The Qi Social Innovation Center, in partnership with Columbia Global Center Beijing, has announced the launch of its Fellowship For Change (FFC) program for 2025. This prestigious one-year scholarship opportunity is tailored for high school students in China passionate about spearheading transformative social and environmental change.
The FFC is designed to support 20 selected students in Grades 10-12 who demonstrate a deep commitment to community service and proactive problem-solving. The year-long program integrates the students’ academic schooling with immersive learning and individualized mentorship. The goal is to equip young social innovators with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to develop impactful solutions that address the root causes of pressing social and environmental challenges.
Facts about Columbia University
- Oldest Institution: Columbia University is the oldest institution of higher education in New York and the fifth-oldest in the United States.
- Ivy League: Columbia is one of the eight prestigious Ivy League universities, known for academic excellence and selectivity.
- Nobel Laureates: Columbia has produced 102 Nobel laureates, including Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States.
- Global Network: Columbia has a global presence with affiliates in 100 countries and partnerships with over 200 institutions worldwide.
- Academic Diversity: Columbia offers over 400 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across 16 schools and colleges.
- Iconic Alumni: Notable alumni include Alexander Hamilton, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Stephen Sondheim.
- Research Powerhouse: Columbia is a leading research institution, with over $1 billion in annual research funding.
- Diverse Student Body: Columbia’s student body represents over 100 countries, with international students making up 30% of the population.
- Historic Campus: Columbia’s Morningside Heights campus is a National Historic Landmark, featuring iconic buildings like Butler Library.
- Innovation Hub: Columbia is ranked among the top universities globally for innovation and entrepreneurship, with numerous startups and patents emerging from its research.
Structure For Fellowship For Change 2025 At Columbia Global Center Beijing
A key component of the FFC program is its three in-person Learning Summits, scheduled for July 13-20, 2025, January 2026, and July 2026. During these summits, Fellows will engage with renowned professors and facilitators from Columbia University. Each summit incorporates five main pillars:
- Academic Sessions: Led by Columbia University professors, covering critical learning modules.
- Experiential Learning: Field visits and guest lectures with professionals and organizations making significant social impacts.
- Reading Discussions: Sessions encouraging reflection on philosophical readings and sharing diverse perspectives.
- Team-Building Activities: Exercises that emphasize unity, collaboration, and leveraging individual strengths.
- Project Studio Time: Practical workshops allowing Fellows to apply their learnings in real-time project development.
Between these summits, participants will continue developing their projects with the support of mentor coaching and online learning sessions, fostering their ability to research, design, and pilot initiatives that create lasting change.
Unique Experiences Offered
Fellows will have opportunities that include interactive activities at iconic sites like the Great Wall, in-person guest lectures, and visits to local community centers and professional environments. These experiences are aimed at inspiring Fellows and helping them understand the real-world applications of their learning.
Rewards For Fellowship For Change 2025 At Columbia Global Center Beijing
The FFC program boasts a variety of benefits:
- World-Class Learning: Academic training from Columbia University professors.
- Enhanced Skills for College: Amplification of core competencies to bolster college applications.
- Global Network: The chance to build connections with social innovation practitioners worldwide.
- Experiential Exposure: First-hand experiences with impactful organizations and community leaders.
Eligibility For Fellowship For Change 2025 At Columbia Global Center Beijing
The FFC program is open to students across China who are entering Grades 10-12 in September 2025 and possess a genuine passion for making a positive difference. Ideal candidates will:
- Show commitment to addressing a social or environmental issue in their community.
- Demonstrate perseverance, creativity, and proactive problem-solving skills.
- Prioritize teamwork and effective listening.
- Bring unique perspectives shaped by their diverse experiences.
- Be fluent in English, enabling them to fully engage with program activities.
How To Apply For Fellowship For Change 2025 At Columbia Global Center Beijing
Students interested in the FFC program must submit their applications by January 5, 2025. Important dates include:
- Shortlist Notification: February 10, 2025.
- Interviews: Conducted from February 10 to March 17, 2025, potentially in two rounds.
- Offers Issued: Between March 20 and April 4, 2025.