The Illinois Global Scholar is a state-level certificate program for high school students. More than just another accolade for high achieving students, the certificate provides all students a personalized education experience that focuses on individual interest, authentic problem solving, research, and communication. This session focuses on how this unique certificate programs offers students opportunity to deeply understand issues in their cultural context while developing critical skills for college and career. Students who participate in the Illinois Global Scholar Certificate program have a rare opportunity to investigate issues and cultures that are not typically represented in the curriculum. Students participating in the program have written policy, worked for NGOs, earned state and national recognition, and earned scholarships. Regardless of whether the certificate is adopted in your school, this is transformative model of teaching and learning is one you shouldn't miss.