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Global Leaders Corps

A cohort program designed for students with a passion for global experiences, issues, and leadership. 

The Global Leaders Corps program will immerse students throughout their time at Drake in unique global opportunities on campus and beyond, including a semester abroad, assisting with international events, and engaging with a peer group of like-minded and motivated leaders. Each GLC cohort is comprised of a select group of 8-10 incoming first-year students with a commitment to the development of a global and intercultural skillset and mindset in support of responsible global citizenship. 

Program elements include:  

  • Study abroad stipend: $3,000-$4,000 grant to be used towards a semester program 
  • Individual and cohort mentoring from Global Engagement executive leadership
    • Tailored intercultural competency training and development  
  • Hands on experiences with Global Engagement staff  
    • Priority access to paid employment opportunities  
    • Assist with global events on campus 
  • Opportunities to develop leadership skills  
    • Assist with the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) or other global grant programs hosted on Drake’s campus 
    • Serve as an International Mentor/Academic Consultant (IMAC) for international students 
    • Interact with diplomats and other foreign dignitaries visiting Drake’s campus 
  • Engagement with global non-profit organizations in Des Moines through global service-learning 
  • Other benefits 
    • Priority placement in Working Worldwide, Drake’s international post-graduate employment program 
    • Priority access to funding to attend and/or present at international conferences 

Program Outcomes

  • Experience living in another country through a study abroad program 
  • Practice navigating intercultural differences through interactions with diverse populations 
  • Enhanced development of a global mindset, in preparation for life beyond Drake University 
  • Unique opportunities for engagement with distinguished members of the global community, including current and future leaders 
  • Ability to navigate professional environments in a skillful manner 
  • Sustained interaction with a peer group with similar interests and objectives 
  • Enhanced skill development in support of responsible global citizenship 

Application Requirements

  • Entering first-year students must apply and submit all required application materials to the Drake University Office of Admission by March 11, 2027. 
  • Eligible candidates must have a minimum of 3.5 high school GPA on a 4.0 scale. Transcripts must be postmarked or submitted with their application for admission by March 11, 2027.
  • Attend a virtual and/or on-campus visit by March 11, 2027.
  • Submit the separate Global Leadership Corps application by March 11, 2027. This will include submission of two video essays.

Log in using your Office of Admission application credentials. If you have not yet started your admission application, you must start it before you can set up a scholarship/special program application.

Program sponsored by the Principal Center for Global Citizenship.