Global Citizenship Program

A First-Year Ampersand Program

Make the most of your first year. 

Introducing literacies of career and life relevant to Global Studies, this First-Year Ampersand Program examines what it means to be a citizen of the world, challenging its participants to engage in both demanding texts and real-life scenarios. This two-semester course sequence led by three instructors from different disciplines will equip you to think critically and holistically about how our own mental maps compare to the realities of a globalized world as you build a community of practice with passionate and dedicated peers.

Through the program's additional weekly workshop, you will develop the skills and the critical consciousness to consider what it means to be a "global citizen" in today's world. During the first semester, you will learn about global issues through a geographical lens and think critically about your identity and positionality. Second semester, you will examine global citizenship from a local perspective, learn about the history of St. Louis, and have the option to volunteer at a local organization as we explore tangible ways to foster relationships and practice solidarity within our own community. The program concludes with a trip at the end of the semester, after exams, to provide further opportunities for hands-on learning and interaction with organizations and people involved in the themes of the course. 

Testimonials

Connor Park

"GCP was one of the best experiences of my freshman year. It allowed me to meet peers and friends from diverse backgrounds and explore ideas and communities that I never would have been exposed to in any other settings. GCP was not just a class but a community that allowed me to grow in unexpected ways."

Fatuma Ibrahim

“GCP was the blessing I didn’t know I needed. It gave me the platform to share my thoughts and personally lived experiences while also learning from those around me. Most significantly, GCP gave me a lifelong community and friends that I can watch my favorite K-dramas with, take classes with, and be my full self around.”

Beldina Orinda, Class of 2023

“I wanted to act, and I wanted to learn about refugees and the experiences that they have coming to this country. But looking back, we covered those things and so much more. I think that I am walking away having realized that immigration issues are so much closer to home than we often realize.”

Anne Johnson, Class of 2023

“I discovered that being a global citizen can be achieved anywhere, even with a smaller community, so long as I take the chance to reach out to people and educate myself on the ways that global issues touch my life.”

Christine Hutchinson, Class of 2023

Getting the opportunity to work with organizations in St. Louis allows one to get more of a feel of the city and the people in it. For example, before hearing about NCP [Niños Cambios Puertas] I was unaware that St. Louis had a sizable Latinx population (or at least in certain communities) and this was interesting for me to learn."

How to Sign Up

The sign-up process with priority review for first-year programs and seminars begins on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 4 p.m. (CT). To participate in priority review, please submit your application in the first 24 hours after applications open or by Friday, May 17, 2024, at 4 p.m. (CT). The link to the application form will be available on the First-Year Programs homepage during that time. You will need your WUSTL Key to apply. For each of the Ampersand Programs you wish to rank in your top four choices, you will need to complete a separate statement of interest (no more than 500 words) answering a program specific question. For the 2024 application, the Global Citizenship Program prompt is: In 250-500 words, please share how your lived experience has sparked your interest in global citizenship.

First-Year Programs HomePage

The GCP Curriculum Path

This yearlong opportunity is led by three instructors and includes a unique course for each semester, as well as a yearlong workshop focused on experiential learning.
 

See the full curriculum path here

Admission FAQ

How do I apply for admission to the GCP?

After you have committed to coming to Washington University, you will receive a publication entitled “Getting Started” which lists GCP as well as a number of other first-year programs. You are asked to register your interest and submit a brief essay to apply. For the essay (no more than 500 words), you must address a topic of international concern, highlighting your own interests and qualifications.

When do applications open?

The sign-up process with priority review for first-year programs and seminars begins on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 4 p.m. (CT). To participate in priority review, please submit your application in the first 24 hours after applications open or by Friday, May 17, 2024, at 4 p.m. (CT). The link to the application form will be available on the First-Year Programs homepage during that time. You will need your WUSTL Key to apply. For each of the Ampersand Programs you wish to rank in your top four choices, you will need to complete a separate statement of interest (no more than 500 words) answering a program specific question. For the 2024 application, the Global Citizenship Program prompt is: In 250-500 words, please share how your lived experience has sparked your interest in global citizenship.

What criteria are used in selecting participants?

We try to make the best match we can between students and program by looking at your background, your current interests, and your academic achievements. A strong essay is key in the application process.

What if I am not admitted into GCP but would like to get started on Global Studies? 

There are many ways to gain a global perspective during your first year of college. Courses like World History, International Politics, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and civilization courses are available to all incoming students and provide a wonderful foundation for advanced study. You can also enroll in foreign language classes in preparation for studying abroad. Finally, if you are certain you want to be a Global Studies (GS) major, you may want to apply to be a part of the Global Studies Honor Society.