Leadership in a Globalized World: Lessons from Singapore
Alert
This program has been canceled for summer 2026.
Singapore
Why you should go
This program is for any student who wants to grow as a leader-- whether you picture yourself running a team, shaping policy, working in tech, creating art, or simply making an impact in your community. Leadership isn’t just about titles or positions; it’s about developing the skills, confidence, and perspectives to rise, grow, and succeed in any professional path. Whether you’re studying life sciences, social sciences, arts, or engineering, leadership is a skill that transcends majors and opens doors.
And what better place to do this than Singapore? Known as one of the most dynamic and forward-looking city-states in the world, Singapore is a living laboratory for studying leadership, globalization, and multiculturalism. From its rich history to its role as a hub of innovation, diplomacy, and diversity, Singapore provides an unparalleled backdrop to think critically about leadership while experiencing life in a truly global city.
Courses
Faculty Leader
William (Bill) Robertson Geibelwgeibel@ucsd.edu
Bill(y) Robertson Geibel is an Assistant Teaching Professor and the Associate Director of Experiential Learning at Sixth College, where he focuses on creating transformative learning experiences that allow students to grow personally, professionally, and civically.
Born in Singapore and having spent much of his childhood in the Asia-Pacific region, Dr. Robertson-Geibel has been fascinated by the cultural diversity that exists in the world from a very young age. These early global experiences taught him invaluable lessons in cultural/emotional intelligence, intercultural communication, and perspective-taking that have guided his career and life.
Dr. Robertson-Geibel has been lucky enough to see and experience many parts of the world, from Turkey to Fiji, but he is excited to return to Singapore, a place that has always held a fond place in his heart. (Fun Fact: Most of his earliest social studies papers were on Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's founding leader; in case that helps to communicate the extent of his excitement for this program!)
This seminar brings together Dr. Robertson Geibel's largest interests--leadership, globalization, and intercultural engagement--and he is excited to explore them with you in one of the world’s most unique global cities.
Who should go
Bill(y) Robertson Geibel is an Assistant Teaching Professor and the Associate Director of Experiential Learning at Sixth College, where he focuses on creating transformative learning experiences that allow students to grow personally, professionally, and civically.
Born in Singapore and having spent much of his childhood in the Asia-Pacific region, Dr. Robertson-Geibel has been fascinated by the cultural diversity that exists in the world from a very young age. These early global experiences taught him invaluable lessons in cultural/emotional intelligence, intercultural communication, and perspective-taking that have guided his career and life.
Dr. Robertson-Geibel has been lucky enough to see and experience many parts of the world, from Turkey to Fiji, but he is excited to return to Singapore, a place that has always held a fond place in his heart. (Fun Fact: Most of his earliest social studies papers were on Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's founding leader; in case that helps to communicate the extent of his excitement for this program!)
This seminar brings together Dr. Robertson Geibel's largest interests--leadership, globalization, and intercultural engagement--and he is excited to explore them with you in one of the world’s most unique global cities.
Information Sessions
- General (choose one):
- Tuesday, Sept. 30th, 3:00-4:00pm PST (zoom)
- Tuesday, Oct. 28th, 3:30-4:30pm PST (in-person)
- Program: To be determined
- Register here for the live Zoom link, and/or to get the post-session recording.
- Information session presentation (pdf)
Dates
| Departure from U.S.: | Sat., June 27, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Arrival: | Sun., June 28, 2026 |
| Mandatory Orientation: | Mon., June 29, 2026 |
| First Day of Class: | Tues., June 30, 2026 |
| Last Day of Class: | Fri., July 31, 2026 |
| Departure for the U.S. (or personal travel): |
Sat., August 1, 2026 |
Flight Information
- You will be responsible for purchasing your own airplane tickets, and your program coordinator will provide guidelines and resources during the pre-departure process to help you find an appropriate flight.
- Do not purchase plane tickets until the program is confirmed. All approved applicants will be notified by e-mail when the program has reached minimum enrollment.
Global Seminar Fees
All fees subject to change. See https://summersession.ucsd.edu/tuition/tuition.html for current tuition and campus-based fees.
| UCSD | Other UC | Non-UC | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Cost: (includes $500 administrative fee) |
TBD | ||
| Estimated Tuition and Campus-Based Fees: |
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| Total: (not including airfare or personal expenses) |
Budget Sheet
- TBD
Funding Options
See the funding options page to learn how financial aid and scholarships can help you pay for this program.
Local Site Visits
- National Museum of Singapore
- Cultural district tours (Kampong Glam, Little India and Chinatown)
- Walking tour of Civic District or URA gallery
- Volunteering at Willing Hearts
Excursions are subject to change without prior notice. No refunds are possible.
Housing
- TBD
- Housing arrangements are subject to change based on local circumstances without prior notice. No price adjustments are possible.
Included Meals
- Welcome dinner upon arrival
- Farewell dinner at end of program
Classroom and Computer Access
- Classroom space at our on-site providers study center or Alberto Hurtado University
- There is no computer lab available - plan to bring a laptop.
- Wireless access may be intermittent due to local conditions. No refunds or price adjustments are possible.
Transportation
- Transportation by private bus to and from Santiago International Airport to the student housing is included in the program. Two different pick-up times will be arranged based on the most common flight arrival times.
- A local transportation pass for Santiago will be provided for each student.
- Transportation for all out of town excursions
Phones
- Information about how to obtain a local SIM card will be provided at the pre-departure orientation.
- Students will be responsible to purchase their own calling time/minutes.
Insurance, Health, and Safety
- Comprehensive insurance package with Company
- An in-depth orientation will be given on the morning after arrival, including health and safety procedures.
- Program partner staff will be available by telephone after hours.
- All students will be registered for UC travel insurance This is free coverage, but registration is required prior to departure.
