(Courtesy/Jeremy Morgan)

The Global Scholar program is a three-year organization that enables high school students to develop analytical skills and solve real-world problems in their pursuit of advancing global understanding. The program combines the Year One students who focus on gaining awareness of a variety of global components. The Year Two students focus on skill building on the knowledge they gained in their first year and take an eCourse. The program concludes with students in Year Three participating in a take-action project, combining the skills and knowledge they have learned over the course of two years.  

On Thursday, February 19, 13 Year One Global Scholars from the freshman and sophomore classes visited the Byrd Polar & Climate Research Center, with their advisor, Mr. Mena. Students were divided into three groups, along with Global Scholar students from other area schools. Each group began with a discussion led by a Global Scholar instructor and learned about climate change and global warming by “touring” the Arctic research area and learning about Antarctica’s climate patterns.  

All the students came together in the auditorium for a panel discussion led by Ohio State researchers, who answered questions relating to their work in climate-based research. Students asked questions and heard how research connects to real-world climate solutions. 

Students ended the day witnnteractive activity using the En-ROADS Climate Solution Simulator, which models how different climate strategies have impacted temperatures and enabled students to collaborate with their peers. 

Senior and Year Three Global Scholar, Eesha T, said, “I think it’s great that we have a new Year One program. I’m really excited for them to get to Year Three and be able to do and take action projects.”