Office of International Programs

Website: www.hluce.org

Princeton Deadline: October 12, 2012

National Deadline: November 1, 2012

Adviser: Dr. Deirdre Moloney, moloney@princeton.edu, 8-1998

Luce Scholars Program Brochure (.pdf)

Fields: Open

Description: Launched in 1974, the Luce Scholars Program aims to provide an awareness of Asia among potential leaders in American society. Each year 15-18 scholars are chosen to participate in an individualized professional placement in one of 15 Asian countries. (Internships are arranged for each scholar on the basis of specific interests, background, qualifications and experience.) Aimed at a highly qualified group of young Americans in a variety of professional fields, it is unique among Asian-American exchange programs in placing emphasis on leaders who have had limited experience of Asia and who might not otherwise have an opportunity during the course of their careers to come to know Asia or their Asian colleagues.

Eligibility

• U.S. citizen in good health
• Bachelor’s degree by the start of grant period.
• Less than 30 years of age on July 1 of the year they enter the program.
• IMPORTANT: Those who already have significant experience in Asia (more than a summer) or Asian studies are NOT eligible for the Luce Scholars Program. Note: Domestic language study does not disqualify you.

Criteria for Selection

• High academic achievement.
• Outstanding capacity for leadership
• Mature and clearly defined career interest with evidence of potential for professional accomplishment
• Personal characteristics that typify successful candidates include flexibility, adaptability, creativity, openness to new ideas, enthusiasm, humility, and sensitivity to cultural differences.

Application Procedure
Applicants to the Luce Scholars Program must be nominated by Princeton. The nomination process involves the submission of the application and supporting materials to the Office of International programs (36 University Place, Suite 350) by the Princeton campus deadline:

• Luce Scholar Program Information and Application
  
  • 1,000-word personal statement
• Four letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• Two recent, passport-sized color photos with name printed on the back

A committee of Princeton faculty members will select a small number of candidates for personal interviews to be held in mid-October. The committee will nominate three candidates for consideration by the Luce Foundation. Nominated applicants will then submit their applications by the national deadline in early November.