Future Leaders Fellowship

College Fellowship and Career Development Program  

Washington, D.C. | Rising Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors (College)

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ABOUT

Are you ready to lead on the world stage? The Meridian Future Leaders Fellowship is a transformative, cohort-based experience designed for ambitious college students eager to build careers in international affairs, diplomacy, public policy, law, and global business.

Set in the heart of Washington, D.C., this immersive three-week summer or fourteen-week semester fellowship combines hands-on work experience, leadership training, and mentorship with global professionals. You’ll graduate with the skills, credentials, and confidence to stand out in competitive job markets and graduate school applications.

90%

of participants believe their ability to achieve a career in the Foreign Service is greater following the fellowship. The remaining 10% said their ability remained the same.

2025 Cox Foreign Service Fellowship Participants

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Program options

An intensive, immersive introduction to international affairs, U.S. foreign policy, and global challenges. Students sharpen leadership and communication skills while connecting with peers and professionals in D.C.’s international affairs community.

Summer Institute (4 Weeks, Part-Time)

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Fellowship Placement Tracks

This fellowship gives students the opportunity to specialize through targeted placements with Washington, D.C.–based organizations. Tracks include:

  • Corporate Diplomacy – Gain insight into how global businesses engage with governments and international stakeholders.

  • Technology, Innovation & Space Diplomacy – Explore international cooperation in the fields of emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and space.

  • Culture & Sports Diplomacy – Examine how cultural exchange and sports foster mutual understanding and international collaboration.

  • State & Local Diplomacy – Learn how subnational leaders—from governors to mayors—shape U.S. and global engagement.

  • Public Diplomacy – Contribute to the design and implementation of people-to-people diplomacy programs.

  • Communications & External Affairs – Build skills in strategic communications, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement to advance diplomatic initiatives.

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why meridian?

For more than 60 years, Meridian International Center has been a trusted hub for diplomacy and global leadership. As a nonpartisan, nonprofit institution, Meridian has brought together heads of state, business executives, cultural icons, scientists, mayors, and young changemakers to build connections across borders and tackle shared challenges.

Now, through the Meridian International Leadership Institute, students gain access to the same networks and expertise that have shaped global decision-making for decades.

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What You’ll Gain

Global Perspective: Explore international relations, diplomacy, and policy challenges shaping today’s world.

Professional Experience: Learn from diplomats, policy leaders, nonprofit professionals, and private-sector innovators.

Leadership Development: Strengthen communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Career Insights: Gain a competitive edge for college, graduate programs, and future careers in international affairs.

Capstone Project: Apply your learning to real-world issues and present solutions to peers and professionals.

100%

of participants plan to remain in touch with practitioners they met via the fellowship. ​

Of those, 60% of participants had already connected with a practitioner less than a week after the conclusion of their fellowship.

2025 Cox Foreign Service Fellowship Participants

aDMISSIONs & dETAILS

Cohort Size: 16 students

Program Dates:

  • June 8 – July 3, 2026

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–4 PM daily

Tuition:

  • Before January 15: $7,500

  • After January 15: $8,000

    • Covers 1-Week Global Leadership Institute + 3-Week Part-Time Fellowship Program

Application Requirements: Online form, personal statement, resume, optional recommendation, and proof of English proficiency (CEFR B2 or higher).

Summer Fellowship (Summer 2026)

Sign Up for Open House and Information Session

Monday, October 20, 2025 7-8 pm ET

“This Fellowship has expanded my network to include seasoned professionals with various careers in foreign service, international relations, and diplomacy. By participating in this fellowship, it improved my ability to gain experience at different internships and program opportunities in related fields so that I can start my own path to a career in diplomacy.”

2025 Cox Foreign Service Fellowship Participant

Questions about the Program?