College Program on Islam (CPOI) is offering a new program in 2019 called the On the Road. This yearโs program is a 1-week road trip on Islamic History and diverse identities. It is an introduction into the pluralism of Muslim Identities across Washington DC, New York, and Philadelphia. Each day, students participate in experiential learning activities ranging from visiting museums, historical sites, interviews and conversations with Muslim Americans, and meetings with Muslim American leaders. In addition, facilitators will lead discussions with you and your peers to reflect on your own faith and Ismaili identity. Throughout the program, you will have a chance to develop your writing skills and reflect further on your identity through blogging, podcasting, and collecting oral histories. A set of evening programs --- ranging from topical discussions to analyzing the representation of Muslims in the Media โ will be incorporated to enhance assimilation of learning. In addition, guest speakers have been scheduled to add different practical dimensions to the course. At CPOI you can expect to:
โข Have the opportunity to explore and reflect on what it means to you to be an American Ismaili Muslim
โข Be surrounded by amazing peers and mentors who will challenge your thoughts and inspire you on a daily basis
โข Learn about the history, cultures and interpretations of Islam from an experiential approach that presents multiple perspectives on each topic
โข Discuss topics of contemporary interest including human rights, protest and social justice, and current social and political tensions across Muslim American communities
โข Explore the history and diversity of the Ismaili community in America
โข Participate in engaging activities that foster alternative forms of learning and growth
โข Talk to influential speakers from all walks of life and listen to their stories about what it means, to them, to be Muslims in America
โข Think more critically about your relationship with your faith and your identity
โข Situate Shiโism and the Ismaili Tariqah within the larger context of the intellectual and historical developments of Islam
Who can go?
CPOI is for rising college freshmen, college students and recent graduates. Anyone aged 18---25 is welcome, so long as you are in or have been to college.
How do I apply for this program?
Please visit www.TheIsmailiUSA.org and create a free account if you donโt already have one. Once you have created an account, go to the tab โYouth Programsโ, then โCampsโ. You will be able to submit your application online.
What are the applicant selection criteria?
The most important part of your application is the essay portion. Be true to who you are! If you donโt like to write then send us a video clip or an art piece or a song. Weโre looking to see how keen you are to critically engage.
When and where is CPOI this year?
This year's program will be held from June 11 - 21. As the program is a road trip, we will begin in Washington DC, travel to Philadelphia and end in New York City.
Are there any online portals available to learn more about CPOI?
There are several online portals available for you to learn about this program:
โข page: [page: https://www.facebook.com/collegeprogramonislam2015/]
โข www.TheIsmailiUSA.org
How much is the CPOI Road Trip to Islam going to cost me?
TBD
How do I apply for Financial Aid?
In order to apply for Financial Aid, you must submit 2 most recent consecutive years worth of your familyโs tax returns to [email protected] by March 21st together with your application.
CPOI has a 'need blind' application process. This means that an applicantโs financial situation will not be considered when deciding admission.
If I have questions about the program, about the application process or about my application, whom do I contact?
Please send all of your questions via email to [email protected]. We try to answer all questions as soon as we can, but it can take up to 3---5 business days.
