Schwarzman Scholars is designed to prepare the next generation of global leaders to build stronger relationships between China and a rapidly changing world.
The Schwarzman Scholars’ experience is anchored in a one-year master’s degree programme at the new Schwarzman College at Tsinghua University in Beijing. The curriculum bridges the academic and professional worlds to educate students about leadership and about China’s expanding role in global trends.
In addition to receiving a fully funded scholarship, the programme also provides the Scholars with learning opportunities with world-class leaders through interactive lectures, an internship programme, a mentors’ network, and intensive deep-dive travel seminars.
Amongst the first cohort of Schwarzman Scholars admitted to study in September 2016 was HKU alumnus Alexander Chan Ho-Young (BEng, 2013). Also a holder of Master of Public Policy from Oxford University supported by The RC Lee Centenary Scholarship, Alexander was doing consulting work at Bain & Company and worked at the UK Cabinet Office. He has also led multiple community projects related to his interest in education, social mobility and inclusive economic development.
Another HKU student, Lee Jee-Soo (BSocSc, Year 4) is one of the 129 exceptional students newly accepted to the programme. Passionate for social justice and public speaking, Jee-Soo is the champion of numerous international debate tournaments. She has also provided pro bono consulting services to startups and non-profit organisations in Hong Kong.
“Clearly their journey is just beginning, but it is our hope that the Scholars will leave Schwarzman College with a better understanding of how to foster friendship, co-operation and collaboration among the peoples of the world,” said Stephen A Schwarzman, Blackstone Chairman, and CEO and Co-Founder of the programme.
About Schwarzman Scholars:
The Schwarzman Scholars was inspired by the Rhodes Scholarship, which was founded in 1902 to promote international understanding and peace, and is designed to meet the challenges of the 21st century and beyond. Blackstone Co-Founder Stephen A. Schwarzman personally contributed $100 million to the programme and is leading a fundraising campaign to raise an additional $350 million from private sources to endow the programme in perpetuity. The $450 million endowment will support up to 200 scholars annually from the US, China, and other countries around the world for a one-year Master’s Degree programme at Tsinghua University in Beijing.
Students live and study together on the campus of Schwarzman College, where all classes are taught in English. Students pursue degrees in one of three disciplines:
- Public Policy
- Economics and Business
- International Studies
In an environment of intellectual engagement, professional development and cultural exchange, they learn from one another and pursue their academic disciplines while building their leadership capacities.
December 2016
