We are incredibly proud of the Global Leadership Youth Program (GLYP), which is approaching its fifth iteration this Summer. A program born out of necessity during the pandemic has quickly become one of our flagship offerings.
We can think of hundreds of reasons why you might consider joining a module of the Global Leadership Youth Program – but here is a selection of our top 10!
New to the Global Leadership Youth Program – or, as it’s more commonly referred to around here – GLYP?
If you’re a high school student looking for an engaging and dynamic summer program, GLYP is the perfect choice for you. Our program consists of week-long modules where students can enroll in as many or as few modules as their schedules and interests allow. We select globally relevant and timely topics for each module based on student feedback, so you can rest assured that you’ll learn something new and valuable with each module.
1. Hone your global perspective
In today’s interconnected world, possessing a global perspective is vital to navigate complex issues. GLYP equips high school students with the tools to analyze the intricate relationships between local, national, and global matters, and to enhance their capacity to comprehend and engage with diverse viewpoints. Through each module, students explore a different globally-relevant topic, and are exposed to multiple perspectives to foster critical thinking and informed decision-making.
2. Connect with global leaders including ambassadors, educators, and entrepreneurs
Each GLYP module features an array of renowned guest speakers, who contribute diverse perspectives and inspiring career stories to the program. Speakers from previous modules include New York Times writer Carl Zimmer, Ambassador Richard Norland, CEO of the Foundation for Climate Restoration Rick Wayman, Ambassador Eric Rubin, Senior Policy Advisor at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of International Affairs, Nathan Williams, Ambassador Niels Marquardt, author and UCSD Professor of Innovation and Public Policy Dr. David Victor, Ambassador Leslie Bassett, and so many more incredible people!
3. Make new friends
GLYP offers a unique opportunity for students to enhance their global leadership and diplomacy skills while also providing a supportive and inclusive environment where San Diego students can connect with their peers who share their interests and passions. Through engaging in group discussions and interactive activities, participants will build lasting friendships and cultivate connections that extend beyond the program. We are proud to offer a safe and welcoming space for students to connect with their peers and engage in meaningful conversations about the world around us.
4. Strengthen your leadership skills
GLYP students have the chance to step into the role of a real-life diplomat through our diplomacy simulations. During this portion of the program, students are given a fictional scenario based on real historical events, and will learn how to communicate effectively, negotiate tactfully, and collaborate to reach a diplomatic resolution through formal and informal rounds of negotiation.
5. Prepare for your future
Taking part in the Global Leadership Youth Program is not just an opportunity to learn about diplomacy and international relations; it is also a chance to prepare for a future career in these fields. Taking part in GLYP will give students a glimpse into what a diplomatic career might look like and provide them with some key language and tips on what to search for in job titles, industries, and college courses to gain experience relevant to an international career. Whether you are interested in diplomacy, business, or any other career path that requires a global perspective, the skills you gain in GLYP will be invaluable.
6. Join a network of thousands of likeminded individuals
The San Diego Diplomacy Council welcomes visitors from over 100 countries each year, and has a network of thousands of local members and partners. Upon completion of GLYP, you will receive a complimentary membership to the San Diego Diplomacy Council. This ensures that you are able to remain connected with our strong local and international community, and gives you exclusive access to alumni events and opportunities! Joining this network is a valuable way to continue your personal and professional development beyond the program.
7. Open the door to other diplomatic opportunities
What are these opportunities, you may ask? For starters, you will receive the benefits that come with SDDC membership including invitations to our Global Social Hour events, annual fundraiser celebration, networking and volunteer opportunities like book discussions and beach cleanups. What’s more, many GLYP alumni are now enrolled in college degrees in international fields. They credit their involvement in the program not only as reassurance to pursue a diplomatic degree, but also as a contributing factor to their acceptance into programs at schools including the University of California, San Diego, Tufts University, the University of California, Los Angeles, and George Washington University. Additionally, some GLYP have pursued other opportunities directly trough the San Diego Diplomacy Council including returning to the program as a Small Group Facilitator, and even joining our team as an intern.
8. Gain college credit
For the first time, in Summer 2023, GLYP will be offering Continuing Education Units (CEUS) to all students who successfully complete five modules of the program, with partial credit for students who complete less than five modules – at no additional cost! CEUS are granted by the University of California, San Diego, and provide an opportunity for students to explore academic interests while preparing for college admission. Courses may be transferable for secondary school credit at the discretion of the receiving institution.
9. Gain hands-on experience
At GLYP, we know that the best way to learn is by doing. This is not a program where you’ll be sitting in a classroom, listening to lectures and taking notes. At GLYP, you’ll learn through experience by taking part in diplomacy simulations, working on collaborative small group projects, and engaging in cultural activities, you will gain practical skills to apply in your future scenarios at school and in life.
10.Expand your cultural awareness
Establishing an understanding of various cultures, values, beliefs and behaviors can lead to personal growth, emotional intelligence, greater communication skills, and an appreciation for the diversity of human experience. Regardless of whether you want a career in international relations, business, law, healthcare, or any other industry, GLYP will provide you with experiences to develop a keen sense of cultural awareness and appreciation of differences.
Bonus reason 11. Have a life changing summer!
Global Leadership Youth Program is a summer enrichment program unlike any other. We are grateful to the people who make this program possible – people like you! GLYP is a transformative program that offers the unique advantage of combining skills in leadership, global awareness, international relations, strategic planning, negotiation, and critical analysis. We are proud to offer a summer program truly unlike any other.
Ready to enroll in the Global Leadership Youth Program?
We would love to have you join us in Summer 2023!
Registration is now open for all five modules of GLYP. Find out more and register today.
Questions? Our inbox is always open! Reach out to Program Associate, Julia Masias at julia@sandiegodiplomacy.org
Leave a Reply