Participants in the institute will be invited to enroll in an optional online course "Intercultural Communication " as preparation for the institute.  The course provides an introduction of major theories and concepts of intercultural communication, examination of processes that make up cultural differences, and the use of intercultural communication competence skills. Participants will interact with UMD students to discuss and practice their intercultural communication skills. The online course dates are August 11-15.  

The course will be taught in University of Maryland’s online course environment–Enterprise Learning Management System (ELMS-Canvas). Participants will receive instructions on how to register for an associate account to access ELMS.

Participants will be welcomed into the program and introduced to the foundations of cultural adaptation, identity, and communication. Through interactive sessions, they will explore what shapes cultural identity, how to navigate misunderstandings, and key principles of intercultural communication. The week will also focus on developing a global mindset by examining stereotypes, biases, and how to foster more inclusive, adaptable engagement across cultures.

Featured Sessions:

• Presentation: Adapting to New Cultural Environments
• Seminar: What Shapes Cultural Identity?
• Presentation/discussion: Global Mindset
• Workshop: Navigating Cultural Misunderstandings
• Presentation: Key Principles of Intercultural Communication
• Workshop: Active Listening & Nonverbal Communication Across Cultures
• Workshop: Understanding & Challenging Stereotypes & Case Studies
• Workshop: Reflection, Discussion and Role-Play

This week focuses on building the skills needed to thrive in a globally interconnected world. Participants will examine how culture, politics, and economics influence decision-making and problem-solving across diverse settings. Through hands-on workshops, team projects, and simulations, they’ll develop creative thinking, adaptability, and entrepreneurial thinking skills essential for effective global collaboration and leadership. 

Featured Sessions:

• Seminar: Understanding Puzzles of the World
• Workshop: Strategies for Effective International Collaboration
• Seminar: Creative Problem-solving in a Changing World
• Workshop: Entrepreneurial Thinking
• Workshop: Developing Global Readiness Skills
• Designing group projects on community engagement

Participants will dive into the qualities and skills that define impactful leadership across cultures and contexts. Through self-assessments, public speaking practice, and crisis simulations, they’ll explore communication, influence, ethics, and team dynamics. Interactive workshops and a guest roundtable with local leaders will provide real-world insights into navigating leadership challenges with confidence and integrity.

Featured Sessions:

• Seminar: What Makes a Great Leader?
• Discussion: Leadership Styles Self-Assessment & Discussion
• Seminar: Public Speaking & Persuasive Communication
• Mock Leadership Speech Exercise
• Workshop: Balancing Ethics & Business in Leadership
• Case Study: Leadership Decision Making

In the final week, participants will explore what it means to create meaningful change through community engagement and social impact. They'll collaborate on community-based project proposals, and visit local organizations to deepen their understanding of global citizenship. The program concludes with final presentations, a celebratory dinner, and a heartfelt send-off before departure back to Germany.

Featured Sessions:

• Workshop: Developing a Community Impact Plan
• Seminar: What is Community Engagement?
• Discussion/Reflection: Food Insecurity
• Fall First Look Fair: Exploring UMD student clubs
• Community volunteer events

The institute also includes field trips to national and regional landmarks such as the U.S. Capitol, the Washington Monument, Washington National Cathedral, various Smithsonian museums, and the City of Annapolis and City of Baltimore. Participants will also enjoy on campus events such as American football game, recreational group lessons, and music festival, etc.