The World Selection Committee is a group of experts who are responsible for assessing applications from around the world. They are often based in a country or region where the student will be studying and have a deep understanding of the local context. They assess applicants against a broad range of criteria and often offer them financial support depending on their needs.
The Selection Committee is made up of professionals from various sectors that work in global civil society. They include community developers, thematic experts, individuals with experience hosting international exchange participants, U.S. and international civil society leaders, and alumni of U.S. government programs working in the field of global civil society.
This group is tasked with vetting the applications received from cities that are bidding to become WDCs. The Committee evaluates the bid based on its assessment of the city’s capacity to organize and finance a year-long program of design events, to mobilize the local design community, and to foster a wider dialogue on urban revitalization strategies.
They also assess the applications based on their ability to bring about changes to the city’s infrastructure, including its transportation system, to promote a culture of sustainability and to ensure that the community is engaged in the development of its WDC designation. The Committee may also ask for information from other international organizations to help determine a city’s suitability to be designated a World Design Capital.
These organizations are invited to participate in the selection process and may be required to provide a statement of support for a candidate. The Committee is also charged with reviewing a wide range of documents and reports that are submitted by the applicant.
The Selection Committee Members serve on a voluntary basis and are encouraged to attend the selection camps. They will be responsible for reading and scoring the applications and recommending candidates to the Interview Committee. They will also be expected to review approximately 20 pre-recorded interviews and may receive an additional honorarium of $100.
In addition, some Committee Members are invited to join the Interview Committee and conduct interviews with applicants from February 3 – 24, 2023. They will be responsible for reviewing and scoring the applications and recommending candidates to select the winners of the global finals.
One of the most exciting elements of the selection process is the opportunity to meet and interact with a diverse set of students from across the globe who will be competing for a place at UWC. This can be a great way to get to know and understand the world you are studying in, and to see how your study and living experiences at UWC can enhance your life and career in a global context.
A number of the committee members are former UWC students who will share their knowledge and experiences with you during your selection process. They will also be able to answer any questions you may have about life as a UWC student and help you make an informed decision as to whether UWC is the right choice for you.