American Delegation at Seeds of Peace International Camp
Americans delegates at Seeds of Peace have an incredible opportunity to learn about international conflicts and cultures first-hand, by living with and participating alongside their peers from the Middle East, South Asia and throughout the United States. American youth are participants in the program in every sense, from bunk life to activities to daily dialogue sessions. As "Seeds", they act as friends and supporters, helping to create links between campers from regions of conflict. American campers often provide a vital sense of perspective especially in the daily coexistence sessions where discussions of history, identity, and politics take place. American youth are encouraged to engage in all discussions and share their own views on such issues. They play an important role in creating an atmosphere conducive to trust-building and dialogue. Aside from their work with the international campers, American Seeds also focus on issues of multiculturalism and racial conflict within the United States; they often learn as much about their own communities as they do those around the world. For this reason, Seeds of Peace strives to create a culturally and racially diverse American delegation. American participants demonstrate leadership, a willingness to learn, and an interest in international affairs. After camp, they actively bring their personal experiences into their homes, schools, and communities. They also have the opportunity to participate in Seeds of Peace events and conferences throughout the year. Seeds of Peace strives to create an American delegation that is representative of the population it represents. Our preference is for campers 14-16 years of age who possess both an open-minded attitude and a high level of maturity. The quality of the application essays and a possible interview will be factored in to the selection process. To read an article from a 2002 American Delegation camper, click here. [0] To read an article from a 2003/2004 American Delegation camper, click here. [0] Applicants are asked to choose a session that they would like to attend. Each session hosts a total of 185 campers, 15 of which make up the American Delegation. Please note that American Delegates are selected to attend one of our first two summer sessions, which also host youth from the Middle East, South Asia and Maine. Please note that there is $6,000 tuition fee for American Delegates. Limited scholarship money is available, and applications for financial assistance will be available after selection. Dates for Summer 2008:
Session One: June 23 - July 15
Session Two: July 21 - Aug 12
American delegate orientation will take place in Boston one day prior to the start of each session. More details will be provided following selection.
Unfortunately, the deadline for submitting applications for our Summer 2008 programs has passed. Please check back this fall for information on opportunities for Summer 2009.
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Reflections from Previous American Campers
"Spending nearly seven weeks in the serene environment of Seeds of Peace has been the most meaningful experience of my life. As an American camper and peer support, I was often able to act as a liason between Arabs and Israelis. But my role at camp was so much more than that. Many American delegates have the unique opportunity of living in a cold conflict region while demonstrating an interest in a separate conflict not traditionally thought of as their own. I will cherish my time as an American seed for many, many years." — Joey, Los Angeles "Being part of the American Delegation was an eye-opening experience. My adventure has opened my eyes to not only how lucky I am, but also how unfortunate others are. Leaving Seeds of Peace was the hardest momement of my life; I saw those who had become my friends crying, realizing that they were leaving the utopia of our camp and going back to the gunshots, bombings, pain and torture. But when they left, I also saw hope for a future generation that will have the compassion and power to end thousands of years of hatred." — Tamra, New Jersey