​Applications for Summer 2025 Program

Open Date: January 15, 2025
Deadline: February 20, 2025

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 Goals

• Develop intercultural knowledge and build meaningful relationships.

• Enhance global awareness.

• Strengthen personal values and language skills.

• Focus on community service and commitment.

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Benefits of Participation

By joining the SSC Student Ambassador Program, participants will:

• Represent Saluda as an international ambassador in Carunchio, Italy.

• Explore Italy’s culture, people, and language through immersive experiences.

• Gain independence, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills.

• Expand interests and build lifelong friendships.

• Develop respect for cultural differences, customs, and daily life in Italy.

• Appreciate the hospitality and experiences provided by the host community.

• Contribute to promoting cultural understanding upon return by sharing experiences with Saluda’s community.

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Program Overview

Saluda Sister City (SSC) operates an annual student ambassador exchange program with Carunchio, Italy, established in 2019. This program alternates annually between Italy and Saluda, with participants spending 1–3 weeks during the summer immersed in the host community.

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Italy Exchange Highlights

• Saluda ambassadors typically stay at the Palazzo Tour D’Eau, a cultural hub in Carunchio, and participate in its programs.

• Additional opportunities may include staying with local families or past exchange participants.

• Exchange arrangements are coordinated by SSC and Massimo Criscio, owner of the Palazzo and head of Carunchio Sister City.

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Eligibility Requirements

• Membership: Applicant must be an SSC member (individual or family) and reside in ZIP code 28773.

• Age: Applicants must be 17–22 years old, with preference given to those aged 18 or older.

• Application: Submit by February 20 with:

  • A completed application form.

  • An official transcript of high school and any post-secondary education.

  • Agreement to participate in an interview with the selection committee (parent/guardian interviews may also be requested).

• Evaluation Criteria:

  • Academic achievements (GPA, course of study).

  • Foreign language skills.

  • Community involvement and leadership experience.

  • Life goals.

  • Prior involvement with SSC.

  • Commitment to post-trip activities (reports, presentations, event participation).

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Expectations for Ambassadors

• Act as a respectful and polite representative of Saluda.

• Show gratitude to hosts and participants.

• Adhere to local laws and customs.

• Abstain from drugs and alcohol (except for one glass of wine during meals if of legal age).

• Fully engage in Palazzo programs and host family activities, including helping with household chores and sharing cultural insights.

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Travel Information

• Flights: Nonstop flights are preferred to minimize travel risks. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

• Passport: Ensure a valid passport with at least 90 days remaining post-arrival. Passport fees are the applicant's responsibility.

• ETIAS Authorization: Starting in 2025, travelers to Schengen countries will require an ETIAS travel authorization. This must be obtained online before departure.

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Program Details for 2025

• Dates: Tentative departure is June 21, 2025, coinciding with the Flower Festival in Carunchio.

• Duration: 1–2 weeks, including a week at the Palazzo and potential extended stays with host families.

• Travel Expenses: SSC will pay up to $2,000 toward airfare and provide 100 euros for incidentals. Ambassadors should budget an additional $200 for personal expenses.

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How to Apply

TO APPLY:  Click this link and complete the application: APPLICATION 2025 STUDENT

 For questions, contact Susan Cannon at slcannon38@gmail.com

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