The Summer Service Learning Program (SSLP), part of the college's Global Poverty Alleviation (GPA) initiative and sponsored by the Wang Foundation, brings Chinese and U.S. students together to develop and implement poverty alleviation projects located in some of China's most impoverished regions. The program consists of two sessions: one month intensive Chinese language and culture study at Tsinghua University in Beijing, and three weeks implementing a service learning project at one of Tsinghua’s 200+ e-Learning Centers in China’s poorest counties. Tsinghua University is known as China's "MIT."

Win a $300 scholarship!

The Davidson College of Engineering is awarding up to ten participants a $300 scholarship to help subsidize the costs. If more than 10 students are accepted the college will select the top ten applicants. Students must show proof of participation (i.e. airfare) prior to scholarship distribution.

Download Applications, Liability Release Form, and Brochure

SSLP Application ( Note: Only one letter of recommendation required.)
SSLP Liability Release
SSLP Application Chinese Language & Culture Program
SSLP Brochure

Part One: Service Learning Program Activities | July 1-22, 2008

• The primary goal is teaching conversational English to students and teachers.
• Learn firsthand about the “real China” by delivering community service on a personal level.
• The session begins with a 4-day orientation at Tsinghua University. Students will learn about China’s poverty issues, develop teaching plans, and gather resource materials.
• After orientation, project-teams depart to their assigned sights for the two-week service project.
• Upon completion, the groups return to Tsinghua University and close with a 2-day debriefing and evaluating period. Students will be given a Certificate of Completion.
• Fee: $300. The fee covers 4 days of orientation & 2 days of debriefing at Tsinghua University, round-trip transportation to Service Learning site, and room and board for 22 days.

Part Two: Chinese Language & Culture Activities | June 1-30, 2008

• Students are enrolled in two classes, “Mandarin Speaking & Listening” and “Chinese Culture” at Tsinghua University.
• Class placement will be determined by each individual’s level of Mandarin proficiency.
• The Chinese Culture class arranges for a variety of field trips around Beijing.
• Students who successfully fulfill course requirements will receive a certificate of completion.
• Cost of Program: $1300 – includes housing, meals, and 2 courses (airfare not included)

*Part two is an optional preparation course that takes place for one month preceding the SSLP.

Program Logistics

All participants are responsible for purchasing their own transportation to and from Beijing, passport, visa, travel/health insurance, and immunizations.

1. Transportation:
   • Beijing Capital International Airport (airport code: PEK)
   • Due to the 2008 Summer Olympics, planning should be done early.
2. Passport: Participants must have a current passport or have the ability to obtain one prior to the trip (for passport info go to http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html).
3. Visa:
   • Upon selection, Tsinghua University will issue each participant the documentation to obtain an F Visa (Visiting Student). To find out more about visas go to http://www.chinaconsulatesf.org/eng/qianzhen/default.htm.
4. Travel/Health Insurance:
   • Insurance must be purchased for your entire length of stay. Insurance should be purchased at https://www.somertonins.com/custompolicies/globalprod/default.aspx.
5. Immunizations:
   • You can find the recommended vaccinations at the Center for Disease Control’s website at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinationChina.aspx#vaccines.

Important Dates

• Application Period: February 19 - March 21, 2008
• By March 21, 2008, all applications (including resume, letter of recommendation, and university transcripts) are due at the Engineering Dean’s office, ENG 493.
• Week of March 17th: Interviews
• Monday, March 24th: Applications of the finalists to Tsinghua for final review.
• April 1st-10th: Tsinghua University selection period
• April 10th: Applicants will be notified of the selection results by email.
• April 26th: Student’s participating in either program must attend a mandatory half-day orientation at SJSU.

For additional information go to the Wang Foundation's website: http://www.wangfoundation.net/service_learning.htm