Travel Abroad with Global Scholars!
One of the most important requirements of Global Scholars is to engage in an international experience. Travel provides a unique opportunity to see the world firsthand, stepping beyond the pages of books or screens and immersing yourself in diverse cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking. It helps broaden perspectives, foster empathy, and develop a deeper understanding of our interconnected world.
Through travel, our students gain invaluable skills such as adaptability, cultural competency, and problem-solving—all essential for thriving in today’s global society. These experiences not only enrich personal growth but also enhance academic and professional journeys by encouraging critical thinking and creativity in real-world contexts.
​
Explore where Global Scholars has been and where we’re headed:
Upcoming 2026 Travels
Malta & Nepal
Discover the exciting opportunities awaiting our scholars in Malta and Nepal
Malta 2026
Marine Biology, Diving & Ocean Conservation
Dive into Marine Biology & Conservation in Malta
​
In July 2026, 32 EHS students and staff will embark on a marine biology and conservation dive expedition to Malta! Open to current EHS freshmen and sophomores, this two-week travel-based learning experience is led by Edina Global Scholars coordinator and science teacher Lindsey Smaka and hosted by DiveWise Malta.
​
Status: Currently Accepting Applications!
Priority deadline for applications: February 14, 2025
Nepal 2026
Global Scholars Service Expedition
Discover Nepal: A Journey of Culture, Connection, and Service
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Nepal in August 2026, where culture, collaboration, and service intersect! Join us in partnership with the Rotary Club of Edina and Nepal to explore Nepal’s rich heritage and vibrant communities. Open to all current EHS freshmen and sophomores (priority given to Global Scholars), this two-week travel-based learning experience is led by Edina Global Scholars coordinator Lindsey Smaka in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Edina and Kathmandu and travel company Real Himalaya. Students will spend approximately two weeks immersed in the country.
Past Travels
Reflect on past journeys to places like Madagascar, Portugal & Zimbabwe where students connected deeply with the people, history, and natural environments that make each place unique.
Zimbabwe 2025
Global Scholars Service Trip
Coming in March! Follow their adventure on Instagram! @globaledina
During their Zimbabwe trip, students and Edina Rotarians will engage in meaningful service projects, volunteering at Bulawayo Hospital and Ethandweni Orphanage and constructing classrooms at Chisizya Secondary School. They will also immerse themselves in environmental and cultural learning through rhino tracking and exploring caves with ancient paintings at Matopos National Park, game drives and wild dog research at Hwange National Park, and visiting local communities. The trip will conclude with a visit to the iconic Victoria Falls, blending adventure with hands-on education.
Portugal 2024
Science Marine Conservation
During their Portugal trip, students explored the interconnectedness of conservation and culture. They participated in service projects like dune ecosystem preservation and cigarette butt cleanups, and engaged in activities such as dolphin watching, snorkeling in a marine park, and visiting the Iberian Wolf Recovery Center. They learned about conservation challenges at Monsanto Forest Park and through sessions on pollution and sustainability. Cultural immersion included a Portuguese language class, a market visit, cooking traditional meals, and free time to explore Lisbon, combining education with hands-on environmental and cultural experiences.
Madagascar 2023
Science Conservation Research Expedition
In Madagascar, students experienced both forest and marine ecosystems. During Forest Week, they stayed in forest camps, attended lectures on Madagascar's unique biodiversity, and conducted hands-on research projects such as bird surveys, herpetofauna studies, and lemur route mapping, while engaging with local villagers. During Marine Week on Nosy Be island, students learned SCUBA diving or snorkeling and completed an Indian Ocean Reef Ecology course, contributing to reef 3D modeling and fish community studies, combining conservation science with cultural immersion.
Morocco 2022
Global Scholar Eliza's Capstone Implementation Project
"Science without Borders"
In 2022, Global Scholar Eliza Neumann traveled to Morocco to implement her Capstone project, focusing on supporting STEM education. She raised funds to provide STEM equipment for a local school and collaborated with students and teachers to create a botanical garden for the science department. During her visit, Eliza attended classes, taught lessons, and participated in cultural exchanges and activities, blending education with meaningful community engagement.
Ecuador & Galapagos 2019
Science Conservation Research Expedition
In 2019, students embarked on a two-week conservation research expedition to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands. During the first week in the Amazon Forest, they stayed at the remote Sani Reserve, accessed by boat along the Napo River. They participated in biodiversity research, conducting surveys on birds, mammals, primates, reptiles, and amphibians, and visited the Sani Indian Village to learn about local culture. In the Galápagos, students explored island ecology, observed unique species like tortoises and marine iguanas, and enjoyed scuba diving and snorkeling to study marine life, blending conservation research with cultural and environmental exploration.
Fiji 2018
Science Conservation Research Expedition
In 2018, students traveled to Fiji for a two-week conservation research expedition. During the first week, they explored the Natewa Peninsula’s tropical forests, assisting with biodiversity surveys on birds, butterflies, reptiles, and forest structure while learning about conservation challenges and local customs. In the second week, they shifted focus to marine ecology at Natewa Bay, where they studied coral reefs, observed marine biodiversity, and participated in snorkeling and diving activities. The experience combined hands-on research with cultural immersion and environmental education.
South Africa 2017
Science Conservation Research Expedition
In 2017, students participated in a two-week conservation expedition in South Africa. During the first week, they conducted terrestrial research in a game reserve, studying wildlife behavior, biodiversity, and conservation practices. In the second week, they explored marine ecosystems, engaging in activities like snorkeling or diving to study coral reefs, marine species, and coastal ecology. The program combined immersive research experiences with education on conservation challenges and strategies.