Conferences & Workshops

We're proud to offer a range of conferences and workshops that allow students around the world to explore Operation Smile and the ways in which they can help children regain smiles and hope.

International Student Leadership Conference (ISLC)

Operation Smile hosts the International Student Leadership Conference (ISLC) at a different university around the world each year. The annual conference helps students develop and strengthen leadership skills and character, receive training on how to help those in developing countries as well as learn cultural awareness.
The conference recognizes the diversity among our students and celebrates what each unique student has to offer. We believe students play a vital role, not only in the future of Operation Smile, but also in the future of our country and the world.

Who? All high school and college students around the world are invited to attend.

What? Take part in a 4-day leadership conference to develop and hone your skills to become a leader among your peers. Participants will have the opportunity to hear great speakers share their insights on the topics of leadership, overcoming obstacles and what it means to make a difference.

When, Where, Why and How? Stay tuned for details on ISLC 2010!

Mission Training Workshop

Portsmouth, Virginia
January 15 - 18, 2010
Application Deadline: November 13, 2009

Students

Operation Smile offers students the unique opportunity to participate on international medical missions. The primary role of a Student Team member is to EDUCATE. Students will be prepared with several teaching modules including Burn Care and Prevention, Oral Rehydration Therapy, Hygiene and Nutrition. These modules are designed to inform local populations of basic health care that will improve quality of life. Find out more information about this role.

Requirements

• A rising high school sophomore, junior, or senior (at least 16 years of age)
• An active member of an Operation Smile Student Club (OSSC)
• Involved for at least one year
• Able to indicate dedicated participation and exceptional leadership
• A participant at a previous International Student Leadership Conference
• You must meet all requirements in order to apply

Sponsors

The primary role of a Student Education Team Sponsor is to ensure students are properly prepared prior to the mission and to ensure the student’s safety during the mission. They are also to help facilitate the education opportunities, off-site visits and team incorporation. The Student Sponsor role is unique in that it is a 24/7 position. It is also expected the Student Sponsor complete a log of off-site visits to include location, contact information and a brief description. Find out more information about this role.

Requirements

• An adult over the age of 26
• Able to demonstrate previous involvement in Operation Smile
• Involved for at least one year
• Comfortable chaperoning two high school students in a foreign country

Questions? Contact Suzanne Unger.

Student Volunteers on Medical Missions

We offer students the unique opportunity to participate in international medical missions. The primary role of a Student Team member is to EDUCATE.

Students will be prepared with several teaching modules, including burn care and prevention, oral rehydration therapy, hygiene and nutrition. These modules are designed to inform local populations of basic health care that will improve their quality of life.

Find out more information about this role.

• Requirements
• A high school sophomore, junior or senior (at least 16 years of age)
• An active member of an Operation Smile Student Club (OSSC)
• Able to be involved for at least one year
• Able to indicate dedicated participation and exceptional leadership
• A participant at a previous International Student Leadership Conference (2009 or earlier)
• You must meet all requirements in order to apply