There are few places in the world where golf’s history feels as present as it does in St Andrews, Scotland. Every summer, a select group of Youth on Course scholars gets the opportunity to travel across the world to the birthplace of golf. Hosted in partnership with New Links St Andrews and made possible through three families’ generous support of Youth on Course the annual trip brings young golfers together for a week of education, culture, connection and unforgettable experiences at the Home of Golf.
This summer, four Youth on Course scholars, Samuel West, Nerissa Griffith, Shmily Sun and Isabel Helgemo, traveled to St Andrews with Head of Impact Michael Lowe for an unforgettable experience rooted in golf, culture and connection.
As Michael explains: “When it comes to golf, traveling to St Andrews is a rite of passage. The game was first played there in the early 1400s, and walking those fairways connects us to history, to the earth, and to each other in wondrous ways.”
From the historic streets of the town to the fairways of the Old Course, our scholars had the opportunity to experience the traditions and immerse themselves in a community where golf is woven into everyday life. But perhaps most meaningful was the opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds who shared the same love for golf.
As Oregon State Honors College freshman Nerissa put it:
“One of the most memorable parts of the trip was meeting so many new people and making connections with other golfers who share the same love for the sport. It was really cool getting to spend time with people from different places and experience St Andrews together.”
The trip also gave the scholars an opportunity to experience golf in ways that extended beyond competition. They played some of Scotland’s most memorable courses, including Kingsbarns and Elie Golf Club, taking in dramatic coastal views and experiencing the game in a completely different environment.
For University of Pennsylvania freshman Samuel, playing Kingsbarns was a particular highlight. The experience helped him see another side of the sport, one centered not around competition, but simply around enjoying the game and the places it can take you.
“The views along the coast were beautiful and it really helped me learn how fun golf can be recreationally outside of competition.”
The experience also expanded Samuel’s perspective on what a future in golf could look like. Visiting the R&A facility opened his eyes to career opportunities within the industry beyond becoming a professional golfer, showing him that there are countless ways to build a future around the game.
That discovery is part of what made the trip so impactful: the scholars weren’t simply learning about the history of golf. They were beginning to imagine their own place within its future.
The timing of the trip made the experience especially meaningful. As they head off to college and begin a new chapter, traveling to Scotland gave them an opportunity to step outside what was familiar, experience a new culture and build confidence in unfamiliar environments.
For Cal State Los Angeles freshman Isabel, the trip brought together two things she loves: golf and travel, while giving her an experience she never imagined she would have before heading to college.
“More than just a golf trip, it gave me the chance to step outside of my comfort zone, experience a new country, and create memories that I will carry with me into college and beyond. As I begin this next chapter of my life, I am especially grateful that I got to have an experience like this before starting college.”
The experience offered them more than memories to take with them. It helped them develop the independence, curiosity and confidence that will serve them as they enter college and navigate what comes next.
For University of Nevada, Las Vegas freshman Shmily, the opportunity was made possible through the generosity of Youth on Course supporters. She reflected on the experience through a simple but powerful metaphor:
“Trees grow from seeds planted years ago. I’m very grateful for this opportunity that is possible because of your support. I hope to give back to the community as much as you have. Thank you.”
From the historic streets of St Andrews to the coastal fairways of Scotland, this summer’s journey gave four Youth on Course scholars an experience they’ll carry with them into their next chapter. They returned home with new connections, broader perspectives and a deeper understanding of where golf can take them.
That’s the power of access. That’s the power of Youth on Course.