As a South Piedmont Global Scholar of Distinction, you’ll have the chance to learn about the world! Whether you explore the globe from home, our campuses in Anson and Union counties, or through a study-abroad trip, you’ll access courses, webinars, presentations, films, field trips, or international trips that will enhance your understanding of the world and its people.
Global Scholars of Distinction is offered to South Piedmont students through a collaboration between UNC Chapel Hill, South Piedmont, and several other community colleges across North Carolina.
Global Scholars Benefits
From expanding your professional network to deepening your understanding of yourself, there are many reasons to participate in the Global Scholars program.
A World of Opportunity
You may receive scholarships, internships, and service-learning, employment, and study-abroad opportunities.
Enhanced Learning
The Global Scholars program enhances careers in fields as varied as law, business, journalism, government, engineering and advertising. Whatever you want to do, Global Scholars will prepare you to do it at the highest level.
Recognition
Your completion of the Global Scholars program will be noted on your transcripts, and you’ll receive a special cord to wear at graduation as well as a certificate of completion.


Veronica’s Story
Studying abroad was the most transformative and beautiful experience of my academic years. Traveling to Europe allowed me to discover more about myself and the world around me. I was exposed to so much knowledge and diversity during such a brief stay.
I was able to test what I had learned in my Global Scholars courses. During my stay, I was a constant witness to the potential of human labor and intellect, and I still gain inspiration from the photos, data, and people that I had the pleasure to meet.
I have greatly expanded my cultural awareness, and I started to see the world with different eyes when I returned: It is now easier to be accepting and adapt to multicultural environments. Becoming a Global Scholar has been an unforgettable adventure, and I am overjoyed to present myself as a citizen of the world.
— Veronica Gallego, ’23 South Piedmont graduate who studied in London and Paris
Requirements & Next Steps
To apply for and complete the Global Scholars program, students must meet certain eligibility requirements.
To apply for and remain in the Global Scholars program, you must have and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
To complete the South Piedmont Global Scholars of Distinction Program, you must:
- Complete a project that includes an in-depth exploration of your learning
- Complete 15 hours of credit from courses with a global designation
- Participate in a total of 8 “Passport Activities”; these are special events and activities with a global focus
- Participate in an approved study abroad or international service-learning experience or complete 30 hours of experiences related to cultural, international, and global study
To become a Global Scholar, contact Director of Academic Enrichment programs Tammy Frailly at tfrailly@spcc.edu.
Succeed on a Global Scale
Global Scholars of Distinction is an academic program that provides South Piedmont students with global competencies and skills needed for success at universities that focus on global education and for employment in the 21st century workplace.
Students in any South Piedmont degree program may participate in Global Scholars of Distinction.




The World Is Yours to Discover
With Global Scholars, you’ll become a global detective and uncover some of the world’s most intriguing mysteries, all while honing your research superpowers. Learn to break down cultural barriers and bridge cultures through travel or domestic opportunities.
Tammy Frailly, Director of Academic Enrichment Programs