance

Value

The award has an approximate value of $3,500, including round-trip airfare from Baton Rouge, LA to Shanghai; ground and air transportation throughout China; double-occupancy lodging in Shanghai and Beijing; select meals; Chinese visa application fee. (Not included: passport fees, souvenirs, laundry services, other personal expenses.)

Dates

Dates for the program are tentatively set for May 20-June 4, 2010. Additionally, participants must schedule an HNRS seminar course in the spring 2010 semester in conjunction with the trip. (Specific course TBA.)

Eligibility

Eligible students must be currently-enrolled freshmen and must be in good academic standing in the Honors College. Selection for this award is highly competitive.  The application will be available in early October and must be submitted on or before Wednesday, October 28, 2009.  Finalists will be selected to schedule an interview after submitting an application.

Program dates and details are subject to change. Applicants will be notified of such changes. Certain restrictions apply.

If you have any further questions, you may contact Jeremy Joiner at jjoine2@lsu.edu.

Click here to apply for the Gateway to China Summer Program.