The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Vietnam are looking for local candidates for four scholarships to engage in academic programs on global environmental issues that will include trips to the U.S. next year.

College freshmen and juniors who demonstrate strong leadership qualities and potential in their university and community activities and indicate a serious interest in the environment are encouraged to apply for the 2013 Study of the United States Institutes (SUSI) for Student Leaders on Global Environmental Issues, which is scheduled to begin next June and last for five weeks.

They should be between 18 and 25 years old, have a sustained high level of academic achievement as indicated in grades, awards, and teacher recommendations, and be committed to returning to their home universities upon completion of the SUSI program.

A serious interest in learning about the United States and a good command of English are required for prospective candidates.

Successful applicants will join seminar discussions, readings, group presentations, lectures, and educational visits to the United States, besides coursework and classroom activities.

All participant costs, such as international and domestic travel, ground transportation, incidental allowances, housing and subsistence will be paid for by the U.S. Department of State.

Applications, including two letters of recommendation and academic transcripts, must be submitted online and to the U.S. Embassy at 7 Lang Ha Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi or the U.S. Consulate General at 4 Le Duan Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City by December 17.

Application forms and detailed information can be found at http://sites.google.com/site/susistudentleaders/ or via pas.culture@gmail.com and NguyenLH2@state.gov.