Becker College Global Citizenship Distinction (GCD)
Introduction
The Global Citizenship Distinction recognizes students’ achievement of global learning and
global citizenship. The program formally acknowledges global coursework, service learning,
community service, global co-curricular activities, and cross-cultural experience through a
special designation on students’ transcripts and the awarding of a global distinction pin.
This program provides any student with the opportunity to document their global learning at
Becker and then to apply for distinction status. Documentation through some form of an eportfolio is being considered. Students will be empowered to take charge of their own learning
to thrive, contribute to, and lead in a global society.
By successfully meeting the requirements for this distinction, complementary to any course of
study, students will explore global engagement opportunities on and off campus and join a
network of students pursuing a similar goal.
Application
Students complete an application in collaboration with their academic advisor by the posted
deadline on Becker’s global website. Supplemental supporting documentation such as
journals, photos, and global projects/presentations may be attached. The GCD program will be
explained in FYE and students will be encouraged to begin collecting global learning evidence as
early in their college experience as possible.
The GCD may be granted as soon as the application process is complete and approved by the
GCD Committee, with representation from faculty and student affairs.
1
A. Applicant’s Information
Name:
Advisor:
Email:
Phone:
Major/program:
Minor/Concentration:
Native/First Language: English Other
Expected year of graduation:
B. Global Coursework: A minimum of 15 semester hours required with a course GPA
of 3.0. (See the list of global courses at Becker). Accepted transfer coursework
equivalent to Becker’s global courses may be included.
C. Education Abroad/Service Learning trips: Approved and documented study abroad
experience (or immersion experience) of at least four weeks, internships, exchanges,
and research experiences. Visiting international students (F-1 Visa) may count their
higher education experiences at Becker or elsewhere outside their home
nation/culture.
Complete the following short essays in 250-500 words:
D. Cultural Immersion: Describe a minimum of two service-learning trips (local and/or
international) you have participated in including insights you gained from your
experiences with diversity.
2
E. Leadership/Recognition in Global Citizenship: Describe examples of your
leadership roles assumed and/or recognition/awards received for work and
contributions as a global citizen.
F. Cross-cultural Project/Presentation: Describe or attach an example of a project
you completed for a global course integrating Becker’s Global Learning Outcomes.
G. Cross-cultural Awareness: Describe what you have learned about your own culture
in relation to other cultures. Describe the differences and similarities that you have
observed between your native culture and at least one other culture/ethnic group.
Examples of such differences and similarities include group dynamics, cultural
norms, rituals, gender roles, cultural practices, and systems of privilege and
difference.
H. Community Service: Describe at least two examples of productive and valued
community service in which you have participated that benefited individuals or
groups in your community or in another nation/culture.
I. Future Impact: How have your global learning experiences impacted your career
goals/understanding of your major area of study? How do you think these
experiences (knowledge, skills, and aptitudes) will impact your future personal and
professional growth and next steps? Explain why you believe you are “world ready”
as you leave Becker College. (Please refer to the College’s Global Learning Outcomes
for this section).
3