First-Year Global Experience (FGX)
FGX is a two-credit business elective (BADM 1260) taught during the spring semester with a week-long global experience during spring break or the May term. FGX lets students get a jump start on study abroad, learn how international issues and cultural differences impact the business world, and take the first step in developing a global mindset.
Some FGX programs are limited to specific Leeds populations, while others are open to all Leeds first-year students.
Program costs vary by location but range from $4,000 to $5,500. Upon signing the FGX student agreement in October, a $500 non-refundable deposit will be placed on the CU student account. The remaining balance is due in the spring along with standard CU tuition. Partial scholarships ($1,000 - $2,000) may be awarded based on demonstrated financial need. Students may apply for scholarship consideration through the online FGX enrollment form.
For the spring of 2026, we are excited to offer enrollment for first-year students. For more information on the enrollment process, please visit the FGX FAQs page. Tentative program locations are listed below.
Open to all Leeds first-year students:
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Florence, Italy
- Madrid, Spain
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Tokyo, Japan
Restricted to Leeds-special programs:
- Buenos Aires, Argentina - Pre-Business
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Leeds Honors Program
- Istanbul, Turkey - Diverse Scholars Program
- To Be Announced - Leeds Scholars Program
- Panama City, Panama - Leeds Women's Programs
- Sydney, Australia - Dean's Leadership Fellows
IMPORTANT: U.S. passport processing times are experiencing delays, with regular processing taking up to 13 weeks and even expedited processing taking up to 9 weeks. If you are considering going abroad in 2026 and need to renew or apply for a new passport, we recommend applying as soon as possible! More information can be found on the State Department's website.
Spring 2026 Program Locations
Theme: From Boom to Bust…to Boom?: How Argentina went from an economic powerhouse to economic chaos, and how businesses adapt.
Program Affiliation: Pre-Business and a limited number of first-year students
Travel Dates: Spring break 2026
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Kevin Schaub
Program Description: Learn how Argentina has gone from an economic powerhouse at the start of the 20th century to a financial disaster, and how businesses have navigated the chaos. We will visit businesses located in and around Buenos Aires that have taken on the unique challenges associated with ongoing economic instability and a complex regulatory environment. We’ll also explore Buenos Aires’ cultural sites, including San Telmo Market, Recoleta Cemetery, and the La Boca neighborhood, in addition to learning to tango and make empanadas! And we’ll take a day trip to a working ranch to experience the gaucho life, an integral part of the Argentine agricultural industry. Weather permitting, we’ll also take a day trip to neighboring Uruguay and the World Heritage site, Colonia Del Sacramento.
Theme: From Global Business Hub to Wild Life Safari Haven: Navigating South Africa’s Path in Today’s Economy
Program Affiliation: All Leeds First-Year Students
Travel Dates: May 2026
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Marcia Kwaramba
Program Description: Discover the magic of Cape Town, where history, innovation, and adventure come alive. Begin your journey on Robben Island, walking in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela and feeling the profound impact of his struggle for freedom at the historic prison that once held him. Next, dive into Cape Town’s vibrant business scene, where innovative tech startups and traditional craft workshops reveal the city’s creative spirit and global impact. Experience the thrill of the wild at the Aquila Game Reserve, where you’ll witness majestic lions against the sunset and graceful giraffes drinking from tranquil watering holes. Complete your adventure by savoring Cape Town's renowned culinary delights, from diverse street food to engaging cooking classes where you'll learn to create and enjoy South African dishes. This unforgettable experience blends captivating history, groundbreaking innovation, wildlife wonder, and culinary excellence into one remarkable journey. Cape Town awaits to inspire and amaze you!
Theme: Business Growth in the UAE
Program Affiliation: Leeds Honors Program
Travel Dates: Spring Break 2026
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Scott Livengood
Program Description: Learn why the UAE has become a key international trade hub between the East and West. Visit Dubai’s diverse businesses and rich cultural sites. Shop in the local souks, ski indoors or go to the top of the world’s tallest building. Take a day excursion to the capital city of Abu Dhabi and see the gorgeous Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque along the way. Don't miss the chance to experience the grandeur of the UAE!
Program Affiliation: All Leeds First-Year Students
Travel Dates: May 2026
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Michael Jennings
Theme: Istanbul: Business at the Crossroads of the World
Program Affiliation: Divers Scholars Program
Travel Dates: May 2026
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Elmer Ramos
Program Description: Turkey is called the “crossroads of the world” for good reason: It’s uniquely situated in both Europe and Asia, straddling two distinct continents and cultures. Turkey blends history and modernity like no other country. Its largest city, Istanbul, is home to a dynamic business environment as well as centuries-old landmarks. During our weeklong visit, we’ll stay on the European side but also cross the Bosporus to the Asian side, learning about the businesses and people that drive this vibrant nation.
Program Affiliation: Leeds Scholars Program
Travel Dates: May 2026
Approximate Cost: Please contact Alyssa Radtke
Faculty Leader: Alyssa Radtke
Program Affiliation: All Leeds First-Year Students
Travel Dates: May 2026
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Erik Estrada
Theme: Understanding the intersection of technology and global business from a women’s perspective.
Program Affiliation: Leeds Women's Programs
Travel Dates: Spring Break 2026
Approximate Cost: Please contact Ginnie Benson
Faculty Leader: Ginnie Benson
Program Affiliation: Dean's Leadership Fellows
Travel Dates: Spring Break 2026
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Erik Mueller
Program Affiliation: All Leeds First-Year Students
Travel Dates: May 2026
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Julie Smith
*Prices are initial estimates and are subject to change before the enrollment date. Program locations are also subject to change and will ultimately be confirmed by Leeds Global.
Visit the First-Year Experience Program page
To learn more about student experiences designed specifically for first-year students.
Events & Deadlines
- FGX 2026 Enrollment - late September