Summer Institute Discover the USA 2026
The Office of International Affairs at the University of Maryland (UMD) is excited to welcome 24 German Fulbright students through the 2026 Summer Institute Discover the USA, sponsored by the German-American Fulbright Commission. This four-week immersive program is designed to blend cultural immersion, leadership training, and community engagement.
The desired results: fearless ideas, global friendships, and skills that will continue to shape them as future-ready leaders.
About the Program
Host Institution
The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) is a leading comprehensive research institution situated in College Park, Maryland, just minutes away from Washington, D.C. Renowned for its cutting-edge research across diverse fields, UMD offers students unique opportunities to engage in groundbreaking projects and collaborate with industry leaders. The prime location allows students to seamlessly connect theory with real-world applications through internships, research endeavors, and cultural experiences in the nation's capital. UMD's commitment to global readiness, community engagement, and leadership development enriches the campus environment, creating a dynamic community of learners. Cross-cultural exchange, global competency, future-ready leadership, and community engagement are core components of UMD’s mission and are articulated throughout UMD’s strategic plan:"Fearlessly Forward".
Learn more about the University of Maryland's facts and rankings here.
Sponsor
The program is sponsored by the German-American Fulbright Commission.
Program Information
The 2026 Summer Institute Discover the USA will start on Friday, August 21, and conclude on Saturday, September 19th. The host institution will provide the finalized program schedule to the participants before the program starts. Some program activities might be adjusted after the program starts.
Participants will begin the institute by building relationships with one another while developing the communication skills needed to thrive in multicultural environments. Through interactive workshops, role-playing activities, and collaborative exercises, participants will strengthen their ability to communicate across cultures, build trust within diverse teams, and establish a strong foundation for effective global collaboration.
Participants will deepen their understanding of globalization and develop the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Through seminars, simulations, case studies, and experiential learning, participants will examine global issues, strengthen intercultural competence, and learn strategies for adapting to diverse cultural and professional environments.
Participants will explore what it means to become effective and ethical leaders in an increasingly complex global society. Through seminars, simulations, case studies, and conversations with community leaders, participants will strengthen their leadership capacity, develop practical decision-making skills, and learn how to lead with integrity, resilience, and cultural awareness.
Participants will apply the knowledge and skills developed throughout the institute to explore how leadership can create meaningful and sustainable social change. Working collaboratively, participants will design community impact projects, engage in volunteer service with local organizations, and reflect on the role of civic engagement in addressing community and global challenges. The institute will conclude with final presentations, a closing celebration, and participants' departure.
The institute will also include 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 have the opportunity to participate in on-campus events such as an American football game, recreational group lessons, and club fairs, etc.
Lodging
Participants will be accommodated in the Cambria Hotel, which is a 15-minute walk and 5-minute drive from the UMCP campus, with double occupancy beds and shared bathroom facilities.
Dining
Participants will be provided with a mix of food options, including UMD dining halls as well as local restaurants, to explore the multicultural delicacies of Maryland.
Things to Do
College Park and Hyattsville are family and student friendly towns with various things to do, accessible by metro or bus.
Transportation
Group transportation during the program will be provided in the form of pre-arranged charter bus services. This includes transportation to and from the Washington DC area airports, as well as field trips, excursions, and site visits. For some local activities, participants can use the public transit system in the Washington DC area as well as, some routes of Shuttle UM to explore campus.
Contact the Host Institution
For additional information or questions about the program, please email the host institution at info-gli@umd.edu.