graphic with global learning participants

APRU Undergraduate Leaders Program

Overview

The Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Undergraduate Leaders Program (ULP) is an immersive two-week experience in Santiago, Chile at Universidad de Chile designed to give students a deep understanding of the Pacific Rim's complex political, economic, social, and cultural dynamics, particularly emphasizing the Latin American perspective. Participants will explore critical regional and global challenges, including intercultural dialogue, economic development, and environmental sustainability while developing their capacity as global leaders.

Program Description

  • Program Dates: July 20 – August 2, 2025
  • Max Enrollment: 5
  • Language: English
  • Program Location: Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
  • Theme: “Future Global Citizenship Leaders: Addressing Pacific Rim Challenges”

The program will feature seminars and workshops led by experts, interactive activities such as UN simulation models, and excursions to key international organizations. These activities will foster cultural exchange and a celebration of diversity, highlighting the importance of inclusion and mutual respect in global diplomacy. Students will refine their diplomatic and leadership skills. Additionally, they will also be able to form lasting connections with peers and experts, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to policy-making efforts within the Pacific Rim.

Participants will be hosted at the Universidad de Chile and will enjoy and experience Santiago, surrounded by the snowy Chilean Andes. The program will collaborate with key local partners, such as the Ministry of External Affairs of the Chilean Government, embassies from the Pacific Rim, the UN Resident Coordinator Office in Santiago de Chile, and the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (CEPAL).

Program Highlights

  • Participants will explore the global and regional challenges faced by the Pacific Rim through a series of seminars and interactive activities.
  • Participants will engage in workshops, UN simulation models, and excursions to international organizations.
  • Cultural diversity will be celebrated and discussed, highlighting the importance of inclusion and mutual respect in global diplomacy.
  • Participants will not only enhance their diplomatic skills but also establish lasting connections with peers and experts, preparing them to influence and contribute to policy-making on the Pacific Rim stage.

Program Cost

The $600 program fee for up to five UC Davis undergraduate students will be covered through the Global Education for All Excellence Fund. Costs not included below are the responsibility of the student.

The program fee includes:

  • Academic program costs
  • Transfers within the program
  • Meals within the program
  • Accommodation from July 20–August 2, 2025

Costs not included:

  • Airfare to and from the participant’s home country
  • Passport and visa fees (if required)
  • Medical insurance*
  • Meals and expenses outside the program
  • Any other expenses not specified

*Students will likely be eligible for UC Travel Insurance, and may also want to purchase additional insurance at their own discretion. More information will be shared once participation is confirmed.

Program Eligibility

Full-time undergraduate students at UC Davis, who have completed at least one year of studies, from all disciplines.

Application Process and Timeline

Step 1
  • Complete the application through UC Davis by clicking “Apply now”
  • The following prompts are required as part of the UC Davis application:
    • Why are you interested in participating in the APRU Undergraduate Leaders’ Program? (Max. 1200 characters)
    • Describe a situation where you demonstrated leadership or worked collaboratively in a team (Max. 1200 characters)
    • What do you hope to gain from this program (Max. 1200 characters)
Step 2
  • If nominated by UC Davis, you will be asked to complete the APRU application form by March 7.
  • The following prompts are required as part of the APRU application:
    • Why are you interested in participating in the APRU Undergraduate Leaders’ Program? (Max. 1200 characters)
    • Describe a situation where you demonstrated leadership or worked collaboratively in a team (Max. 1200 characters)
    • Mention any extracurricular activities, clubs, volunteer services, internships, or relevant leadership experiences you would like to highlight (Max. 1200 characters)
    • What do you hope to gain from this program? (Max. 1200 characters)*
    • How do you plan to contribute to the program and your peers? (Max. 1200 characters)
  • Note: you will be able to use your responses from the UC Davis application in the APRU form for the questions that are the same.
  • IMPORTANT: APRU will make the final selection of participants. Nomination by UC Davis does not guarantee participation in the program.

Application Timeline

  • UC Davis application opens: TBD
  • UC Davis application deadline: February 23, 11:59 p.m. PST
  • Review of student applications: February 24-27
  • Students notified of nomination status: February 28
  • Selected students confirm their participation to UC Davis: March 5
  • Selected students complete the required APRU forms: March 7

Contact Information

Staff Photo

Chelsey Hawes

Experiential and Intercultural Programs Coordinator
Global Learning Hub, Global Affairs
chawes@ucdavis.edu