Twelve students selected through an essay application process participate in a research trip to a designated conflict or post-conflict-region during the intersession. Students plan and coordinate the trip in close cooperation with Drs. Hopmann and Zartman. Background readings and weekly briefings with local experts take place during the fall semester. During the trip, students interview local government officials and representatives of the international community, NGOs, academia and the media in order to assess the role of the international community and prospects for progress in the region. Students select a specific area of focus and write a separate analysis and review of their findings to present in a final report at SAIS during the spring. Preference is given to second-year Conflict Management students, but students from all concentrations are encouraged to apply. This course commitment spans two semesters, and is open for registration only in the Fall semester please see the Conflict Management office for more details