The Bush Center

International Student Leadership Program

College Preparation and Leadership Training Program

Bringing future international leaders together with their American counterparts, the International Student Leadership Program features the top high school leadership development program in the United States, access to major industry leaders, travel through southeast Texas, and the practice of English as a second language within the warm, welcoming Texas culture of host families.

The program introduces and trains college-bound students in five critical domains of leadership. Coupled with travel throughout historical places in Texas and visits with key leaders of various industries across Houston, students participating in this program gain both leadership skills and a broad global understanding of what it takes to lead organizations well.

List of 5 items.

  • What is ISLP?

    Program Goals
    • Build leadership skills that will last a lifetime
    • Receive a certificate of Leadership
    • Gain experience, confidence and effectiveness in communicating in English
    • Receive guidance on college essay writing
    • Learn how to apply to American universities
    • Build cross-cultural friendships with a host American family and their children

    Program Activities
    • Participate in dynamic workshops to build effective leadership skills
    • Spend time with industry leaders focusing on strategic planning and implementation within their organizations
    • Students receive training on how to apply to American universities and tour Rice University and University of Texas at Austin
    • Receive College Counseling to include College Essay Development Training and Application Assistance
    • Study in American classrooms with American students
    • Experience Texas high school culture by attending classes, arts, and sporting events with American students

    Eligibility Requirements
    Students applying to this program must be 14-18 years of age by August 1, 2017, possess a strong academic record, demonstrate proficient oral and written English, and have well-developed interests in activities and hobbies outside of school.

    What Is Included
    • Tuition and Study Materials
    • Host Family Housing
    • 3 Meals Daily
    • Program-Related Transportation
    • Housing at the Ranch
    • Cultural and Recreation Activities

    What Is Not Included
    • Tourist Visa Application Fee
    • Medical Insurance
    • Airfare
    • Personal Shopping and Expenses

  • What Can I Expect from ISLP?

    • Participate in dynamic workshops to build effective leadership skills.
    • Engage in collaborative teamwork by constructing action plans, practicing peer mediation and negotiation, and project management.
    • Spend time with industry leaders focusing on strategic planning and implementation within their organizations.
    • Gain deeper understanding of industries such as medicine, space exploration, transportation, energy, science, sports and arts, government and business through project-based exploration.
    • Spend time at a beautiful Texas ranch, traveling throughout the surrounding central region of Texas to experience the culture and if time allows, student may visit some of the area’s most notable attractions including special access to the George Bush Presidential Library, as well as other sites such as the Alamo, the Texas State Capitol and San Antonio Riverwalk.
    • Students receive training on how to apply to American universities and tour Rice University and University of Texas at Austin. Enjoy great Texas hospitality living with host American families during the first and third weeks of the program.

  • How Do I Apply?

    To be considered for participation in the International Student Leadership Program, complete the online application available by clicking here, submit one teacher recommendation letter from a current teacher, and pay the non-refundable deposit and registration fee ($100). When each of these items have been received, the application of all candidates will be reviewed and you will be contacted with additional information.

    For questions about the program or application, please email
    islp@houstonchristian.org
    First Session: January 21 - 31, 2018
    Second Session: February 4 - 13, 2018

    REGISTRATION DEADLINE
    December 20, 2018

  • ISLP Host Family Information

    Qualifications for Host Families
    • International student must have their own bed
    • Able to provide daily transportation to and from Houston Christian
    • Willing to provide experiences for student to help them participate in American culture (family dinners, events in Houston, etc.)

    Questions or to apply, please contact Michelle Webb.

    Creating a Cross-Cultural Community, article on Host Families by Elizabeth Elliott

  • How to Contact Us

    Dr. Stephen Livingston
    Head of School
    Houston Christian High School
    2700 W Sam Houston Parkway N
    Houston, Texas 77043
    Telephone: 713-580-6000
    Email: slivingston@houstonchristian.org

    Aliana Peska
    Executive Director
    George and Barbara Bush Center for Scholars and Leaders
    Telephone: 713-580-6041
    Email: apeska@houstonchristian.org

    Li Xu
    International Marketing Representative
    Telephone: 713-818-2683
    Email: lixu@houstonchristian.org