Saturday, June 22, 2019 – Friday, June 28, 2019

Social media—its joys, sorrows, and everything in between—is here to stay as an integral part of our everyday lives. It impacts how we think, perceive, and communicate with others on a minute-by-minute basis—and helps shape the face we present to the world. We will address social media head on at the 2019 World Affairs Seminar, discussing ethical dilemmas, issues of privacy, transparency and identity, and the economic and political ramifications. Are we empowering people or fueling the flames of hatred, extremism, and spiraling mental health concerns? From Facebook to Instagram to Twitter, social media continues to evolve and we need to understand its promise and perils to fully harness a technology that can truly make the world a better place.

At WAS 2019, you will…

• Consider social media’s impact from many points of view.
• Engage in relevant off-site experiences to stimulate discussion.
• Collaborate with delegates from around the world to define social media issues and challenges in an atmosphere of respect, trust, and collaboration.
• Discover what you can do to use social media to make the changing world a better, safer place for ethical, respectful dialogue and engagement.

WAS is a truly international experience, bringing together peers from around the world to learn international relations. Since 1976, WAS has impacted and changed lives, providing highly-relevant skills in group problem-solving, negotiation and peaceful diplomacy. We feature expert speakers with a variety of perspectives, opinions and backgrounds. Further, when it comes to our delegates, every single point of view matters—we embrace and mandate a forum for healthy, respectful debate leading to collaborative learning and growth. Your role is to distill information, identify priorities and develop defining skills to both lead and collaborate with others from different cultures to reach positive conclusions.

Why Should You Attend?

Prepare yourself for an adventure that will broaden your understanding of international happenings and change your perspective.  The World Affairs Seminar (WAS) brings you face to face with other students, experts, and leaders from the world over.  You will engage in stimulating discussion of world affairs. You’ll interact with experienced professionals—from government, business, and academia.  You will leave with strong bonds and lifelong friends.

Experience the diversity of global political, social and religious traditions. Share your ideas, make new friends, accept the challenge to find out more. Learn to explore and appreciate other points of view. Gain a better understanding of the world around you and where you fit in shaping the future.

At World Affairs Seminar, the goal is to open minds rather than advocate a specific viewpoint. While you are with us, we consider you a “delegate”. Your opinions count – and so do those of others.  It is up to you to decide what messages are credible and to evaluate  and understand of how different people think about global issues and why. You will discuss, add to and exchange ideas about issues.  You will formulate and express your thoughts, hear what others think, and find shared ground. Your leadership and negotiation skills will grow through training sessions and conversation with peers, presenters and counselors.

Additional Benefits of Attending World Affairs Seminar

• Experience college life on a safe campus in beautiful Southeast Wisconsin.
• Attendance at WAS will add strength to your college enrollment applications because it validates your leadership and negotiation skills.
• Plenty of fun, too!
• International Talent Show: Sing, dance, perform music, read poetry, be a comic… find like-minded students & create an act!
• Global Music Night: Always a highlight, the dance brings everyone together one last time to hang out, have fun, and exchange ideas.