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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 12, 2026. 
  • 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 12, 2026.
  • Attend a virtual and/or on-campus visit by March 12, 2026.
  • Submit the separate Global Leadership Corps application by March 12, 2026. 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.