Rosenblum Selected as a Finalist for Prestigious Schwarzman Scholars Program

Kyle Rosenblum, '20, standing in front of SU's Hall of Languages

Kyle Rosenblum, a senior psychology and policy studies major and a member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program, has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious Schwarzman Scholars program. Kyle is the first Schwarzman finalist from Syracuse University since the Schwarzman Scholars program launched in 2015. Kyle says he decided to apply because it would “provide me unparalleled opportunities to be immersed in China's culture, to develop critical leadership skills, and to gain an incredible network of future innovators and change-makers.”

The Schwarzman Scholars program, founded by American financier Stephen A. Schwarzman, is designed to “give the world’s best and brightest students the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and professional networks through a one-year Master’s Degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing – one of China’s most prestigious universities.” Students pursue a Master’s in Global Affairs while also taking courses in Mandarin, engaging in activities designed to build leadership skills, and participating in an internship. Expenses are fully covered by the program, including tuition, room and board, travel costs, books and supplies, health insurance, and a stipend.

Shwarzman College, Tsinghua University, China

Each year, the Schwarzman Scholars program selects roughly 150 students out of thousands of applicants. 40% of the class comes from the United States, 20% from China, and 40% from the rest of the world. When asked why he thinks he made it through the competitive applicant pool, Kyle credits the advisors who mentored him through leadership roles on campus, support from “a network of peers that have become family” and guidance through the application process “by the staff at CFSA.” To prepare his initial application, Kyle revised multiple drafts. He is now participating in a series of mock interviews to prepare for the interview experience.

With the support of the Schwarzman Scholars program, Kyle hopes to become a leader in global health policy, specifically in the field of substance abuse and mental health., Kyle wants to foster collaboration across the international community on these issues, focusing on solutions rooted in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Gaining further insight into Chinese culture, says Kyle, is an important step in understanding the complexities of international relationships, especially between countries as influential in our modern world as are the U.S. and China. Congratulations, Kyle, and best of luck on your interview!!