Kaitlyn MacDonald, ’25, and Jolie M. Ruiz, ’25, with support from the Office of Global Affairs, will participate in the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Undergraduate Leaders’ Program taking place at the Universidad de Chile from July 20 – August 2, 2025.
50 undergraduate students from across APRU member universities will participate in this year’s program, “Future Global Citizenship Leaders: Addressing Pacific Rim Challenges”. The two-week program is designed to immerse students in the complex political, economic, social, and cultural intricacies of the Pacific Rim, emphasizing the importance of the Latin American viewpoint. The students will explore the specific challenges of the Pacific, such as intercultural dialogue, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
The Undergraduate Leaders’ Program fosters global citizenship by promoting a deep understanding of and respect for cultural diversity and international collaboration. Through networking activities, cultural nights, and mentorship opportunities, students will not only enhance their diplomatic skills but also establish lasting connections with peers and experts, preparing them to in influence and contribute to policy-making on the Pacific Rim stage.
Undergraduate Leaders Program 2025
Program Overview
Week 1: Understanding Pacific Rim Challenges
- Day 0: Welcome Dinner & Fireside Chat
- Day 1: Global Citizenship – Welcome Ceremony & Keynote Address
- Day 2: Economics – Discussions with Diplomats and Economists
- Day 3: Environment – Student Interviews & Field Visits
- Day 4: Cultural Diversity – Folkloric Lunch & Cultural Presentations
- Day 5: Indigenous Knowledge – Panel & Community Visit
- Day 6: Human Rights & Nature – Museum Visit & Mountain Excursion
Week 2: Skills and Applications in Diplomacy
- Day 8: UN Model Workshop (Student-Led)
- Day 9: Excursion to CEPAL – Insight into International Organizations
- Day 10: Leadership Seminar & Chilean Astronomy Evening
- Day 11: Problem-Solving Challenge – Propose Solutions for Pacific Rim Issues
- Day 12: Final Presentations & Certificate Ceremony
About the Office of Global Affairs
The Office of Global Affairs (OGA) is the University of Washington’s hub for global engagement. OGA advances global teaching, research and learning for faculty, staff and students and works to enhance the University’s global presence and impact with a footprint that spans all over the world.