Global Scholars Program

Global Scholars has been the most life-changing experience of my college career. I’ve never felt so supported by professors and faculty who have opened my eyes to opportunities I never imagined were possible. The program has given me the chance to be part of a community I was struggling to find.
Catherine Cruz

How Global Scholars is different

Global Scholars is not a traditional class; it’s a learning community that connects global issues with personal experience, reflection, and real-world engagement. Unlike most classes that focus mainly on lectures or assignments, Global Scholars emphasizes dialogue, collaboration, and action.

Student group holds certificates and wears their graduation stoles

Students smiling and laughing with each other during networking activity

Program goals

The Global Scholars program will equip you to take local and global action to improve our world. Through participation in the program you will:

Describe the complexities of “global citizenship” and “global engagement” and apply them to real-world contexts.
Engage across differences and navigate the challenges of working in diverse communities.
Build a supportive community and professional network that fosters mutual learning and growth.
Engage in an immersive global experience that is integrated with your UW Bothell education.
Deepen understanding of your own identities, values, and goals as you develop skills for global and professional engagement.

I have learned so much from both my professors and my peers. A diverse group of individuals fosters dialogue that encourages self-exploration and a deeper understanding of others. This exchange helps you reflect on what it means to be a global citizen and appreciate different perspectives, even when they differ from your own.
Naomi Yohannes

Our global experiences

travel group smiling with University in background — Students from UW Bothell and African Leadership University in Rwanda

6 students wearing authentic Korean clothes — Experiencing Korean traditions in Seoul

student and faculty group on bridge in front of waterfall and tropical jungle — Exploring the ecosystems of Ecuador

students in a small office with politicians in WA DC — Learning about human rights issues in Washington, D.C.

Our scholars

purple graduation stoles that say global scholars

Global Scholars emphasizes identity as central to global engagement. Many Scholars are first-generation college students, receive Pell Grants, and rely on financial aid to support their study abroad or global internship programs (virtual or in-person). They come from diverse backgrounds and represent various academic disciplines.

Curriculum

Global Scholars take classes together and receive individualized support to pursue a global experience during the summer via study abroad program, virtual internship and/or domestic opportunity with a global focus. Learn more about the Global Scholars curriculum.

Application

UW Bothell students can apply to Global Scholars each Autumn Quarter. Students who apply after the priority deadline will be considered if all cohort spaces have not been filled. The Global Scholars Program expects to accept 20-30 students each year. Learn more about the Global Scholars application process.

Support

Global Scholars is an initiative of the School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, and is open to all undergraduates at UW Bothell. The Global Scholars Program Directors were recognized with the inaugural UW Distinguished Teaching Award for Teams in 2023.

Program directors

Ben Gardner, School of IAS
Ron Krabill, School of IAS
Natalia Dyba, Global Initiatives

Advising

Reach out to us at uwbworld@uw.edu! We’re also available for virtual and in-person appointments.

Schedule an appointment!

Around the World with Global Scholars

How a dream became a reality: A letter to first-gen students looking to study abroad with Catherine Cruz (Spain)

UW Bothell student shared her perspective as a first-gen student and her experience with the local culture through the curriculum.

From Dream to Reality: My Unforgettable Summer Internship in University of Tokyo with Jing Yi Zhong

Global Scholar talked about this exceptional journey and her distinct study experience while exploring the local beauty.

From Seattle to Seoul: A first-generation Cambodian American’s journey to Independence and Adulthood Abroad in South Korea with Ryan Him

The trip to Seoul helped UW Bothell student to explore the possibility of self, observe the cultural differences, and strengthen his insights into international businesses.