How To Get The Most Out Of Your Gap Year, International Internship, Or Volunteer Experience To Become A Global Citizen.
We all reside in multiple communities. Our immediate communities, such as our families, our social networks, our educational institutions, and our places of employment or worship. broader areas, like our town or neighbourhood. And a global community, as a world citizen. What can each of us do with the authority and privilege that come from being a member of a global community given that we all share the same planet?
What is a Global Citizen?
A global citizen is someone who recognises that they are a part of a larger global community and who believes they can contribute positively to their community. They respect and value the fact that we all are a part of an intricate web of interconnected communities with a right to exist in a world that is fair, equal, and healthy. Curious, innovative, and dedicated to helping create such a world, global citizens work to advance causes that will strengthen and facilitate it.
The international community has decided that by 2030, it will be made sure that all students have the knowledge and abilities necessary to support sustainable development, including global citizenship. According to UN reports, universities have a duty to encourage global citizenship by instilling in their students the understanding that they are a part of a vast global community and can use their knowledge and training to benefit that community.
Why become a Global Citizen?
For decades, it has been much simpler to cross borders. Travelling between them has never been easier, and international political systems affect all of us. Ideas and cultures are no longer contained within them. We are all impacted by global issues such as the impending climate catastrophe, sustainable development, redressing historical wrongs, human rights protections, democratic participation, access to healthcare and education, equitable resource distribution, and preserving cultural diversity. We can only overcome them if we cooperate. These are collective issues that call for a collective response.
How to become a Global Citizen?
You must be innovative, flexible, and devoted to becoming a global citizen. Global citizens are engaged, pro-active members of the international community who are dedicated to contributing meaningfully and constructively to its development. Aspiring global citizens therefore need to develop their capacity for problem-solving, judgement, critical analysis, collaboration, and communication. These abilities are necessary for both professional and personal growth.
- Get Inspired: Find inspiration in books, maps, documentaries, movies, podcasts, and your social feeds: All things begin with questions. What place do you wish to visit? Which kind of adventure are you interested in? What subject do you want to learn more about? How would you like to assist? There are thousands of cultures and communities spread across hundreds of different countries. Which of these will make you uncomfortable? Which of these will expand your mind?
- Increase your perspective by learning about the places and people that pique your interest: Take some courses at your high school or college. Begin learning about various cultures, viewpoints, and lifestyles. Become a member of international organizations, pick up a foreign language, or make friends with immigrants from other countries who have settled in your neighborhood. Exchange travel advice, recipes, and stories in cultural exchanges. Or establish a virtual connection with individuals located throughout the world who can impart their firsthand knowledge of the area to you. We both have a ton to learn from one another and to teach.
- Stay Informed: Learning about global issues and trends will help you focus on the topics and issues you care about or want to get involved in the most. Additionally, the more globally minded skills you develop, the better prepared you will be for future professional success. You must stay informed because global trends are only going to grow and change. Read news sources with a global perspective, and keep up with events in locations you might travel to. Have discussions with others about other continents. What sort of conversations are they having? What problems do they have? What solutions are they proposing?
- Travel Abroad: Experience living and working abroad will not only be an adventure and a chance to deepen your understanding of the world, but will also help you develop critical personal and professional skills that will set you up for future success no matter where you eventually choose to settle. Experience everything you have heard and read about firsthand. Find programs that allow you to study and live abroad, perhaps even with an internship component, for increased mentorship and skills development. If these opportunities include a language-learning option, even better!
- Become a Leader: Attend international conferences, participate in international internships, and continue to read up on cross-cultural skills in the work environment from trusted sources. To develop your abilities, organise or lead international travel groups. Plan your own trips and coordinate responsible group travel and study options with your peers. This is also a great way to get more involved with the international community.
- Plan your future as a Global Citizen: Feel ready to start making an impact? Find out more about GVI’s international, award-winning volunteering programs and internships for aspiring global citizens. Don’t forget to let your interests guide you. Nearly every topic of academic study can include and benefit from an international component, and this can help you become a more globally minded citizen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming a global citizen is about more than just understanding the world—it’s about actively engaging with it, embracing diversity, and working toward positive change. By broadening your perspective, staying informed, respecting different cultures, and contributing to global causes, you can make a meaningful impact both locally and internationally. Remember, global citizenship is a lifelong journey that starts with small steps and personal growth. As you continue to learn, connect, and act, you’ll play a vital role in building a more inclusive and sustainable world. Start today, and let your global journey shape a better future for all!