Academia? Bring it on!
INTELLECTUAL CORRESPONDENT Q&A
Q: What is an Intellectual Correspondent?
A: Jacob values thoughtful intellectual dialogue and contemplative conceptual interchange. The Intellectual Correspondents Program (ICP) is set up to facilitate such interactions.
Q: Why are you offering these benefits?
A: Bona fide academic discussions appeals profoundly to Jacob. Yet, limits on intellectual pursuits are unfortunately and usually caused by limited access to resources, meager time they can devote, and their unfamiliarity with time-saving practices. Every benefit offered at part of the ICP seeks to address one or more of these issues. For example, access to online library resources offers access and opportunity for independent scholarship, PPT templates and study resources help people accomplish time-consuming and tedious tasks so they can devote more time to scholarly work, and online courses expands opportunity for erudition.
Q: Can I utilize these benefits for personal use?
A: This will be determined on a case-by-case basis, depending on a wide variety of factors such as: potential for intellectual growth, potential to benefit others, the nature and extent of the resource in question.
Q: Do I qualify?
A: If you are directed to this page by a post from Jacob, chances are that you do. If you just happen to wander to this site, please know that the program is selective. No more than ten people are currently considered for this program, and they each have demonstrated outstanding academia and/or special talents. Typically, invitees receive at least 1400 on SATs (or the ACT equivalent), are well-rounded, and articulate.
Q: How is the ICP different from the BFP?
A: The main difference is that the BFP is more selective and ongoing commitment almost like a “tenure.” Once admitted, recipients of the BFP only need to demonstrate continued enthusiasm for intellectual discourse in order to qualify for benefits. The perceived quality of their intellectual arguments can never be held against them. Needless to say, the BFP is a long-term commitment. The ICP, on the other hand, is dependent on the depth of your discussions. Your ability to access material is mainly dependent on how often and how thoughtful your deliberations with Jacob are. You will also not be required to commit to regular and frequent sessions, so the ICP offers more flexibility in this regard. You may read more about different programs here.
Q: How do I apply?
A: If you are invited, you may respond to this question: What matters to you? Why? or any other question of your choosing, as long as it demonstrates intellectual potential. There is no word limit, so please explain yourself in as short or as long as you wish. If you are not invited, you may respond to the same question and attach:
— A standardized test score (SAT/SSAT/ACT/TOEFL), or a written explanation that you have not taken any such tests,
— A list of activities you feel passionate about. This doesn’t need to be world-changing or anything formal even, as long as you explain your reasons and show dedication,
— Any additional information that you feel would be helpful.
However, please also know that the number of IC we are able to accept is the same as the number of invites we send out. This means that non-invitee applications will be considered only if one or more of the invitees chooses not to apply or enroll. Feel free to reach out to jacob.wu@email.com with additional queries and comments.
Q: What happens after I accept the offer?
A: You will have access to one of the benefits as determined by a conversation with Jacob. You will retain access for as long as they are available. Changes in availability may be induced by external factors, such as copyright complaints, discontinued services, or changes in contents offered. You usually wouldn’t be denied access solely on the basis of reasons such as the perspectives you espouse in intellectual discussions, perceived changes in your level of intellectual rigor, or changes in your personal qualities. However, please note that there will be an expectation to engage in contemplative intellectual discussions with Jacob. The frequency of which is determined by, and in turn influences, your ability to access additional resources.
Access to more than one of these befits often require a written explanation plus a conversation about your individual needs.