Global Leadership Distinction

Ready to stand out

The modern workforce doesn't stop at state or national borders. The Global Leadership Distinction (GLD) equips you to stand out by turning cross-cultural curiosity into a recognized, resume-defining credential. 

At UNG, education extends beyond the lecture hall. We challenge students to step outside familiar terrain, back them with practical institutional resources, and equip them to step into leadership roles anywhere in the world. 

The GLD validates your ability to engage complex international challenges, communicate across cultures, and lead in diverse environments. 

• Verified Competitive Advantage: This distinction provides tangible proof to employers that you possess real-world adaptability, cultural fluency, and global competence beyond standard coursework.
• Direct Career Pathways: Whether your ambitions are local, multinational, or abroad, you will build the specific soft skills and perspective required to excel in high-stakes professional settings.
• Structured support: The program provides structured access to campus resources, mentorship, and experiential learning tailored to your career goals.

Open to all bachelor’s degree-seeking students across all five UNG campuses.

Earn a total of five credits across your undergraduate journey by completing one Tier I experience and three Tier II milestones. 

Tier I Experience

Complete one Tier I option. Each option is two credits.

1. Global Nighthawk: Serve for one year as a Global Nighthawk by participating in a study abroad program and interning with the Center for Global Engagement (CGE) the following semester.
2. Global Ambassador: Serve for one year as a Global Ambassador (open to international students only) through an internship with CGE, where you'll mentor and support the international student community.
3. Global Learning Community: Live for one year in the Global Learning Community, participate in special programming each semester and complete the required curricular assignments.

Tier II Experience

Complete three Tier II options. Each option is one credit each.

1. Nationally Competitive Scholarship: Apply for a Nationally Competitive Scholarship to study abroad.
2. International Student Association: Serve as an officer in the International Student Association for at least one academic year.
3. International Internship: Complete an internship abroad or a domestic internship with an international focus approved by your department.
4. CGE Service-Learning Day: Volunteer in a CGE Service-Learning Day event held annually during spring break.
5. CGE Career Connections: Participate in an annual CGE Career Connections event as a volunteer or panelist.
6. Global Project or Event: Lead a globally focused project or event on your campus that is approved by CGE.

For questions or to register to participate in the program, contact global@ung.edu