Iowa Council for International Understanding

The Iowa International Fellows Program is a leadership training program that involves a minimum of 50 selected international and U.S. students from Iowa’s colleges and universities. Participating students meet four weekends during the academic year for workshops on varying international and cultural themes.

The Iowa Student Global Leadership Conference is an annual conference that brings 200 Iowa youth and international exchange students studying in Iowa high schools together for a leadership institute in Des Moines. The focus of the conference is to examine several key global issues that will have impact on the world in the future. Participating Iowa students work in partnership with international students to recommend actions and solutions for the future, and to discuss ways youth can address issues of concern in their countries.

The World Experience is a new and innovative program that combines an interactive classroom curriculum with a simulated hands-on activity where students “tour the world” for a day. Students prepare for the simulation by studying the customs and cultures of a single country as a team. They develop display materials and the competency to play the role of travelers and hosts. The World Experience is an interactive instruction program that builds upon students’ social studies, math, language arts, and critical thinking skills by giving them real-life application. The simulation activity vividly demonstrates the indisputable connection between local action and global consequences while teaching leadership, cooperation, decision-making, and cross-cultural sensitivity and understanding. Volunteers are needed to assist teachers and supervise students.

You can work as a facilitator or speaker in one of the meetings with the students
You can help with the implementation of World Experience simulations
You can support the ICIU staff during registration and advise students
You can assist with the marketing and promotional materials of the programs
You can provide transportation for the students (applicable only to the Iowa International Fellows Program)

You will be able to work with High School, Middle School or College students enrich their lives by sharing your professional and personal experiences with them
You will be able to develop skills and gain experience in project management, marketing, and event planning to a targeted audience
You will increase your knowledge of other cultures and countries

Computer knowledge of Microsoft Office programs including excel, word, publisher, etc. ( if applicable)
Excellent verbal and written communication skills including strong interpersonal skills
Ability to handle multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records
K-12 teaching or college experience desired but not required