ARCC Gap Programs

EDUC ATI O N A L S EMESTERS IN A G LOBA 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 PROGRAMS Since 1983, ARCC Programs has offered life-changing experiences for thousands of young adults. ARCC operates educational programs on six continents and thrives as the industry leader of service learning and educational travel.

ARCC GAP SEMESTERS ARCC Gap semester programs 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. Designed with a rich academic fabric complementing each and every location, they highlight regional issues that are directly linked to global challenges.

On an ARCC Gap 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.

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. An ARCC Gap semester is life changing. It is an opportunity to reach out and experience both life and the world from a different perspective.

As a small community we embark on a journey of discovery of people, places, cultures and ideas. Over the course of our travels, we examine five essential themes:

•

Literacy & Education

•

Public Health

•

Urbanization and the

Movement of Peoples •

Environment and

Conservation •

Microfinance and

Economic Growth

ARCC offers Gap Semesters in Africa, Asia, India and Latin America. Each program is an academic semester (3 months) in a small group setting with a defined curriculum and leadership development component. College credit is available.

“ARCC has changed me in ways unimaginable and has made me mature in almost every aspect of my life.”

CONNOR L., LATIN AMERICA GAP STUDENT PARMA, OH

“I didn’t realize how much I love to learn until I came here, now I am excited to go back and start college.”

JESSIE H., AFRICA GAP STUDENT EL DORADO HILLS, CA

G

ap Africa explores the majesty, cultures and challenges of three East African nations: Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. We take advantage of our unparalleled access and gain a unique

education in this fascinating expanse of Africa. Seeing the eager smiling faces in a Masai primary school while teaching English in an overcrowded classroom with limited school supplies, we feel the scarcity of education. Tromping through the equatorial rainforest tracking Rhinos with wildlife biologists we witness conservation first-hand. Sitting down to interview farmers from a community teaching farm that strives to bring personal and financial independence, we see a solution.

Building a soccer field hand in hand with local players, converting an old dirt lot into a community centerpiece, we feel the power of service.

Witnessing a family of elephants trek through the savanna of the Masai Mara at sunrise, we experience one of life’s unforgettable moments.

Never again will we look at education in quite the same way.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: • Work

at a Rhino Sanctuary and Witness the Efforts in Place to Protect Africa’s Sacred Animals

• Shadow

Nurses in a Maasai Health Clinic to Compare Traditional versus Contemporary Medicine

• Study

Education by Living with Students at East Africa’s First Free All-Female Secondary School

• Search

for the Big Five: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhinoceros and Water Buffalo in Masai Mara National Park

• Research

Pristine Island Habitats and Partner with the Department of Forestry in Zanzibar

• Volunteer

at a Teaching Farm in Uganda that Educates Locals on Sustainable Farming Methods

• Construct

and Install Solar Power Systems into Rural Tanzanian Homes

AFRICA GAP SEMESTER PROGRAM DETAILS: NUMBER OF DAYS: 90

DATES: September 15 – December 13

START LOCATION: San Francisco (SFO)

END LOCATION: San Francisco (SFO)

*Group Airfare Additional

TUITION: $13,500*

“This semester has been amazing for my son and I can’t say enough about the excellent planning, program, leadership opportunities, instructors and creative service projects!”

PARENT OF AMI S., ASIA GAP STUDENT CHEVY CHASE, MD

L

eave the traditional classroom behind as we journey into the heart of China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. Asia Gap is a unique blend of education, service and exploration of these

intriguing and ancient cultures. Our exclusive access to people and places gives us a window into aspects of China and Southeast Asia rarely experienced by outsiders. We partner with local mahouts and biologists at a Thai elephant conservation center to understand the true value of conservation as we care for and rehabilitate Thailand’s indigenous elephants. Standing knee-deep in rice paddies, we discover a way of life that has remained virtually unchanged throughout the centuries. We meet with village leaders to learn how their community thrives in an increasingly globalized world. Settling into village life in Cambodia, we learn about efforts to combat human trafficking, starting with education and income generating opportunities. Being a part of the change we get our hands dirty building bio-sand water filters for rural villages and facilitate computer classes for over 200 students.

Together, we discover the many lessons this fascinating corner of the world can teach us.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: • Teach

English in an Urban High School While Living in a Homestay

• Partner

• Watch

• Explore

the Sunset and Sunrise from your Tent on the Great Wall of China

with an NGO in Cambodia to Combat Human Trafficking the Breathtaking Thai Islands while Earning your PADI SCUBA Certification

• Care

for and Rehabilitate Elephants at an Animal Conservation Center

• Impact

Lives while Installing Clean Water Filters in Cambodian Homes

• Work

with Youth and Veterans Affected by Agent Orange in Vietnam

• Sleep

aboard a Junk in the Majestic Emerald Waters of Halong Bay

ASIA GAP SEMESTER PROGRAM DETAILS: NUMBER OF DAYS: 90

DATES: September 15 – December 13

START LOCATION: San Francisco (SFO)

END LOCATION: San Francisco (SFO)

*Group Airfare Additional

TUITION: $13,500*

“Taking a gap year with ARCC and getting a chance to work hands-on with the community gave me a sense of hope and made me feel like I was actually doing something to help.”

MORGAN Y., GAP STUDENT DEDHAM, MA

E

mbark on the journey of a lifetime as we experience the rich cultures, numerous religions, ancient histories, and indefatigable energy of India and Nepal. Venturing to a region rarely touched

by outsiders, we set our base for three weeks amidst the Indian Himalayas, joining forces with an NGO working to reform the Ladakhi education system. Welcomed into a homestay, we experience a day in the life of a rural Indian in the 21st century. Trekking through the mystical mountain trails of Annapurna, we test our endurance inspired by the glacial peaks of the Nepali Himalayas. Partnering with an organization providing health care and resources to migrant workers, we study urbanization and public health issues facing a Kathmandu slum.

Rising early from our Ashram for morning yoga, we spend our days leading classes on nutrition and facilitating English conversation with eager Indian children. Building clean water filters and sanitary systems in a rural Nepali village, we see the immediate effects of our hard work and know that our efforts will have a lasting impact. After living in and exploring two of the world’s most fascinating countries, we leave our semester with broader perspectives and a new excitement to learn.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: • Build

and Install Life-Changing Clean Water Systems in rural Nepal

• White

• Work

• Trek

with an NGO that Supports Street Children in the Slums of Kathmandu

Water Raft the Headwaters of the Holy Ganges River the Peaks and Valleys of the Nepal’s Annapurna Mountain Range

• Watch

the Sun Rise over the World-Renowned Taj Mahal

• Settle

into Daily Life in a Homestay in India’s Mountainous Ladakh Province

• Study

Sustainable Farming in Rural India

INDIA/NEPAL GAP SEMESTER PROGRAM DETAILS: NUMBER OF DAYS: 90

DATES: September 15 – December 13

START LOCATION: San Francisco (SFO)

END LOCATION: San Francisco (SFO)

*Group Airfare Additional

TUITION: $13,500*

“This trip opened my eyes to the numerous possibilities in my future.”

BROWNING W., GAP STUDENT CHAPEL HILL, NC

A

dventure and education collide during our three-month journey through the lush jungles, dizzying heights and breathtaking coasts of Costa Rica, Ecuador and Peru. ARCC’s 20

year history of exploration and service in Latin America opens doors unimagined by the casual traveler. Tucked away in a remote mountain village in Costa Rica, we discover the simplicity of “pura vida” working alongside our generous hosts to improve the village’s infrastructure.

Partnering with local biologists on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, we witness the impact of human populations on the natural world. Navigating Ecuador’s Amazon jungle by canoe and partnering with an NGO to study the effects of gold mining, we learn about a movement for environmental preservation. Treading in the footsteps of the Incas, we gain insight into an enduring culture as we explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru. The abundance of life around us underscores the rich and unforgettable experiences of Latin America Gap.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: • Build

Clean Stoves for Quechua Families in Peru’s Sacred Valley

• Help

• Raft

• Walk

the Famous Waters of Jatunyacu River in Ecuador

• Discover

the True Meaning of “Pura Vida” Working and Living on a Rural Costa Rican Ranch

Protect Leatherback Turtles and Surf Costa Rica’s Waves in the Footsteps of the Incas and Explore the Ancient Ruins of Machu Picchu

• Partner

with Community Leaders to Explore the Effects of Gold Mining in the Amazon

• Facilitate

Nutrition Education to Communities on the Shores of Lake Titicaca

• Delve

into Latin American Culture and Language during a Homestay in Costa Rica’s Cloudforest

LATIN AMERICA GAP SEMESTER PROGRAM DETAILS: NUMBER OF DAYS: 90

DATES: September 15 – December 13

START LOCATION: San Francisco (SFO)

END LOCATION: San Francisco (SFO)

*Group Airfare Additional

TUITION: $13,500*

TRISTAN NURSE ARCC AFRICA GAP PORTLAND, OREGON GONZAGA UNIVERSITY

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO TAKE A GAP YEAR?

There are multiple reasons I chose to take a gap year. First of all I graduated young and had no idea of what I wanted to do and if I was even ready for college. I wanted more experience under my belt before continuing my education. Secondly, I’ve always wanted to experience how most of the world lives in contrast with my own little bubble of the U.S.. Going to Africa had always been a dream of mine so, ARCC Gap Africa was a perfect choice for me.

with 35 Maasai people easily made it my most memorable Thanksgiving ever!

HOW HAS YOUR ARCC EXPERIENCE INSPIRED YOU?

ARCC has inspired me to be a better person. It is a cheesy response, but after taking this trip I’m seeing the world with a whole new perspective. I’m also viewing my life with a new perspective and it is making me want to be a better student, help in society, and be a more well-rounded and accommodating person.

FAVORITE ARCC GAP DAY?

My favorite ARCC day was probably Thanksgiving.

We bonded together over killing our own turkey and waking up early the day before to do all the shopping and prep. On Thanksgiving we all cooked our feast together. The best part of the day was being able to share our American custom with the Maasai people in our community. Killing what we ate, cooking as a family, and sharing our tradition

YOUR ARCC INSTRUCTORS...

...inspired me like no one has ever inspired me.

When it came to learning, both of my instructors pushed me to the maximum of my ability, which has changed me for the better. I couldn’t have done the trip without them. Shoutout to Anna and Lee!

BRETT CLARK ARCC LATIN AMERICA GAP SOUTH HAMILTON, MA HARVARD UNIVERSITY

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO TAKE A GAP YEAR?

When I was accepted to Harvard I was asked to take a gap year. But I saw it as an awesome opportunity to experience something new and different.

FAVORITE ARCC GAP DAY?

ALLIE WILLIAMS ARCC ASIA GAP SAN FRANCISCO, CA UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO TAKE A GAP YEAR?

Considering that one of the main focuses of a college education is to prepare students for the large world that awaits them, what better way to begin that education than to venture out into the world itself? I do not believe that a gap year is an alternative to college, but more of a supplement and benefit that has significantly increased my independence and preparedness for the years to come.

My favorite day was spent with my host family in the Amazon. My family took me on a hike through the rainforest and taught me all about the plants and wildlife. Afterwards I worked with them on their farm, learned how to fish using their nets, and my host father showed me how to pan for gold. Later I joined my group and we played our host families in a game of barefoot soccer, which was a great time! I then took a boat back across the river to my house and had the chance to go swimming with

FAVORITE ARCC GAP MEMORY?

During our time in Cambodia, the group spent one week working at a local primary school. At the end of each day, we would head out to the dirt courtyard to play soccer with some of the schoolboys. On the final day, it began to pour but we continued to play the game. Soon, every single person was soaked as we slipped and slid through the muddy and puddle-filled pitch. There is no other way to describe this memory other than one of pure happiness.

HOW HAS YOUR ARCC EXPERIENCE INSPIRED YOU?

I have learned of the great value in pursuing something that you are truly passionate about.

From seeing the world for three months, I learned that even though I am a single individual operating as one of seven billion other individuals, my actions certainly have an effect on many other people around the world.

ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS?

Flexibility is key. In Asia, not everything happens on time, and sometimes unexpected things happen, and that is just another part of the experience!

the local kids. After dinner I discussed culture and lifestyle with my host parents and played with their pet monkey before going to bed.

HOW HAS YOUR ARCC EXPERIENCE INSPIRED YOU?

It has helped me figure out my passions and what I want to do with my life. The curriculum focuses on a variety of topics including public health, education, economics, environmental conservation, urbanization and the movement of people. During the semester I witnessed the depletion of many natural resources and the destruction of habitats.

I am now inspired to spread awareness about and fight against pollution after seeing all of its negative effects on the areas we visited.

ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS?

Definitely go into your gap semester with an open mind and be ready to experience things you may not be used to back home.

“This trip has proven to be a life-altering experience for me. It’s helped me to develop more individuality while simultaneously learning to work better in groups. I never would have been presented with these unforgettable adventures through any other platform.”

CYRUS KUSHA, DANVILLE, CA

“Being here has added emotion and purpose to learning, and I cannot imagine starting my college life any other way.”

TEDDY F., LOS ANGELES, CA

“The semester provided Dan with the perfect transition from high school to adulthood, allowing him the opportunity to grow and mature while learning lessons that can never be truly taught in a classroom.”

PARENT OF DAN M., WALLINGFORD, CT

“Katie had an extraordinary experience. It’s hard to say which was more of a factor—the incredible curriculum involving community service, conservation, education and adventure, or the incredible bonds she made.”

PARENT OF KATIE F., HILLSBOROUGH, CA

“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 is having this experience!!”

PARENT OF FRANNY E., NORTHHAMPTON, MA

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