First-Year Global Experience (FGX)

Theme: Transformation through Business and Leadership: Business as a force for Good in South Africa and A Breathtaking Wildlife Safari Haven 
Program Affiliation: All Leeds First-Year Students 
Travel Dates: May 1-11, 2027
Approximate Cost: $5,350-$5,450
Faculty Leader: Dr. Ellie Gates

Program Description: Experience Cape Town, South Africa. This nation was once ripped apart by Apartheid and has now been voted as the World’s “Best city to visit" by The Telegraph and Time Out. Join us for an epic 10-day adventure that blends learning, culture, and exploration. Cape Town offers a rich mix of history, innovation, and natural beauty. Dive into its dynamic business landscape, where tech startups, social enterprises, and traditional craft industries showcase entrepreneurial spirit. Walk in Nelson Mandela’s footsteps on Robben Island and explore South Africa’s painful and powerful history through one man’s unrelenting vision and transformational leadership. Enjoy panoramic views from Table Mountain, visit a penguin colony, and—if time allows—relax on one of Cape Town’s scenic beaches. Discover vibrant cultural hubs and historic sites that reflect the city’s diverse heritage. We will conclude our trip by witnessing  Africa’s iconic Big 5 wildlife on safari at Aquila Game Reserve, where lions and elephants roam free. This immersive journey blends education and adventure in a truly unforgettable experience. This journey will not only inspire you—it will transform you!

Theme: Experience Denmark- one of the happiest countries in the world- where innovation, sustainability, and quality of life come together.
Program Affiliation: All Leeds First-Year Students 
Travel Dates: May 1-9, 2027
Approximate Cost: $4,450-$4,650
Faculty Leader: Julie Smith

Program Description: Discover how this small country has become a global leader in business, design, green energy, and sustainable living. Learn how Danish values such as trust, teamwork, creativity, and work-life balance shape how people live and work. Along the way, experience the Danish concept of hygge- the tradition of creating a cozy, comfortable atmosphere and enjoying simple moments with others- while enjoying incredible food and seeing how sustainability is woven into everyday life.

We will also explore Copenhagen’s colorful neighborhoods, historic sites, modern architecture, and famous cycling culture. And we’ll take a day trip to neighboring Sweden to expand your understanding of Scandinavian culture, business, and innovation.

Come see what makes Denmark stand out in Europe- and discover how a week in Copenhagen could change the way you think about business, success, sustainability, and happiness.

Theme: The City of Lilies and the Eternal City: Exploring the intersection of Food, Art, Culture and Sport
Program Affiliation: All Leeds First-Year Students 
Travel Dates: May 1-9, 2027
Approximate Cost: $5,100-$5,400
Faculty Leader: Michael Jennings Michael.Jennings-2@Colorado.edu

Program Description: Come discover the very best of Italy with a seamless journey through its two most iconic chapters: Florence and Rome.  This legendary adventure blends the artistic romance of the Renaissance with the breathtaking majesty of the ancient world.  Wander Florence's cobblestone streets, enjoy a world-class panini strolling past the Uffizi Galleries, and soak in the sunset views over the Ponte Vecchio.  Stand inside Rome’s mighty Colosseum, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and explore the marble ruins of the Forum and Palatine Hill.  Which business visit will inspire your entrepreneurial passion – the oldest family-run gelato factory, sampling their authentic pistachio – or browsing the hand-crafted artisanal leather goods stitched in a former monastery? Will you find the secrets to the Gucci and Ferragamo fortunes – or spend time discovering authentic Tuscan and Lazio culinary perfection?  Is your luggage large enough to accommodate fan gear from Serie A futbol clubs Fiorentina, AS Roma, and Lazio?  Which picture will be more iconic – Brunelleschi’s Duomo, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Michelangelo’s David, the Roman Colosseum, the Sistine Chapel, or the view from the top of St. Peter’s Basilica?  Your answers await – May 2027!

Theme: Businesses and Contemplative Leadership
Program Affiliation:All Leeds First-Year Students, offered in partnership with Dali Lama Fellows
Travel Dates: Expected: May 10 to 22, 2027
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Sebastián Villa

Program Description: Wedged between India and China, home to eight of the world's ten highest peaks, and the birthplace of mindfulness practice 2,500 years ago, Nepal has always demanded resilience, adaptability, and a steady mind from its people. That makes it one of the most instructive classrooms anywhere for developing the leadership skills today's business world demands: managing ambiguity, staying grounded under pressure, and leading with clarity and compassion. Students will learn the fundamentals of global business and competitive strategy in emerging markets, then see it firsthand: visiting local enterprises spanning clean energy innovation to women-led sustainability initiatives, and touring Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage sites. Along the way, we will study contemplative leadership — mindfulness, reflection, and compassion — and explore how they sharpen focus, judgment, and cross-cultural communication in different business moments. *Limited spaces available

Theme: Experience firsthand how historic European enterprises transformed into global market leaders.
Program Affiliation: All Leeds First-Year Students 
Travel Dates: May 1-9, 2027
Approximate Cost: $4,350-$4,450
Faculty Leader: Pablo Slough

Program Description: FGX Madrid provides first-year business students with an immersive exploration into how a historical European capital transformed into a dynamic engine for multinational enterprise and innovation. Designed to bridge foundational business coursework with global market realities, this program takes students beyond classroom case studies to examine a compelling economic narrative: how homegrown enterprises with humble domestic origins evolved into resilient, highly competitive global market leaders. Through a curated blend of high-level corporate engagements, entrepreneurial discussions, and cultural site visits, students gain a grounded, first-hand understanding of European commerce, cross-border strategy, and corporate adaptability.

Theme: Business at the Crossroads of Asia 
Program Affiliation: All Leeds First-Year Students 
Travel Dates: Spring Break 2027
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: R. Scott Livengood

Program Description:
Singapore is one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs—a small island nation that has transformed itself into a global center for trade, finance, technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Its location at the crossroads of Asia makes Singapore an ideal place to explore how businesses navigate different markets, cultures, and opportunities in a rapidly changing global economy.

Experience Singapore beyond the classroom through visits with businesses and entrepreneurs, conversations with local leaders, and exploration of the city’s diverse neighborhoods and cultures. Wander through Chinatown and Little India, sample food at Singapore’s famous hawker centers, explore the spectacular Gardens by the Bay, and experience one of the safest, cleanest, and most multicultural cities in the world. Along the way, you’ll discover how Singapore blends Asian traditions with cutting-edge innovation—and gain a new perspective on what it means to do business globally.

Join us for Spring Break 2027 and make Singapore your first step into the global business world!

Theme: Business at the Edge of Europe
Program Affiliation: Diverse Scholars Program
Travel Dates: May 1-9, 2027
Approximate Cost: $4,500-$4,900
Faculty Leader: Elmer Ramos

Program Description: For centuries, Portugal’s position at the western edge of Europe made it a global leader in exploration and discovery. Today, Portugal is re-emerging as one of Europe’s growth engines, attracting both business investment and new residents. Its capital and largest city, Lisbon, is a rich blend of tradition and modernity. In this class, we’ll experience the old (such as wine- and tile-making) and the new (such as renewable agriculture and professional football), as Portugal seeks to balance heritage and innovation

Theme: Understanding the intersection of technology and global business
Program Affiliation: BEWiT and IBE
Travel Dates: March 11-20, 2027
Approximate Cost: $5,000-$5,400
Faculty Leader: Darrell Zechman

Program Description: Panama is where tropical beauty meets global ambition. This dynamic destination offers a unique intersection of rich culture, international business, and innovation. During our experience, we will explore the historic streets of Casco Viejo, visit the Panama Canal—one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements—and discover how Panama’s strategic position continues to shape global trade. We will connect with women in technology and business, engage with local and indigenous communities, and gain firsthand insight into the diverse perspectives and opportunities shaping Panama’s future. From exploring the country’s vibrant culture to learning from local leaders and organizations, this experience will challenge students to think beyond borders and see the world through a global lens. Panama is more than a destination; it is an opportunity to expand perspectives, build meaningful connections, and grow as the global leaders of tomorrow.

Theme: Global entrepreneurship & innovation in Chile 
Program Affiliation: Dean's Fellows
Travel Dates: March 12-21, 2027
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Erick Mueller

Program Description: We’ll experience Chile and all of its vibrant energy and intrigue in a number of ways. First, we’ll learn about the rich cultural and economic history from our home base in Santiago for a few days. Second, we’ll dive into a flash consulting project, helping disadvantaged entrepreneurs move their ventures forward from the beautiful beach community of Valparaiso. Third, we’ll learn about the fascinating wine industry of Chile and how this has become one of its biggest exports. And lastly, we’ll learn all about what makes Chile a gem of South America - from the Andes Mountains to its world-class beaches to the Atacama desert to the intriguing history of Easter Island, we’ll experience first-hand why Chile is so amazing. ¡Qué bueno!

Theme: Where Business Comes Alive
Program Affiliation: Pre-Business
Travel Dates: March 12-21, 2027
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Marcia Kwaramba

Program Description: Step into one of the world's most dynamic economies on this unforgettable 8-day study tour to Seoul, South Korea. You'll visit companies and institutions across some of Korea's most influential industries: from the forces driving its economy and finance sector, to the business behind the global K-pop phenomenon, advanced manufacturing and smart factories, robotics and automation, and consumer goods and fashion e-commerce innovation. It's a week of firsthand insight into how the concepts you're just starting to learn play out on a world stage. Beyond the boardroom, wear a traditional hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Palace, explore the UNESCO-listed Changdeokgung Palace, and wander the hanok homes of Bukchon Village. Taste your way through Gwangjang Market, take in the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, and spend a full day at scenic Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm.

Theme: Sustainable Business Down Under
Program Affiliation: Leeds Honors Program
Travel Dates: March 11-21, 2027
Approximate Cost: TBD
Faculty Leader: Dr. Meghan Van Portfliet 

Program Description: We'll experience the Land Down Under through the lens of sustainability, exploring how one of the world's most naturally stunning countries is confronting some of its biggest environmental and economic challenges. Australia sits at a genuine crossroads, balancing its legacy as a major fossil fuel exporter with an accelerating shift toward renewable energy, new corporate sustainability reporting requirements, and a growing critical minerals industry powering the global clean tech transition. Through a series of company visits, we'll go behind the scenes with local businesses navigating these exact tensions, from the future of Australia's energy mix, to the balance between economic growth and environmental protection. We'll also roll up our sleeves for a hands on service learning project, working directly with the local community on sustainability focused initiatives. And of course, we'll soak in everything that makes Sydney unforgettable, touring the iconic Opera House, exploring the Sydney Cricket Ground, sipping our way through a local winery, hiking the Blue Mountains, and walking the stunning coastal trail from Bondi to Coogee Beach.

Theme: Tradition Meets Tomorrow
Program Affiliation: Leeds Scholars Program
Travel Dates: May 6 – 14, 2027
Approximate Cost: Contact Alyssa Radtke
Faculty Leader: Alyssa Radtke

Program Description: Explore Tokyo, Japan, a city where centuries-old traditions and cutting-edge innovation exist side by side. Through cultural experiences, business visits, community engagement, and time spent navigating one of the world’s most dynamic cities, Leeds Scholars will examine how Japan balances its rich history with its vision for the future. This FGX will challenge students to look beyond the tourist experience and consider how culture, technology, business, and globalization shape everyday life in Tokyo. From ancient temples and traditional customs to global corporations, entrepreneurship, and emerging technology, students will experience the many layers of a city that is constantly evolving while remaining deeply connected to its past.