The Committee for International Discussion and Debate (CIDD) of the National Communication Association (NCA) announces the call for applicants for the 2019 Japan Tour
Every other year, the CIDD coordinates with the Japan Debate Association to send two debaters and a coach to Japan. Tour participants take part in a wide range of activities including debates, workshops, and lectures at Japanese universities, high schools, and community group events.
Approximate Dates of Travel: Early June to early July 2019
Eligibility: Any past or present forensic participant who is under 25 years old and is a full time undergraduate in good standing (juniors and seniors preferred), or who has received an undergraduate degree but is still no older than 25, is eligible. We encourage applications from students active in all forms of debate, including Lincoln-Douglas debate, team policy debate, and parliamentary debate. Students who apply should have (or plan to obtain) a valid current passport.
Evaluation: Students will be evaluated on the basis of their debating skills and their ability to teach debate basics in a variety of formats. Knowledge of political, social, and cultural conditions around the globe is a must. The student’s ability to represent the United States and American forensics (in all its forms) accurately, effectively, and professionally is a strong consideration. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to discuss their experience with different forms of debate and individual events in their letter of interest. The ability to educate students about the style and substance of debate in the United States is an important component of the tour. Personal diplomatic skills are a must.
Tryouts: Applicants will be notified of their status as finalists by mid-February. The application process will include a round of phone interviews and a second round of video tryouts in which applicants will showcase their debate skills.
How to Apply: If you are interested in trying out for the tour, send the following no later than February 1, 2019:
- A letter of interest;
- A copy of your college transcript (unofficial is acceptable);
- Two letters of recommendation that address your skills in debate, your professionalism, and diplomatic skills (It is preferable, though not required, that one letter should be from someone other than your debate/forensics coach and focus on aspects of professionalism, diplomacy, presentation skills, and/or knowledge of the political, social, and cultural traditions of the region.);
- A current resume;
- Contact information including phone and email address.
Send these materials in one compressed zip file to nca.cidd@gmail.com.
Materials received after February 1, 2019 will not be considered.
Finally, if you have any questions about the application and selection process, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Ruth Beerman, CIDD Chair, at ruthbeerman@rmc.edu.