International Studies Academy
Exploring Cultures of the World
This course is designed for students who are passionate about world cultures and languages who need help in taking those first steps towards working internationally or studying abroad. Students will acquire 84 skills considered essential to working and studying internationally, with specific attention given to intercultural communication, international language exploration, project management and collaboration, professionalism, technology, and research.
Students will then apply those skills through our student-run cultural consulting firm, Global Prep Squad (GPS). GPS works with international partners on six continents providing professionally-implemented international business tools and solutions which help guide our business clients through the challenges of working within a global context. As a student-run business, GPS has an extensive Corporate Social Responsibility commitment requiring students to work on multiple service projects utilizing international virtual teams based throughout the world. A Rotary Interact club is embedded into the class which helps to facilitate these international projects. Students will also participate in Model United Nations by writing position papers and studying the political/social/economic environments of individual countries.
Students should be comfortable using technology, presenting in front of groups, and understand the expectations of professionalism. Students will work extensively in teams both locally and globally. Student grades are determined through a unique system that allows motivated students the flexibility needed in order to personalize their experience. Students in this program are expected to think for themselves, be able to initiate and manage multiple projects on their own, and are expected to display the utmost professional behavior at all times. Students will leave this program with an extensive Personal International Network of valuable global connections that will provide the path forward for them to realize their dream of working internationally.
Students will need to make arrangements for transportation to off-site presentations, optional internships, and rides home from STA on predetermined dates. Please speak with the administration if you have any transportation concerns.
Applications for the 2024-2025 school year are now open!!
“SISA is the starting block for a global career. The course prepares students for interactions with people from diverse cultures which is essential international business.” Mr. Falk, European Aeronautic Defense and Space, Paris France
"I was very impressed with the team this week. They were well prepared, asked good questions and followed a good process for setting project goals and timelines. They each seemed to have a good understanding of my objectives and clarified that understanding during our conversation. " Ms. Burnham, National Sr.Mgr,Best Practices, Canon Business Process Services, Inc
"By attending SISA, I gained the skills needed to become successful in my future work. I was able to gather skills which then helped me attain an internship at Global Ties Greater Kansas City, which will soon lead to a paid position. By applying myself during class, I was able to stretch my limits, become more confident, and have hands on experience in the workplace. These are the skills my employer looks for in their employees to ensure they have a efficient work environment. I would not be an intern if it were not for SISA." Sarah, SISA Alumni and Former Intern at Global Ties, Kansas City
Tiffany's Story
Global Prep Squad
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Prerequisites:
- Grade: 11 or 12
- Level II Language Course (enrolled or completed)
- 2.5 GPA (Unweighted)
- 90% Attendance
- Student must provide their own transporation to off-site presentations and internships at community locations.
- Outside class Internet access is required.
Recommended:
- Computer Applications
- Business
- Economics World History
High School Credits: 3 units
LSR7 Weighted Credit: .666
NON Lee’s Summit Schools Weighted Credit: Varies by school
*Upon successful completion of SISA, the requirements will be met for LSR7 Modern Global Issues graduation requirement. If a student drops out of SISA, he or she must take Modern Global Issues.
College Dual Credit: UCM POLS2535 Model United Nations (3 hrs credit for eligible students)
Applications for the 2024-2025 school year are now open!!
