Despite the current pause on international travel, the Center for International Studies will continue TCU’s mission of developing global citizens this fall by launching the Global Scholars program. All incoming students in the Class of 2024 are invited to participate in the inaugural cohort.
As Global Scholars, students engage throughout their four years at TCU in the development of essential global competencies, including the ability to understand complex issues from multiple perspectives, engage with others in respectful and ways and work toward shared solutions.
Open to incoming freshman, the program incorporates coursework, global activities, study abroad experiences, and mentorship. As Global Scholars, students will make progress toward global citizenship even when international travel is not possible.
“This program draws together the expertise at TCU to help students develop the competencies needed for respectful and informed global engagement,” said Tracy Rundstrom Williams, associate director of the Center for International Studies.
Early advising and intentional engagement are hallmarks of the program. Students begin by taking the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) to determine their current position on a continuum of intercultural skills and to guide them as they set personal goals. The IDI will serve as their framework for growth and development.
Working with a mentor — or “navigator” — from the Center for International Studies, students will develop a personal plan that includes globally and culturally focused courses, study abroad experiences and activities aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Global Scholars can also earn study abroad scholarships as they reach program benchmarks.
Traditionally, most students participate in their semester abroad during their junior year, but Global Scholars are encouraged to begin their international experiences early in the academic career through the Global Academy or other short-term programs. These experiences will provide them with the knowledge and confidence to become more engaged and intentional in longer study abroad opportunities as upper classmen.
Global Scholars will receive distinction and recognition at graduation, in addition to acquiring a portfolio of demonstrated global skills and competencies to show potential employers and graduate programs.
First-year students will soon receive an email introducing the Global Scholars program and inviting them to subscribe to weekly emails that will provide more details about the program along with engaging activities and giveaways.
In early September, students can start their journey toward becoming a Global Scholar by attending information sessions and beginning the application process. Special workshops and activities are already planned for this fall geared towards building global competencies and preparing for their international experiences.
The Center for International Studies welcomes collaboration with all units in developing globally-focused activities and events to further campus internationalization and to enhance the academic experience of Global Scholars and all TCU students.