EDUC ATIONAL S EMESTERS IN A GLOBA L C LASSR OOM
M E A N I N G F U L S E RV I C E . R E A L CO N N E C T I O N S . T R U E A DV E N T U R E .
ARCC’S GLOBAL CLASSROOMS:
NEPAL
COSTA RICA INDIA
ECUADOR PERU
UGANDA KENYA
TANZANIA
CUBA
NEW FRONTIERS PATAGONIA
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CONTENTS Why Take a Gap Year?
2
Program Philosophy
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The Four Pillars of ARCC Gap
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Educational Curriculum
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CHINA
THAILAND
VIETNAM
GAP SEMESTERS:
CAMBODIA
Asia
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East Africa
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Himalaya
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Latin America
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Patagonia/Cuba
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Pacific Islands
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The Group: Students
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Featured Students
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The Group: Instructors
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Featured Instructors
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Program Reviews
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Safety
30
College Credit & Financial Aid
31
Semesters At-a-Glance
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How to Apply
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SUMATRA
BALI FIJI
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WHY TAKE A GAP YEAR?
From prominent college admissions directors, to respected educational journals, to high school counselors, experts in higher education are saying that taking a Gap Year has enormous benefits for high school graduates. Described as a modern-day rite of passage, a Gap Year is an opportunity to take advantage of the natural break between high school and college and to unplug from the everyday classroom. It is a chance to reboot and experience a new style of learning; to embark on real work and real-world experience; to gain a better sense of identity, self confidence, and hone in on one’s ability to be a critical thinker. This formative break can ignite a desire for change, awaken a passion for learning, and expose young adults to multiple fields of study and career paths to serve as inspiration in gaining a direction for college and beyond.
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DID YOU KNOW? OF STUDENTS reported that their Gap Year
OF A GAP YEAR
experience “set me on my current
from students surveyed was: “I gained
career path or academic major,
a better sense of who I am as a person
or confirmed my choice of career
and what is important to me.Ӡ
or academic major.Ӡ
Gap Year students have proven
OF GAP YEAR GRADUATES
to be more engaged in
opportunities and extracurricular
report that their Gap Year has significantly added to their employability.*
on college campuses.*
Gap Year students show a clear pattern of maintaining a
Gap Year students are perceived to be more
than would otherwise have been predicted, and the positive effect lasts over all four years.* than non-Gap Year students.*
“I do not believe that a Gap Year is an alternative to college, but more of a supplement and benefit that will significantly increase my independence and preparedness for the years to come.” ALLIE W., ROSS, CA, UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA ’19
† Gap Year data from The Gap Year Advantage, an independent study of 300 Gap Year students between 1997-2006 by Karl Haigler and Rae Nelson * Gap Year Association (n.d), Data & Gap Year Benefits, Retrieved from www.gapyearassociation.org/data-benefits.php
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ARCC GAP PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY ARCC Semesters offer an educational and cultural bridge between high school and college. They are an opportunity to live, work, learn and explore in some of the greatest classrooms on earth. On an ARCC Semester we immerse ourselves into the culture through homestays, service work, teaching and exchange. Working in partnership with area leaders, we pinpoint worthwhile service projects and collaborate with community members to achieve a common goal. As a small community we embark on a journey of discovery of people, places, cultures and ideas, while taking advantage of the opportunity to reach out and experience both life and the world from a different perspective.
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THE FOUR PILLARS OF ARCC GAP SERVICE IMPACT Service is a major component of the ARCC Gap Semester. Service projects are based upon ARCC’s five global themes and offer students an opportunity to give back to the communities in which we stay. ARCC has long-standing relationships with organizations around the world and is committed to finding projects that are impactful, sustainable and locally driven. ARCC’s service projects are supplemented by our educational curriculum via readings and discussions, which serve to provide background and a deeper meaning to the projects.
CULTURAL IMMERSION Exposure to other cultures is one of the most significant opportunities for students during their Gap Year. On an ARCC Gap Semester, not only do we get to experience foreign cultures through daily interactions with partners, locals, or students our age, but we fully immerse ourselves through homestays, village stays, and participating in the daily traditions and local activities. As we immerse ourselves in these cultures and learn about different projects and fledgling organizations, we are given the opportunity to be a part of the process by working alongside community members. Living and volunteering in these communities helps us gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for what these communities and organizations are trying to accomplish.
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LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT ARCC’s Leadership Development Curriculum is designed to foster growth and encourage students to play an active role in the group’s overall experience. Students are encouraged to find their voices and build confidence by undertaking leadership opportunities and increased responsibility throughout the semester. Through student-led lessons, activities and excursions, students are empowered to become effective leaders gaining valuable skills that will carry on for the rest of their lives.
“I thoroughly researched Gap Year programs and ARCC was above and beyond everything else. Doing ethical and meaningful projects was very important to me, and ARCC exceeded my expectations.” ABBY F., NATICK, MA, WILLIAMS COLLEGE ’21
EDUCATION Designed with a rich educational fabric complementing each and every location, ARCC Semesters highlight regional issues that are directly linked to global challenges. On an ARCC Semester we go behind the scenes to meet with local experts, field researchers, scholars and community leaders to research and study these issues and their impact on the communities we visit. Over the course of our travels, we examine five global themes.
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EDUCATIONAL CURRICULUM ARCC Gap semesters explore five global themes, which provide the framework for learning and discussion throughout the semester. LITERACY AND EDUCATION
ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
Compare the philosophy of education in different countries by identifying the challenges, issues and limitations regarding literacy and education in the developing world. Take part in real life solutions and bring change to schools by working with administrators, teachers, and local children.
Investigate issues surrounding habitat degradation and natural resource loss. Explore the fine line between national interest in economic development and conservation efforts for native land and the protection of animals.
MICROFINANCE & ECONOMIC GROWTH PUBLIC HEALTH Go behind the scenes to see the access to health care and its positive and negative effects on rural and urban communities. By shadowing doctors, assisting nurses and interviewing local community members, our students examine the challenges of world health issues both big and small.
Research how communities make ends meet in an increasingly globalized economy, while working to maintain their unique cultures. Meet with communities who have developed co-ops and vocational training schools to expand their skill sets and gain an understanding for the genuine progress happening on the ground.
URBANIZATION AND THE MOVEMENT OF PEOPLES Examine the trends of emigration and urbanization and their effects on food security, economic development and the environmental landscape. Speak with farmers who train younger generations in sustainable agriculture practices and talk to local entrepreneurs in urban regions about the ongoing ingenuity in the workplace which helps to bring economic prosperity to the area.
CAPSTONE PROJECTS
EXAMPLES OF PAST CAPSTONE PROJECTS:
Students draw upon the rich experiences of the three months to examine a self-selected topic from a particular angle. After gathering information through interviews, site visits, immersion and documentation, students culminate their semester with a Capstone Project. They may make a video documenting how attitudes towards public health in Thailand and China lead to disparate health care systems, or present findings comparing the success of conservation efforts in the population of Tanzania’s elephants and Uganda’s rhinos. Students come away from their Semester not only with memories that will last a lifetime, but with skills and experience that will be invaluable in their future educational goals. 8
• Comparing
the Lives & Struggles of Women in Three Latin American Countries
• How
U.S. Consumers Affect Other Cultures: Tracking Product Lifecycles
• A
Glimpse into the Lives of Migrant Workers in China and Vietnam
• Humans
of Southeast Asia—Stories of People Encountered Along the Way
• Education
to Equality: Giving Her a Voice (Speech to the United Nations)
• Analysis
of Aid and Development in India (video and interviews)
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“My semester with ARCC felt like the equivalent of four years in school. I’ve spent all eighteen years of my life doing very few things out of the ordinary, but through my growth in my time with ARCC, I feel braced for any challenge life may throw at me.” TYLER A., PRAIRIE VILLAGE, KS, MISSOURI STATE ’21
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L
eave the traditional classroom far behind as we journey to the heart of China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. The Asia Gap Semester is a unique
blend of education, service and exploration of these intriguing and ancient cultures. Shadow mahouts at a Thai elephant sanctuary and understand the true value of conservation. Meet with village leaders to learn how their community thrives in an increasingly globalized world. Learn about efforts to combat human trafficking, starting with education and income-generating opportunities. Get our hands dirty building bio-sand water filters for rural Cambodian villages. Share laughter with Vietnamese children affected by Agent Orange and feel how service transcends boundaries. Throughout three months abroad, discover the many lessons this fascinating corner of the world can teach us.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS •
Teach English in a Chinese High School While Living in a Homestay
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Watch the Sunset and Sunrise from your Tent on the Great Wall of China
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Install Clean Water Filters in Rural Homes in Cambodia
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Examine the Effects of Agent Orange by Working with Youth at a Village Outside Hanoi
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Become SCUBA Certified on the Gulf of Thailand
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Work Alongside Local Conservationists to Protect Thailand’s Endangered Elephants
PROGRAM DETAILS: CHINA
THAILAND
VIETNAM CAMBODIA
Number of Days: Dates: 90 February 6 – May 6, 2019 September 10 – December 8, 2019 February 1 – April 30, 2020 Start Location: San Francisco
Tuition: $14,000
End Location: San Francisco
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“My perspective broadened every day with all the things I learned on East Africa Gap. The program reignited my academic curiosity and made me genuinely excited to continue to learn in college. Go on East Africa Gap and completely change your life!” ABBY F., NATICK, MA, WILLIAMS COLLEGE ’21
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T
he East Africa Gap Semester explores the majesty, cultures, and challenges of three African nations: Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Take advantage
of our unparalleled access as we gain a unique education on this fascinating expanse of Africa. See the eager, smiling faces in a Masai primary school and teach English in an overcrowded classroom. Tromp through the equatorial rainforest tracking rhinos with wildlife biologists. Meet with leaders from an all-women’s co-op designed to bring personal and financial independence. Witness the migration of millions of animals crossing the savanna of the Masai Mara at sunrise, one of life’s unforgettable moments. Build solar panels hand-in-hand with local villagers, providing electricity to family homes for forty years. Never again will we look at education in quite the same way!
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS •
Work at a Rhino Sanctuary to Assist in Protecting Africa’s Sacred Animal
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Study Education by Living with Students at Kenya’s First Free, All-Female, Secondary School
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Whitewater Raft the Exhilarating Nile River
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Construct and Install Solar Power Systems into Rural Kenyan Homes
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Shadow Nurses in a Masai Health Clinic to Learn Traditional Medicine
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Search for the “Big Five” while on Safari in Masai Mara National Park
PROGRAM DETAILS: Number of Days: Dates: Tuition: 90 September 10 – December 8, 2019 $14,000 Start Location: San Francisco
End Location: San Francisco
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“This semester has made me aware of so many global issues I didn’t know about. The instructors are so passionate about the topics and it encourages you to have more valuable table conversations. Because of this program I feel more motivated to learn.” DANA A., DOYLESTOWN, PA, PITZER ’20
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E
mbark on the journey of a lifetime as we experience the rich cultures, ancient histories, and indefatigable energy of Nepal and India.
Work on a women’s cooperative farm in rural Nepal and learn about the benefits of sustainable agriculture and empowerment through education. Trek along the mystical mountain trails of Annapurna in the Nepali Himalayas. Live amidst the rugged Indian Himalayas as we join an NGO working to reform the Ladakhi education system. Learn about conservation issues firsthand by partnering with two organizations working to conserve the endangered sloth bear and Himalayan snow leopard. Rise early in a Buddhist monastery to shadow monks and learn the great practice of meditation. After living in and exploring two of the world’s most fascinating cultures, leave the semester with broadened perspectives and a new passion for this part of the world.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS •
Shadow Monks during a Buddhist Monastery Stay
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Watch the Sun Rise over the WorldRenowned Taj Mahal
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Partner with Organizations Working to Conserve the Sloth Bear and Snow Leopard
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Work with an NGO that Supports Street Children in the Slums of Delhi
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Trek the Peaks and Valleys of Nepal’s Annapurna Mountain Range
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Learn to Surf on Goa’s Beginner Breaks
PROGRAM DETAILS: NEPAL
INDIA
ARABIAN SEA
Number of Days: Dates: Tuition: 90 September 10 – December 8, 2019 $14,000 Start Location: San Francisco
End Location: San Francisco
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“In 90 days I learned more about myself and the world than I thought I was capable of. I am so much more well-rounded, and my knowledge of the world has blossomed in a way that will remain open forever. It has pushed me to become a better person. This was the best decision I have ever made.” ALLEGRA B., WASHINGTON, DC, SKIDMORE ’19
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A
dventure and education collide during this three-month journey through the lush jungles, dizzying heights and breathtaking coasts of
Costa Rica, Ecuador, the Galapagos and Peru. ARCC’s 20-year history of exploration and service in Latin America opens doors unimagined by the casual traveler. Tuck away in a remote mountain village in Costa Rica and discover the simplicity of “Pura Vida.” Partner with local biologists on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, and witness the impact of human populations on endangered sea turtles. Navigate Ecuador’s Amazon jungle by canoe and explore the effects of petroleum drilling. Swim, snorkel and mingle with prehistoric lava lizards, flamingos, blue-footed boobies, and sea lion pups in the Galapagos Islands. Discover the ancient city of Peru’s Machu Picchu while treading in the footsteps of the Incas. The rich and unforgettable experiences of the Latin America Gap Semester give us unique insight into this fascinating part of the world.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS •
Help Protect Nesting Olive Ridley Sea Turtles Coming Ashore to Lay their Eggs
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Surf the Waves of Costa Rica’s Stunning Pacific Coast
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Learn about Conservation Issues Facing the Galapagos Islands
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Explore the Effects of Petroleum Drilling in the Ecuadorian Amazon
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Walk in the Footsteps of the Incas and Explore the Ancient Ruins of Machu Picchu
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Kayak on the Largest High-Altitude Lake in the World PROGRAM DETAILS:
COSTA RICA GALAPAGOS IS. ECUADOR
Number of Days: Dates: Tuition: 90 September 10 – December 8, 2019 $13,800 Start Location: San Francisco
PERU
End Location: Miami
SOUTH PA C I F I C OCEAN
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“I knew it was amazing in the moment, but almost every day I look back now and it was truly the best three months of my life.” PALMER S., CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, CO, HIGH POINT ’21
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ourney from the jagged spires of Patagonia to the magical and timeworn island of Cuba. Taking advantage of our unparalleled access,
we delve into conservation efforts that include volunteering at one of Chile’s first national parks. Learn about the Gauchos and their fight to protect their traditions and lands and trek through some of Patagonia’s most spectacular terrain. Travel to the Caribbean shores of Cuba and encounter a nation ready to enter the 21st century. View history in the making, refurbish local schools, and teach English to eager students before basking in the crystal clear waters off white sand beaches. Conclude this unique experience in the salsa-filled streets of La Habana. After experiencing two of the world’s most fascinating places, return home with broader perspectives and a new passion to learn.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
CUBA
SOUTH PA C I F I C OCEAN
Work Alongside Conservation Experts in the World-Famous Patagonia National Park
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Teach English to Eager School Children in a Rural Chilean School
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Trek in the Shadows of the Towering Peaks and Glaciers of Torres del Paine
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Deliver Food by Horse and Buggy to Cuba’s Elderly and Shut-In Community
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Experience Havana’s Energy, a City Bursting With Music, Dance and Great Food
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Explore the White Sand Beaches and the Turquoise Waters of Cuba’s Caribbean Shores
PROGRAM DETAILS:
SOUTH AT L A N T I C OCEAN PATAGONIA
•
Number of Days: Dates: 90 February 6 – May 6, 2019 February 1 – April 30, 2020 Start Location: San Francisco
Tuition: $14,500
End Location: Miami
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“Sam has always been a positive person, but the semester provided him a new perspective on the world that gave him a new sense of maturity, calm, strength and self-confidence. He has a greater appreciation for the diversity of the world and was inspired by the many people he met and their resiliency.” PARENT OF SAM W., SAN RAFAEL, CA, BROWN UNIVERSITY ’21
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ourney to the far reaches of the Pacific Ocean where we immerse ourselves in the island lifestyles of Fiji, Sumatra & Bali. Settle into a Fijian
burre where we are welcomed by the local village chief. Gain insight into primary education while delivering lessons to eager Fijian children. Explore health care by visiting nursing stations in one of Fiji’s most remote regions. Become SCUBA certified off Beqa Island. Trek deep into the Sumatran rainforest in search of the critically endangered orangutan. Build water catchment systems in Bali to help villages survive droughtlike conditions between rainy seasons. Study firsthand the East Bali Cashew Company and witness how an impoverished village partnered with a small business to great success. Learn to surf on the waves of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula. Reflecting on the lessons learned, the hands-on experiences, and the friendships forged, we conclude our semester excited to share all that we’ve experienced!
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS •
Teach English in a Fijian Primary School while Living in a Traditional Burre
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Become SCUBA Certified off Fiji’s Beqa Island
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Track Orangutans While Working Alongside a Local NGO in Sumatra
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Build and Install Clean Water Wells for Local Families during a Village Homestay
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Study a Successful Small Business/Village Partnership in Bali
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Surf the Famous Waves of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula
PROGRAM DETAILS: SUMATRA
Number of Days: Dates: Tuition: 90 February 6 – May 6, 2019 $14,500 September 10 – December 8, 2019 February 1 – April 30, 2020 Start Location: San Francisco
BALI
INDIAN OCEAN
FIJI
End Location: San Francisco
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THE GROUP:
STUDENTS ARCC groups are made up of 8 to 12 students, which provides an intimate group environment for travel, service, immersion, and learning. Though the majority of ARCC students are recent high school graduates, our students range in age from 17 to 20 years old. Students on an ARCC Gap Semester are excited to be a part of the Gap experience and are ready to fully engage in all aspects of the program. Our semesters are not recommended for students who are coming out of youth-at-risk or therapeutic programs. Groups are carefully selected to ensure compatibility over the 90-day semester and considerable effort is put into making sure that students are coming for the right reasons. Our application process requires students to complete a detailed application, an interview with a Gap Director, and provide two outside references. This ensures that students on ARCC Gap Programs are there for all the right reasons.
“My advice to any person considering a Gap Year is to DO IT. But not only that, do it with ARCC. I am lucky to say that I have not only grown to have two new mentors, but also thirteen new lifetime friends.” EMILY M., DECATUR, GA, CLARK UNIVERSITY ’21
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FEATURED STUDENT
ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS…
COHASSET, MA | ARCC GAP EAST AFRICA WAKE FOREST ’21
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO TAKE A GAP YEAR?
I decided to take a Gap Year early on in my senior year for many reasons: I wasn’t extremely enthused about the prospect of going to school the next year because I was feeling burnt-out from the past 18 years in school; I have always loved to travel and saw this year as an amazing opportunity to see the world debt-free; and, honestly, I don’t know why everyone wouldn’t want to take a Gap Year! FAVORITE ARCC MEMORY:
My favorite ARCC memories are some of the silly games we played throughout our whole semester. My favorite is called squirrel and when someone shouts out “squirrel” everyone has to get in a position where your feet are off the ground. On our final feast dinner I yelled out squirrel as we were walking to the table and we all perched on chairs and grabbed onto poles. The whole restaurant looked at us like we were crazy. HOW HAS YOUR ARCC EXPERIENCE INSPIRED YOU?
I’m way more excited about attending college and learning than I thought I was going to be. I learned so much on my semester by experiencing and observing and I’m excited to get back into the classroom.
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My advice is to take a Gap Year and do it with ARCC because it will change your life! I was so happy that I chose ARCC especially for my first semester. I think my advice would be to do a program like ARCC in the fall if you choose to take a Gap Year and do something more independent in the spring. I am so happy I had structure and guaranteed friendships in the fall as all of my friends headed into college. Now I am definitely ready to be more independent and next semester I’m going to Spain on my own to walk the Camino de Santiago. I think a huge part of my year will be embracing that independence and figuring things out on my own for the first time. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO TAKE YOUR SEMESTER WITH ARCC?
I went to the gap fair in my area and picked up a ton of packets and talked to a lot of programs. In the end I chose ARCC because they were the most organized and ethical company I talked to. After watching their online webinar, which compared their Gap Programs, I was sold on going to East Africa because I think the projects ARCC does there are incredible and it’s a region of the world that’s hard to travel to on your own. HOW DID YOUR INSTRUCTORS INSPIRE YOU?
My instructors were amazing leaders and friends and I am so lucky to have them as role models and people to talk to in the future. Throughout the semester they initiated conversations that significantly changed my way of thinking. I’m also really inspired by their life paths and they’ve made me question a lot about what I want to do in my post-college years.
FEATURED STUDENT
SAN RAFAEL, CA | ARCC GAP ASIA BROWN UNIVERSITY ’21
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO TAKE A GAP YEAR?
I decided to pursue a Gap Year after a rewarding but grueling high school experience in which I felt limited by my daily routine and the classroom environment. I also felt that I would benefit from a change in scenery and new perspective. In my Gap Year, I wanted to challenge myself to pursue new experiences, relationships and passions, and to take a step back, take a deep breath and do some self-discovery. FAVORITE ARCC MEMORY:
One evening, while exploring a beach in western Cambodia, a few of us in the group waded out under the stars along a sandbar. The water remained only about hip deep for at least a hundred yards, and the moon hung low along the horizon. Looking around us, we saw the water glittering with bioluminescent plankton. Stunned, we shouted back to the rest of the group to come and see. We spent the better part of an hour floating in phosphorescent water under the Cambodian sky. Undoubtedly, that fleeting experience is one I will never forget. HOW HAS YOUR ARCC EXPERIENCE INSPIRED YOU?
My time with ARCC has inspired me in innumerable ways, some of which I’m still discovering as time goes
on. Firstly, I found a good deal of satisfaction in, say, reading an article from ARCC’s Course Reader before traveling to Angkor Wat, knowing that I would soon have the opportunity to supplement my intellectual understanding of the place with a real world experience. Additionally, the people with whom I spent my 90 days opened my eyes to so many new perspectives and opinions, and have ultimately given me a lot of comfort by demonstrating that there are other like-minded individuals who felt drawn to pursue a Gap Year as well. ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS…
I would emphasize that the nerves you likely feel while considering a Gap Semester are as natural as they are constructive: in the context of branching out and seeking new experiences, the butterflies are a sign that you’re doing something right. I would say that it is imperative to lean into discomfort and absorb new situations with an open mind. Never say no when faced with a choice between your comfort zone and a novel, challenging situation. To summarize a quote from my leader, you either have a good time or a good story. HOW MY INSTRUCTORS INSPIRED ME:
Both of my instructors inspired me with their unflagging authenticity and determination to provide us with the best experience possible. Luke, for example, always encouraged self-awareness and curiosity, and somehow managed to always find a quote to perfectly suit the moment. Erin provided a constant source of positivity and enthusiasm, while also keeping us grounded in our experiences. Most of all, I valued the way in which they encouraged us to embody these traits not by verbal suggestion, but by the simple power of modeling the traits themselves.
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THE GROUP:
INSTRUCTORS
EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP ARCC Gap Instructors are exceptional individuals. They average 27 years old and have experience ranging from service with the Peace Corps, to teaching full time in a high school, to a graduate degree in international development, to an extensive resume of leading international programs. All of our instructors have a shared commonality: an enthusiastic character with a love for teaching young adults about global issues. Each semester is led by one male and one female instructor. In addition, we also enlist professional outfitters for our adventure activities such as rafting, surfing, and SCUBA diving. EXTREMELY SELECTIVE HIRING PROCESS ARCC’s outstanding reputation in the industry brings us hundreds of staff applications each year. We take careful steps to ensure we hire instructors with extraordinary character and experience. Many Gap Instructors are selected from our talented summer leader pool. In addition, all instructors pass rigorous background checks in order to work for ARCC. EXTENSIVE TRAINING CURRICULUM Every ARCC instructor has training in emergency wilderness medicine (WFR certified — 80 hours) or an EMT (120 hours). In addition to the multitude of experiences our instructors bring to ARCC, all instructors, new and returning, are required to attend our fifteen-day intensive staff training focusing on program safety, group dynamics, logistics, leadership, communications, protocols, and emergency procedures, making them some of the most well-rounded instructors in the industry.
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FEATURED INSTRUCTORS
PROGRAMS LED: Asia Gap, Patagonia/Cuba Gap, China Custom and Australia/Fiji Summer BS in Film and Television Studies, Boston University
Claire joined ARCC with a passion for experiential education and working with youth. As a former participant on similar semester-based programs, she knows firsthand the power of hands-on learning. Post college, Claire’s passion for education led her to Denver, CO where she served as a tutor and mentor in an underserved public middle school through City Year Americorps. Claire then relocated to Leadville, where she worked more experientially with the High Mountain Institute. On every program, Claire hopes her students learn to think critically and with compassion about the world we live in, while experiencing a love for cross-cultural connection. Claire has a deep passion for the outdoors, and can often be found gallivanting through the Rocky Mountains or singing karaoke.
“The instructors took care of every detail, provided guidance, but allowed for just the right amount of independence too. They were outstanding role models and extremely gifted at team building. Top notch leaders.” PARENTS OF GRACE L., PACIFIC PALISADES, CA, MIDDLEBURY ’19
PROGRAMS LED: Latin America, Patagonia/Cuba and East Africa Gap, and Costa Rica, Hawaii, and China Summer MS in Political Science, Grand Valley State University
Eric brings to ARCC a deep passion for education. After teaching biology, history, government and geopolitics to high school students in New Mexico for four years, he moved to Ecuador where he spent a year in the classroom teaching English. Realizing his true passion lay in opening his students’ eyes to the beauty and complexity of the world around them, Eric sees ARCC as an avenue to merge his passions for education and global issues. As an instructor, Eric hopes his students gain an understanding of how intricately connected the world is, and hopes his students play a role in positively influencing the global narrative. When not working for ARCC you can find Eric exploring some corner of the world with a backpack full of books and a thermos full of coffee.
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PROGRAM REVIEWS
“Choosing ARCC Gap has been one of the
“The overall level of communication with
best choices of my life. I’ve been able to see
the parents, and the level of detail, before
and experience countless incredible things
and during the semester was incredible. It
I would have missed otherwise, make life-
made us feel prepared, and gave us a high
long friendships within my group, and I’ve
level of confidence in ARCC and its staff—
become a more globally aware individual.”
and that our son was in good hands.”
CAMERON D., HIGHLANDS RANCH, CO,
PARENT OF DANIEL H., LAKE FOREST, IL,
UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING ’19
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO ’22
“ARCC Gap has changed my life. It is the best thing I could have done for myself and has fueled my love for travel, service, and adventure. I have experienced exploring in a whole new way and I can’t wait to continue living with the newfound perspective I’ve gained from partaking in my ARCC semesters.” CAMILLE S., TAMPA, FL, COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON ’21
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“It is clear to us that you have given the program so much thought — the kids are so obviously both learning and enjoying themselves, meeting fantastic new people and acquiring great skills. I am so pleased that Franny has had this experience!!” PARENT OF FRANNY E., NORTHAMPTON, MA, MOUNT HOLYOKE ’20
“Truly an exhilarating experience, and honestly the best time of my life.” KEVIN J., VIENNA, VA, COLLEGE OF WILLIAM AND MARY ’22 “Annie has never been happier. She has really hit a new stride on this semester and loved everything so much.” PARENT OF ANNIE W., CHATTANOOGA, TN, ELON ’21
“Learning about global issues in a classroom is nothing in comparison to actually experiencing them. Throughout this semester, I have found myself awestruck by seeing the lack of education for children and adults, the lack of accountability the US has taken for the use of Agent Orange, and the endless disadvantages women face in the world. Being here has added emotion and purpose to learning, and I cannot imagine starting my college life any other way.” TEDDY F., HERMOSA BEACH, CA, BOSTON UNIVERSITY ’19
“If you are considering a Gap Year, take
“Thank you, thank you, thank you for
one. If a Gap Year has never crossed your
arranging such an amazing program.
mind, take one. It’s the best decision
A true lifetime experience!”
I’ve ever made.” MAIREAD K., MILWAUKEE, WI,
PARENT OF MACKENZIE B., HOLLIS, NH, GEORGE WASHINGTON ’21
DENISON UNIVERSITY ’19 “Loved the program—it is transformative for these young adults and gives them strength within a very competitive world.” PARENT OF ANDREA S., WASHINGTON, DC, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY ’21
415.332.5075
ARCCGAP.COM
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SAFETY ARCC’s safety record is impeccable and simply unmatched. Considering we have had many tens of thousands of students participate in our programs, we are extremely proud that our commitment to safety has produced such enviable results. Some very important reasons for this extraordinary safety record are: WELL-PLANNED PROGRAMS, LEAVING LITTLE TO CHANCE Almost every minute of every day of our programs is planned in advance. Activities, meals, service projects, transportation, etc. are organized by our experienced office staff up to a year in advance of the departure date of any program. This way, we are able to arm our instructors with an extremely well planned and detailed itinerary, which allows them to better focus on the well-being of their students, which in turn leads to safer programs. ALL ARCC INSTRUCTORS HAVE AT LEAST 80 HOURS OF FIRST AID TRAINING Prior to leading programs for ARCC Gap, all instructors are required to go through an 80 hour/10 day intensive Wilderness First Responder first aid course (WFR) as well as an additional 16 days of staff training and semester preparation. While these first aid skills are rarely used for more than scrapes, bruises and blisters, we’ve found that this level of medical training ensures that our instructors are proactive in any environment. By being proactive, we can generally avoid most potentially dangerous situations, which is reflected by our impeccable safety record. WE HIRE SMART, EXPERIENCED, AND MATURE INSTRUCTORS A typical instructor is 27 years old and has considerable program leading experience as well as background working with teenagers. We hire instructors who make intelligent decisions on behalf of our students and our organization. This maturity and experience is critical to operating a safe and successful program. ARCC believes strongly in being proactive about the safety of our students which is why we have a philosophy of “Safety First” in whatever we do. Whether designing our program itineraries, hiring our staff, choosing our locations, selecting outfitters, or developing protocols, our first consideration is always for the safety of our students and our unblemished safety record suggests we are doing things right.
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FINANCIAL AID Choosing to do a Gap Semester is a big decision and we’re glad you’re considering ARCC! The semester you take with us is no doubt going to be a life changing one full of new cultures, friends, experiences and accomplishments. As you prepare, something we don’t want you to be discouraged by is the price tag that accompanies a Gap Semester. It’s going to take some hard work, persistence and creative thinking, but you can raise the funds you need to take what will undoubtedly be the best semester or year of your life. Typically students fund their Gap Semesters through a mixture of working, fundraising and asking for scholarships. We find that students who contribute financially to their Gap Year experience are some of our most successful students, taking ownership and bringing a commitment to make their Gap experience the best it can be. ARCC Gap offers need-based financial scholarships. Each year ARCC gives approximately $75,000 in financial aid to qualified students with need. Please contact us for more information on our financial aid program. Please know that aid is awarded based on need, program availability, and overall aid available.
PURSUING ACADEMIC CREDIT ARCC Gap students have the option to earn up to 20-quarter hours of college credit through the Northwestern Association of Schools and Colleges. These credits are widely accepted throughout the country at both public universities and private institutions. Please call the ARCC office at 415-332-5075 to learn more. 415.332.5075
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GAP SEMESTER PROGRAMS TUITION* LENGTH
START/END LOCATION
DATES
GRADES
$14,000
San Francisco
February 6 – May 6, 2019
High School Graduates
90 days
September 10 – December 8, 2019 February 1 – April 30, 2020
$14,000
90 days
San Francisco
September 10 – December 8, 2019
High School Graduates
$14,000
90 days
San Francisco
September 10 – December 8, 2019
High School Graduates
$13,800
90 days
San Francisco/ September 10 – December 8, 2019 Miami
High School Graduates
$14,500
90 days
San Francisco/ February 6 – May 6, 2019 Miami February 1 – April 30, 2020
High School Graduates
$14,500
90 days
San Francisco
High School Graduates
February 6 – May 6, 2019 September 10 – December 8, 2019 February 1, 2020 – April 30, 2020
*Airfare for international group flights additional
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READY FOR ARCC GAP?
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST Visit arccgap.com and click on “Enroll Now.” Applications are processed on a first come, first served basis. Programs do fill, so we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
CONFIRM YOUR SPACE WITH A DEPOSIT Once we receive your application, we will contact you to confirm space is available and take a deposit. An $800 deposit is required to secure your space and is applied to the full tuition of the program.
SUBMIT THE DETAILED APPLICATION AND TWO REFERENCES After you’ve completed steps 1 and 2 you will be given access to ARCC’s Detailed Gap Application. Included in this detailed application are a series of short answer questions, as well as two reference forms, one based on character, the other on academics.
INTERVIEW WITH A GAP DIRECTOR Upon submission of your application and references, a Gap Director will contact you to set up an interview. This Admissions Interview will be done either in person or via Skype.
FINAL DECISION Within two weeks of your interview an ARCC Gap Director will notify you of final acceptance.
ARCC’S EXPECTATIONS: While there is no experience necessary to participate in an ARCC program, there are some critical attributes that we expect of all ARCC participants. We expect students to maintain high standards of personal behavior. A successful ARCC program requires participants to have a positive and unselfish attitude on the program as well as an open mind and flexibility. ARCC programs are ‘hard work-hard play.’ We hope everyone will actively commit to all the program’s activities, as teamwork is often required for the experience to be successful. ARCC does not tolerate the possession or use of illegal drugs or alcohol. Any students found possessing or engaging
in one of these activities will be sent home immediately at their own expense and without refund. We take great pride in creating the best possible program itineraries. The descriptions of the programs provided in this catalog and on our website represent our plans as we make them. However certain aspects of the program or itinerary may not happen exactly as described. Service projects can change based on the needs of the communities, schools, non-profits, NGOs and other organizations. To get the most out of an ARCC experience, participants need to be flexible and open to changes.
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19800 VILLAGE OFFICE CT. SUITE 200 BEND, OR 97702
ARCCGAP.COM 415.332.5075
Front Cover Photo: Kevin Floerke