A Dean Rusk Service Grant is defined as the participation in activities that help or support international initiatives. This grant can include internships.

Applying for the Grant

For this grant, each student is required to complete the following steps: 

  1. Consult with the Dean Rusk office to discuss your project proposal. 
  2. Write a proposal. 
  3. Complete travel grant budget report.
  4. If applicable, obtain a language proficiency recommender. (required where English is not the predominant language in the country for your proposed project)

It is strongly recommended students also obtain a faculty recommendation, but it is NOT required. 

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Writing Your Proposal

A strong proposal includes:

  • How will you help or support others during your travels?
  • How is this project important within your academic career, personal goals, or future plans?
  • What are the specific plans you wish to accomplish (volunteer for nonprofit or internship such as a government agency abroad, etc.)?
  • What are your language skills for the proposed countries you plan to travel to? 
  • What other knowledge or expertise do you have that will assist you in this project (knowledge of medical terminology, expertise in construction building, etc.)?
  • What are the preparations you must complete before departing (contacting a specific organization to collaborate with, training certificates, etc.)?
  • Can you get those tasks done with the requested resources (budget) and the proposed time frame?
  • How will you make your project accessible to all audiences?
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Deadline

2024 Service Grants will be available when the fall grant cycle opens at the close of the spring grant cycle, with an application deadline of October 1, 2024. 

To start your application, use Submittable

Recently Funded Service Grants

a young man wearing glasses and a polo

Caminos de la Vida: On the Path to the American Dream

by Tomás Quintero '23

Tomás volunteered to provide social support to migrants, immigrants and refugees in the Mexico-United States border region while learning first-hand about barriers to health access for these communities.

Chloe Davis

Public Health Improvement & Community Outreach with The Real Uganda

by Chloe Davis ‘23

Chloe volunteered in a local hospital and pharmacy as part of The Real Uganda's goal of improving public health. She also taught English lessons and assisted local female entrepreneurs as part of the program’s desire to improve community outreach.

Taw Meh '25

Serving the Thai Refugee Camps

by Taw Meh ‘25

In Thailand, Taw Meh is working closely with the Karenni Student Union and the Karenni National College and is travelling to refugee camps to deliver needed supplies. Since schools on the campus are in session during the winter, she is teaching English and volunteering in clinics.