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George Mitchell Scholarship: FAQ

  • What type of person gets selected for the exchange?
  • This opportunity requires academic achievement and demonstrated community service plus a sense of adventure and the maturity to conduct yourself as an ambassador for your college, family, and community. The opportunity to go to another country is rare in the community college setting. The benefits of the exchange include the high honor of winning this scholarship and putting international experience on your résumé. Both will set you apart from your competition as you move forward in your chosen career.
  • How do I apply for the exchange?
  • See your Dean of Students/Enrollment Services first. Then see the online application and updated information. If you have additional questions, you can contact Dorry French, International Programs Coordinator, Center for Career Development, at 767-5210x4117—dfrench@ccd.me.edu.
  • What college would I be attending in Ireland?
  • MCCS scholarship recipients attend Cork Institute of Technology (CIT). UMS students attend University College Cork (UCC). These have been our partner institutions since the inception of this exchange in 1999.
  • Does the exchange count for credit?
  • Ideally, yes. However, the different structure of courses at CIT makes credit transfer to MCCS difficult. You must talk with your Dean of Students/Enrollment Services and your faculty advisor to be sure that the program you select in Ireland fits into your college program here. For the application, you need only select a major and course possibilities. If you are awarded a scholarship, you'll need to determine with your advisor the specific courses you want and what you would be required to do to ensure credit for them on your return. Course choices may change once you get to Ireland, but planning ahead will improve your chances of transferring credit.
  • When is the best time to do the exchange—as a freshman or senior?
  • Both first- and second-year community college students may participate in the exchange. This exchange should not delay your graduation, though that is a possibility. You can also participate in the exchange if you graduated during the previous year.
  • Can I choose which semester to go?
  • Yes, if your exchange is for one semester, you can choose whether to go for fall or spring.
  • What financial support does the scholarship provide?
  • The scholarship covers your tuition, books, and fees at the Irish institution, provides a living-expense stipend equal to $900 per semester, and includes an allowance for on-campus meals. In addition, the Maine Community College System provides a travel grant of $1,000.
  • How do I apply for a passport?
  • Please see travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html or www.usps.com/passport/. If you don't already have a valid passport and you are selected for the exchange, you should apply for your passport as soon as possible. If this is your first passport, you need to apply in person and bring with you all required documents: 1) two passport photos; 2) a valid driver's license or photo ID; 3) your birth certificate with a raised town or state seal and date (the date it was filed, received, or recorded) or other proof of citizenship; and 4) check, cash, or money order for the application fee.
  • Do I need a visa as well as a passport?
  • You do need a valid passport; you do not need a visa. However, if you are staying more than 90 days, you may need to register with local authorities. The International Office at CIT will help, if that's necessary.
  • How do I get to Cork?
  • You can make your own travel arrangements or ask the Center for Career Development for help. Once you arrive in Cork, CIT's International Office will help you get settled.
  • Where will I stay at CIT?
  • Most likely you will stay at an apartment/dormitory that may house many international students. Accommodations are usually in co-ed suites: single bedrooms, bath(s), kitchen, and lounge.
  • How many classes do I have to take?
  • You must take a full load of classes. Hours will vary by program, but may equal 25-30. This sounds like a lot compared to 12-15 hours at a community college, but has not been a problem for previous Mitchell scholars.
  • How do I plan my classes?
  • Be sure to visit the college Web site: www.cit.ie and click on "Courses" to see the programs available. If you are selected for the scholarship, contact the Center for Career Development. Through CIT, the Center can put you in touch with a faculty contact for the program you want. It's important to begin that process as soon as possible because identifying a contact can take weeks, and CIT faculty are unavailable during the summer.
  • Can I participate in sports or other clubs?
  • Yes. There will be lots of opportunities. Check the CIT website for what's available. Joining clubs and playing sports are wonderful ways to make friends and experience Irish culture on a deeper level.
  • Can I travel while I'm there?
  • Yes. You need your own funds to travel, just as you need your own funds for entertainment, off-campus meals, and gifts. Travel is easy by bus and train and you may find willing travel companions among your suite-mates and other friends.

Applications must be postmarked or personally delivered to the Center for Career Development by February 15, 2008. If this date falls on a weekend or holiday or if the Center is closed for bad weather, hand-deliveries must be made before February 15.