Checklist:
Be sure to include the following items when submitting your application:

1. Two page application
2. Statement of Purpose
3. Two References (to be submitted directly to MSCI) One must be from a teacher or administrator, and the other from school or church staff, adult neighbor, long-time friend, scout leader, coach or club advisor.
4. At least two photos to send to host family, one of yourself and one of your family. Extra photos are welcome (house, friends, pets). Photos will not be returned.
5. Students chosen for the exchange program can enroll as members at the first orientation meeting if they are not currently members of MSCI. This can be done at the minimum level of $20.00.                                         Download MSCI Membership/Interest Form.

Completing the Application
It is important to complete all parts of the application, obtain appropriate references and supporting documentation, and follow the guidelines for the Statement of Purpose.  Download application

The Statement of Purpose
The Statement of Purpose is the most important part of the application. It is an opportunity to present your qualifications for participating in the MSCI Youth Exchange Program and to outline your skills and qualities. In preparing the statement, you should consider the following guidelines:

Your interests

• Briefly describe your school and activities.
• How does your family feel about your participation in the program?
• How would you benefit from participating in the program?
• Why do you want to participate in this program?
• What qualifications/experiences do you bring to the program that demonstrates your potential as an effective and innovative youth ambassador?

References
Download two reference forms from the website and give to two sources to fill out and mail directly. They can also type or send by mail or email as long as the requested information is provided. Download reference form

Submitting the Application
Print the application and mail with all required documents to:

Modesto Sister Cities International
PO Box 580253
Modesto, CA 95358

Application Review / Selection Criteria

• MSCI staff will conduct an initial technical review of all applications to verify eligibility and completeness.
• Applicants will be selected based on their ability to communicate their interest and desire to represent Modesto in our Sister City.
• Applicants’ Statement of Purpose will be closely examined to determine motivation and degree of commitment to an Exchange Program.
• The interview process will help MSCI staff determine the personality, attitude and group compatibility of the applicant.
• The applicant’s ability to cooperate within the group is of utmost importance. During the interview process we will question applicants on their leadership ability and attitudes towards a variety of group situations.
• Close consideration will be given to the applicant’s qualifying age in the event there is an overabundance of eligible applicants. The primary concern will be the applicant’s future eligibility. In a case of two equally qualified applicants, the older student would be given extra consideration in respect to their future eligibility. (i.e., 11th graders would not qualify the following year).

Selection and Notification
MSCI is committed to a divergent group representing Modesto. We invite applicants from all ethnic, religious, and social backgrounds. Our goal is to send ambassadors who best represent Modesto and its citizens.

Applicants will be notified by mail of their acceptance into the program and invited to an Orientation meeting required for students and parents. Students who were not chosen will also be notified by mail.

Calendar:

Modesto Sister Cities International * PO Box 580253 * Modesto, CA 95358
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