Global Citizenship Program

• An appreciation for diversity and multiple perspectives
• Active engagement in the community, both locally and globally
• Personal responsibility for one's actions, and any consequences
• Recognition that all people have rights, and a commitment towards global equality
• Understanding of the economic, social, cultural, political, and environmental relationship that exists among all people and countries
• Critical thinking about personal beliefs, actions, communication, global issues and relationships
• A capacity for effective intercultural communication and personal adaptability

"Studying overseas forced me to step outside my comfort zone. It helped me to grow as a person, and gain confidence. I made friendships that will last a lifetime. I think everyone should take a semester abroad. I will never forget the great times I had." - Jasmine Butler, Deakin student, Ecuador exchange

"Nothing quite prepares you for the impact a volunteering program like this has on your life." - Sophie Jamieson, Deakin student, Malawi volunteering program 2014

The Global Citizenship Program is designed to help you develop the skills necessary to be a global citizen. As such, there are internationally-related activities that will foster these attributes that must be completed. Each activity is given a point value based on its associated skills, and the extent to which each skill is developed. To apply for the Global Citizenship Award, you must earn a total of at least 100 points. The activities must be completed in the time of your Deakin degree. In addition, you may prepare reflective pieces on many of the activities you participate in, and explore how they have contributed to your development as a global citizen.

Please note that the list of activities given are pre-approved. If you have completed an activity that you feel is worthy of GCP points, please email with details and Deakin Abroad staff can make an assessment.

View the 'Apply now!' tab to find out how to apply for the program and award.

Activities

*Please note: Students involved in the Faculty Peer mentoring/support programs may be eligible for GCP points (10 per trimester with a cap of 20). To be eligible for these points the student must submit a 500 word (minimum) reflection on the international experience they had within the program. This international focus must be clearly outlined to be eligible for points. A program completion certificate must be provided with the application.

In addition to encouraging personal growth, an overseas experience contributes to your employability. Organisations are operating in an increasingly global context and need employees with the abilities to work within a global workplace. 'Soft skills' that are associated with global competence and international experience, such as creativity, flexibility, and leadership acumen, are skills organisations look for in graduate candidates.

In fact, many employers say that undertaking an international study experience shows an individual has drive, initiative and the ability to adapt to change - attributes that make a candidate stand out.

Personal development:

• Increased maturity
• Increased independence
• Increased self-confidence
• Increased tolerance to ambiguity, conflict and change
• Enhanced leadership skills
• Improved interpersonal and intercultural communication skills
• Improved foreign language ability
• Better relationships
• Increased ability to appreciate multiple perspectives and diversity

Academic development:

• Enhanced interest in academics
• Enhanced problem-solving skills
• Reinforced commitment to and persistent with academia

Career development:

• Enhanced planning, organisation and time management skills
• Improved networking skills
• Increased ability to manage a budget
• Increased regional understanding
• Increased business acumen

Excited yet? Read on to find out how to apply!

Apply for the Global Citizenship Program

1. Email your full name, student ID and course code to: global-citizenship@deakin.edu.au. We will include you in our database and update you with the latest international opportunities.

2. Participate in a variety of internationally-related activities such as: international study, volunteering, internships, conferences, or units, or domestic activities with an international focus.

3.  Earn a total of at least 100 points to be eligible for the Global Citizenship Award.

Apply for the Global Citizenship Award

Download, complete & submit the GCP application form (PDF, 274.6KB)along with the required supporting documents, by the 31st of August 2016. Should your application be successful, you will receive the Global Citizenship Award!

The Global Citizenship Program welcomes participation from international students. At Deakin, we recognise the significance of your decision to study abroad.

Whether you plan on returning home or staying in Australia, the Global Citizenship Program has been designed to equip you with skills that will place you at an advantage in the global job market. You may have already developed some skills while living and studying in Australia, so why not get these skills certified?

International students are automatically granted 60 points for their enrolment at Deakin - which means you only need 40 more points to apply for an award! There are opportunities to study abroad for a trimester or two, volunteer or work abroad, study a foreign language, or attend international conferences. As an international student, you are able to undertake an overseas study experience as part of your Deakin degree, however, there are also Global Citizenship opportunities in Australia that you can take advantage of, including on Deakin's campuses.

Make the most of your international education experience by participating in the pre-approved activities listed below or, refer to the full list under the 'Activities and Outcomes' tab. If you have questions or need assistance, contact us at global-citizenship@deakin.edu.au or drop by our office.