At CAS Trips, we believe transformative travel experiences should be accessible to all students, regardless of their economic circumstances. Travel broadens horizons, fosters empathy, and nurtures global citizenship. Yet, for many students, financial constraints can make such opportunities seem out of reach. That is why we are proud to offer the Ross Duran Scholarship, designed to ensure that students from disadvantaged backgrounds can participate in our impactful global learning experiences.
Why Accessibility Matters
Beyond visiting new places, travel is about discovering new perspectives. By engaging with different cultures and global issues, students develop critical thinking, adaptability, and a sense of interconnectedness. These qualities are especially important in a world that increasingly demands innovative problem-solvers and empathetic leaders. Unfortunately, systemic inequalities often limit access to these enriching experiences, leaving many capable and driven students without the chance to fully realize their potential.
CAS Trips is working to create new ways to bridge this gap. We are committed to fostering equity in education by making our resources and trips available to students who might otherwise miss out. From offering free educational resources to launching targeted initiatives like the Ross Duran Scholarship, we are continuously working to create opportunities for all.
The Ross Duran Scholarship
Named in honor of Ross Duran, a lifelong educator and advocate for global citizenship, this scholarship embodies his commitment to fostering international mindedness. Ross was instrumental in founding the IB World Student Conferences, which have inspired countless students to engage with pressing global challenges. In recognition of Ross’s long-time and ongoing support of CAS Trips, the scholarship builds on his legacy by enabling students to attend one of our Global Student Exchanges.
These exchanges are immersive experiences where students from diverse backgrounds collaborate on Service projects, explore creative expression, and engage with curated activities emphasizing global citizenship. For scholarship recipients, this is not only a chance to travel but also an opportunity to become part of a global community dedicated to making a difference.
The application process
The Ross Duran Scholarship is open to students who demonstrate financial need and a strong commitment to the values of global citizenship. The application process is designed to identify students who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and beyond. Here’s how it works:
- Teacher References: Students must provide two teacher references, ensuring they have the support and endorsement of educators who understand their potential.
- Written Submission: Applicants submit an essay (up to 1,000 words) addressing how the concept of “Think Global, Act Local” can tackle pressing global challenges. This task encourages critical thinking and reflection on real-world issues.
- Video Component: Students create a 3-minute video explaining how the travel opportunity could impact them and their community. Creativity, cultural awareness, and personal flair are key components of this submission.
- Interest Summary: In a brief 150-word summary, applicants explain why they are applying, including their financial need.
- Submission: Once all components are complete, students submit their applications for review.
This multi-step process ensures that scholarship recipients are academically and creatively prepared and deeply motivated to make the most of their experience.
Transformative Potential: The Impact on Students
What makes the Ross Duran Scholarship unique is its ability to create lasting change—not only for the recipients but also for their communities. By enabling students to engage with global issues firsthand, the scholarship inspires them to bring back new ideas and perspectives that can be applied locally.
For many students, participating in a Global Student Exchange is life-changing. These trips allow them to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and expand their horizons. They return home with renewed purpose and a deeper understanding of their role as global citizens.
In the words of this year’s Prague Spring scholarship winner, “While the Prague Global Exchange trip presents an incredible opportunity for learning and growth, the reality is that it comes with significant financial challenges, and I would not be able to attend if I’m not granted the Ross Duran scholarship. As much as I’m committed to expanding my global perspective, my parents’ current financial situation makes it difficult to fund such a transformative experience on my own. This scholarship would not just be a welcome assistance—it would decide whether I can participate in this life-changing program.”
Free Resources to Support All Students
In addition to the Ross Duran Scholarship, CAS Trips provides a wealth of free resources to ensure that students and educators everywhere can benefit from our educational philosophy. These include:
- Interactive worksheets and lesson plans: Designed to align with CAS principles, these resources empower students to think critically about global issues and plan meaningful projects.
- Webinars and workshops: These sessions offer guidance for educators and students on maximizing the impact of CAS projects and activities.
- Global challenges framework: This free resource is part of the UN’s Tourism4SDG initiative, showcasing the CAS Project Challenge as an innovative methodology for inspiring change beyond individual trips. By integrating sustainability into travel, the framework encourages other tourism businesses to adopt similar practices, fostering broader impact and transformative action.
These resources help educators and students alike by breaking down complex global issues into manageable, actionable steps. They also ensure that even those who can’t join our trips can still engage with our mission of global citizenship and impactful service.
Building Bridges Across Communities
By supporting disadvantaged students, CAS Trips not only opens doors for individuals but also enriches the collective experience of all participants. When students from diverse economic and cultural backgrounds come together, they learn to appreciate different perspectives, collaborate effectively, and build a more inclusive future. These exchanges become microcosms of the global society we strive to create: interconnected, empathetic, and solution-focused.
Moreover, the ripple effects of such experiences extend far beyond the individual. Communities benefit when students return with fresh insights, a commitment to service, and a passion for creating positive change. As Prague Spring scholarship winner Aliza eloquently shared:
“I am applying for the scholarship to be able to attend the life-changing event that Prague Spring represents. Through this, I would have the chance to make connections, share, and understand the world from different angles and become an agent of change.”
She went on to reflect on the enduring relevance of local action in addressing global challenges:
“The tagline ‘Think Global, Act Local’ embodies a fundamental idea that says local solutions can be used to address global issues… Though it might appear that local groups and individuals are unable to stop global warming, the ‘Think Global, Act Local’ philosophy argues otherwise.”
How You Can Get Involved
The Ross Duran Scholarship wouldn’t be possible without the support of educators, parents, and community members who recognize the importance of creating equitable opportunities for students. Here’s how you can help:
- Nominate a Student: Teachers and mentors play a crucial role in encouraging deserving students to apply.
- Spread the Word: Share information about the scholarship and CAS Trips’ resources with your networks.
- Partner with Us: Schools and organizations can collaborate with CAS Trips to expand access to global learning opportunities.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Whether you are a teacher looking to nominate a deserving student, a parent seeking opportunities for your child, or a student ready to apply, we invite you to join us on this journey. Together, we can ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of transformative travel and learning experiences.
For more information about the Ross Duran Scholarship and other initiatives, explore our Student Challenges or contact our team directly. Let’s work together to empower the next generation of global citizens.
Please note the following application deadlines:
Peru Discovery 2025 – submitted no later than 15 January 2025
Lisbon Adventure 2025 – submitted no later than 15 April 2025
Prague Spring 2026 – submitted no later than 15 October 2025
