Global Disaster Resilience Scholars
As a GFX Disaster Resilience Scholar, you will work in groups to design sustainable and resilient solutions in line with stakeholder needs in disaster-prone regions.
Program Information
Through case studies, interactive projects, hands on activities, and a faculty-led study abroad program, students will learn about the cultural, political, and social factors for specific disaster-prone regions. Students will initiate their training in not only the design of, but also the assessment of the resilience of potential technological solutions when responding to current and anticipated challenges for regions under consideration. Students will work with local communities, aid organizations, and peer institutions in the identification and implementation of sustainable responses.
By participating in this program, you are agreeing to travel during winter break.
Program Dates & Fees
There is a program fee that includes round-trip airfare from Chicago, lodging, meals, international insurance, and in-country programming. Many scholarship opportunities are available; GFX and International Programs in Engineering (IPENG) will help students understand these opportunities and requirements of competitive scholarship applications in August 2025. Students with financial need or other questions should contact IPENG at ipeng@illinois.edu.
Estimated program cost: $5300 subject to price fluctuations. Full details about program costs and scholarship opportunities will be communicated to GFX Global Disaster Resilience Scholars by the start of August 2026.
January 2027 program dates will be shared in August 2026.
Past program dates: January 10-17, 2026
Fall Semester (1 credit hour)
Take a course on disaster-prone regions, technological solutions to challenges, and culture taught by an experienced engineering faculty member.
Interested students may have the opportunity to continue project work in a spring 2027 semester 1 credit hour course.
Winter Break Study Abroad
Study abroad in Puerto Rico for a week of experiential learning and service! Understand local NGO needs and assist with hands-on projects and activities in the community.