2015 Global Leadership Adventures Catalog

2015 CATALOG

Life-Changing Journeys for High School Students ™

Our History Although we are an American organization, our roots are global. In 2003, the African Leadership Academy (“ALA”) began as a dream to develop future leaders of Africa, regardless of income. The idea sprung from the visionary mind of Fred Swaniker, a Stanford MBA who is originally from Ghana. Growing up and working all over Africa, he realized that the greatest obstacle to African development was a lack of ethical leadership. In an effort to combat this problem, he began developing a pan-African high school which would offer a world-class education and promote ethical and principled leadership among top high school students from all over the continent.

As a way to develop the curriculum and bring together students from Africa and around the world, Fred created the ALA Summer Academy.

After two years, believing in the potential of every young adult to be a global leader and make an impact, he changed the name of the organization to Global Leadership Adventures and brought on Andrew Motiwalla, a 15 year veteran in international education and Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, to lead the organization and replicate the successful model around the world. With this significant expansion came a greater opportunity to serve and to apply core values of integrity, respect, cooperation, compassion, growth, and optimism to many more communities around the globe.

Global Leadership Adventures is a division of Terra Education (“Terra”), a leader in the field of international service-learning. Terra also operates Discover Corps, one to two week volunteer vacations for adults and families, in collaboration with the National Peace Corps Association. For more information, please visit www.discovercorps.com.

Our Mission To inspire the next generation to realize their potential to transform the world and their role in it.

Our Values Our Integrity is unspoken. It is the unfailing framework from which we build every program, human relationship, and bridge into a community.

Respect is inherent in all of our interactions among students, staff, and all of the members whose communities we serve.

Respect means accepting and celebrating differences. Respect means considering all points of view, always.

Cooperation is key to our accomplishments. We are a traveling community, helping to serve other communities. We work together, learn from one another, and build valuable friendships in the process.

Compassion is what drives our service, and that compassion extends to students, parents, and host communities. Our care for people extends to everything we do.

We are invested in the Personal Growth and development of all of our students and staff. We foster an environment for students to safely explore, experience, and self-discover.

Optimism is at our core. We believe that anything is possible, and that every person is capable of driving and adopting positive change in the world.

Innovation is what makes us stand out in international education.

Open to new ideas and always striving to work better and smarter to serve our communities, students, and parents.

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Galapagos

Peru

Co s t a R i c a

D o m i n i c a n R e p.

Guatemala

Ghana

Ta n z a n i a

Bali

Thailand

In d i a

China

Fiji

S O U T H A MERI C A

C EN T R A L A MERI C A & C A RIB B E A N

A FRI C A

A S I A & PAC IFI C

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30째

+ 1 858 771 0645 3 www.experienceGLA.com

Global Leadership Adventures:

A Life-Changing Experience

On Developing Leadership Skills Mackenzie K. Highland Hall High School Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

AR FOTO

The most striking thing I learned was how to lead effectively. On my program, each GLA student was required to lead the entire group for one whole day. During the program, I realized that a leader must have deep convictions of his goals, be clear about what needs to be achieved, find the strength of each individual, and capitalize on that strength.

On Opening My Eyes to New Possibilities Evert D. Willem de Zwijger High School Hometown: Bussum, The Netherlands

On Unlocking My Passions Elyssa-June S. Bermuda High School for Girls Hometown: Bermuda

GLA has inspired me to see the world in a more loving and open way. It introduced me to new cultures and people that have impressed me in the most wonderful ways. I experienced the raw soul and the real people of Tanzania, not the tourist or city life. I learned to appreciate the details in life more and to really pursue the things I want in life.

My GLA experience in Ghana was the most memorable three weeks of my life so far, and I continue to tell my friends and family that I wish I could have remained there for the entire summer. Volunteering at the Keta hospital allowed me to learn hands-on about healthcare management. I was able to see how healthcare was provided to patients in a rural context. The few hours I spent at the hospital reconfirmed my interest in healthcare, and I’ve decided to study international health, humanitarian relief and development in university.

On Learning About My Role in the World Kelly V. Currently Attending: Stanford University Lewis Palmer High School Hometown: Monument, CO

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GLA was an eye-opening experience, both in seeing a new part of the world and gaining perspective on issues that cross societal boundaries. The people I met at GLA – the children, the grassroots leaders, and our fantastic program director and mentors – have hugely inspired me to continue to act as a global citizen throughout college and my future career.

97

%

agree

“When I look back on my GLA experience, I consider it to have been life changing.”

Based on a survey of alumni 3 years post-program.

On Uncovering New Career Options Rishi T. Currently Attending: UC Berkeley Saratoga High School Hometown: Saratoga, CA

GLA instilled in me a passion for international relations because it gave me the unique opportunity to look beyond words, photographs, and statistics and truly experience firsthand the workings of another culture. The community service and immersion into the village really pushed me to embrace the Spanish language and mold a global leader out of me. In college, I’m majoring in International Relations and Economics and hope to pursue a career in international corporate law.

On Helping Me Appreciate What I Have Valerie L. Walnut High School Hometown: Yorba Linda, CA

I learned to appreciate the things I once took for granted. GLA opened my eyes as to what really matters. Seeing the poverty-stricken families struck a chord in me because they worry about problems that don’t even come up in the minds of American teenagers. The question of how am I going to feed my children or where am I going to sleep tonight is always asked by families in Asia which is why I came to realize many of my problems are insignificant compared to those of these families.

On Improving the Lives of Those Less Fortunate Kevin and Sara V. Ocean City High School Hometown: Ocean City, NJ GLA Repeat Alumni

Each summer that we did GLA, our experiences were some of the most memorable times in our lives. Guatemala, the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica were all awesome. We did not know anyone else going into the programs, but we ended up making so many great friendships. The trips themselves are great, but it is so gratifying to be able to give back to countries in need throughout all of our volunteer work.

On Influencing College Applications Shaomin C. Currently Attending: Harvard University Choate Rosemary Hall High School Hometown: Singapore

What GLA did for me is show me the world in its most raw form and at the very same time, give me hope that I might play a role in giving these communities a brighter future.

In the face of despair, I saw the smiles of children. It showed me poverty at a level that was very extreme and I had not seen that before. My reflections on what I experienced and learned during GLA played a key part in two of my college essays and I talked about it extensively in the interviews.

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The GLA

Based on a survey of all 2013 GLA students.

difference

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Connect

Discover

Engage

Serve alongside communities. Develop meaningful relationships with local people and students from around the world.

Meet with leaders and organizations making a difference in their communities.

Learn effective intercultural communication skills as you promote cooperation and team building.

Immerse yourself in a culture different from your own. Engage in cultural workshops and adventurous excursions.

Gain new perspective on global challenges through service projects. Become more open-minded to differing opinions and ways of doing things. Challenge your assumptions about yourself, your country, and the world.

Set goals and create action plans to achieve them. Organize available resources and coordinate with the community to make a difference. Work as a team and strategically plan ahead. Debate tough questions with mentors and local partners: Where do we fit in? How do we connect our talents to those in need? How do we affect change at home and abroad?

97

%

agree

“I gained a personal connection to a culture different from my own.”

98

%

agree “I gained deeper understanding of challenges the world faces.”

98

%

agree “I am inspired to become more involved in global issues.”

Service Learning Adventure ™

transformation & Leadership is at the core of every GLA program. Through connection, discovery, and engagement, we empower students to pursue new passions, to set higher academic and personal goals, and to begin effecting change within themselves, their communities, and the world. The GLA impact does not end upon a students’ return from a program. GLA alumni in college and those who have graduated from college reminisce about their GLA experience as a pivotal moment in their life.

Full-Service Parent Support

Our Expert

Home Base Lodging and this is how we do it + 1 858 771 0645 7 www.experienceGLA.com

the GLA difference

leadership

5-Point Safety System ™

the

service

learning™ adventure

GLA crafts life-changing Service Learning Adventures. Each adventure is unique and purposeful, preparing students from across the world to be extraordinary leaders both abroad and in their home communities. We empower our students through a dynamic, integrated experience that combines three key components: Community Service, Hands-On Learning, and Adventure.

These components remain at the core of every program, because we’ve seen them transform students year after year.

Community Service the GLA difference

It is at the heart of each of our programs. Side by side with our local partners, our students extend a hand and learn about the impact of their service. Remote issues and concepts become people with faces, names, and needs. Some walls are torn down while others are rebuilt again, together, as classrooms and community projects. GLA students develop deep and lasting bonds with our partners and leave behind real, positive change.

Hands-On Learning The world is our classroom, and our students are also our best teachers. We learn as a community, through immersion and exchange, as we come to know others’ arts, cultures, and histories in ways that no textbook alone could ever convey. We also learn about ourselves and our roles in the world, discovering new passions and leadership skills. GLA students emerge as bold actors for change, building sustainable communities across borders. They also emerge with a deeper understanding of today’s global challenges such as healthcare, economic and political issues, children’s rights, animal protection, the environment, indigenous and women’s rights, and poverty, among many others.

Adventure That’s the “A” in G-L-A, and no GLA program would be complete without it! Each host community contains its own historical and cultural treasures, which are exceptional opportunities for you to learn, grow and challenge yourself in ways that you might never expect. Imagine finding yourself exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, zip lining through the pristine rainforests of Costa Rica, photographing lions and zebras on a safari in Tanzania, or simply trying a new food and making a new friend a world away.

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5

point

safety system

TM

Safety is our #1 priority. That’s why we have implemented the GLA Five-Point Safety System ™ to help ensure students’ safety and health and your peace of mind:

Safe and Secure Lodging Caring Supervision GLA policy is for no student to ever be by themselves at any point in time. Students should be either with staff members, in groups, or assigned to a buddy. Our student-staff ratio is 6:1.

Healthy Meals and Pure Water Meals are prepared fresh daily, with a healthy mix of fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and bread.

Students may sample local cuisine, but Western-style and vegetarian options are also available.

Students also have access to unlimited safe drinking water.

the GLA difference

Each program has a GLA Home Base, a place for GLA students. It’s their home away from home – to relax, enjoy meals with GLA staff and other volunteers, and reflect. Students room together in gender-segregated group lodging.

Expert Local Knowledge Our in-country staff members have intimate knowledge of the host community. They have established relationships with medical professionals in the area, as well as local organizations where students do community service.

Safe and Comfortable Transportation Students are transported in GLA-approved vehicles by experienced, licensed drivers. At time of arrival, GLA staff will be at the airport to meet and greet students. If the plane is delayed, they will wait until students arrive. At airport drop-off, GLA staff will help direct students on how to check in and find their flight.

+ 1 858 771 0645 9 www.experienceGLA.com

full-service

parent support

TESTIMONIALS GLA has a long list of parent references that you may contact at any time to learn more about our parent support system.

Please call 1-858-771-0645 to obtain the list.

At GLA, we are your tireless mission control. In other words, we’re with you every step of the way. We understand it can be challenging to leave your teen to the care of others, so we take equal care in providing superior support for every parent, before, during, and post-program:

Full Pre-Departure Support the GLA difference

Once you’ve registered for one of our programs, the GLA Team is at your disposal to provide full support for all your preparations: s Where and how to book a flight s Recommended routes so that GLA students can travel together s Understanding the passport and visa application process, step-by-step s Full access to the online GLA Travel Portal – network with other parents and students on your program and have all pre-departure info at your fingertips

In-Country Support and Updates During the program, we are your direct link, 24 hours a day: s Offering a 24-hour Emergency Hotline s Requiring all students to call home upon arrival in the country s Making you aware of any emergencies, changes, or updates s Relaying urgent parental messages to students and student messages to parents, via in-country staff s Providing evacuation and secondary medical insurance for all students s Linking you to periodically-updated student blogs, with pictures and accounts of students’ experiences, so parents can share in the journey (available for most programs)

Post-Program Follow-Up After the program, our staff follows up with every parent to: s Get your feedback on the program s Get your feedback on the level of parent support s Ensure we’ve provided the best possible service to you and your family

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Sam H. WINNETKA, IL “We are so thankful to find a program that is so safe as that was my biggest concern when she first thought of going. I would rate my experience with GLA a 10 out of 10! My daughter participated in the Ghana and Guatemala programs and loved both of them. She hopes to go to Galapagos next year! Thank you all so much for working so hard to provide such a great experience for the kids.”

Ruth C. LOS ANGELES, CA “Once Christine was set to go, I started feeling a little insecure. I contacted GLA by email, and received an immediate and detailed response, alleviating my concerns.

I was especially happy to be able to follow along with the trip events on the GLA blog, enabling me to have a visual of how happy my daughter appeared... and she was truly, truly happy. When Christine came home and shared some of her experiences and stories with me, I had a question for GLA administration. My concerns were dealt with in a professional and courteous manner.

I feel that GLA has a great deal of integrity in dealing with families. The concern for students well-being was consistent from pre-departure right through to the safe return home, and the weeks that followed.”

expert staff As part of the GLA experience, bright students connect with accomplished mentors. This is because our staff are not chaperones; they’re experts. By design, each GLA program is co-managed by both a local and international Director. The combination is key: each local director has intimate knowledge of the host community and culture; each international director comes from the U.S. or U.K. and has in-depth professional experience working with youth. All of our staff hold college degrees – most with graduate degrees. Many also return year after year to work with GLA. Explore some of our expert staffs’ backgrounds below: Meet more of our incredible staff on pages 72 through 74.

the GLA difference

Anne-Claire Benoit

Orlando Arizandieta

Esther Simba

Dave Addison

Ryan Feinstein

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR

LOCAL DIRECTOR

LOCAL DIRECTOR

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR

Anne-Claire was raised in California and studied French and Political Science at Simmons College. She served in Niger, Africa in the Peace Corps and also worked as a youth facilitator in California.

She then got her masters degree in International Development at the Monterey Institute of International Studies. AnneClaire has traveled to over 30 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa. She is excited to share her passion for travel, culture and service with GLA students.

Orlando studied Business Administration and is trilingual in Spanish, English, and Norwegian. In addition to having over a decade of experience facilitating service-learning programs for youth, Orlando has also worked for the Guatemalan government and with high school students and Returned Peace Corps Volunteers. He has worked to eradicate poverty, produce green energy, and promote multiculturalism and ethnic diversity. He finds sharing his culture and language with GLA students very rewarding.

Country Director for GLA programs in Tanzania, Esther has a wealth of experience in education and volunteer programming. She has taught primary school and secondary school, trained teachers at multiple teacher training colleges, consulted for the US Peace Corps, and was the founding Country Director for Cross-Cultural Solutions Tanzania.

She also co-facilitates international women’s empowerment workshops.

Esther has partnered with local and international organizations working to be the change.

Dave holds a BA from the University of the State of New York in International Relations and a PhD in Global Sustainability.

Prior to working with GLA, Dave was a US Navy Seal and a financial analyst on Wall Street. Having raised three children, he now lives in the Dominican Republic working on environmental sustainability and humanitarian projects with high school students and Returned Peace Corps Volunteers.

Dave loves sharing his knowledge with students and inspiring them to build a healthy, habitable planet for future generations.

Ryan is the founder of the Global Youth in Action Programs and was Project Director for the third international “Awakening Global Action” gathering in Bali. He has helped design and host all three “Quest for Global Healing” conferences with more than 1200 people from around the world. When not in Bali, Ryan runs leadership development programs for young people.

Most recently, he was in charge of leadership programs at the Jewish Community Center in La Jolla, CA. Ryan received his BA in International Studies from UC San Diego.

+ 1 858 771 0645 11 www.experienceGLA.com

21-Day Flagship Programs: the GLA difference

Throughout the catalog, you’ll notice certain programs are marked “Flagship.” Our 21-Day Flagship programs provide the ideal amount of time to satisfy every dimension of the GLA experience. Although many of the same objectives can be achieved on shorter programs, students have given GLA’s Flagship programs the highest ratings, and this is why:

» Longer service projects allow

home base

lodging

The GLA Home Base is one of many features that sets us apart from the rest. It is each GLA student’s home-away-from-home. Home Base is a space reserved for GLA students and staff, providing safety and security within a controlled, supervised environment.

Whether it’s a spacious house, a floor of a building, or a hostel we’ve taken over, the GLA Home Base is where students can relax, unwind, share stories, and build life-long friendships. Here students experience a group-living dynamic, which creates a sense of community, support and reflection throughout their experience. Many GLA students find that it also helps prepare them for the experience of living at college.

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students to make the greatest impact on local communities.

» 3 weeks is the optimal time to

develop lifelong friendships, not only with locals in the community abroad, but also with fellow GLA students.

» Additional activities included

on our Flagship programs give students a deep understanding and appreciation of a new culture.

TAKE A FAMILY VACATION GLA STYLE

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FROm THE SAmE pEOpLE

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combine meaningful volunteerism, fabulous sightseeing, and access to people and places most travelers never see. That’s because our volunteer vacations were created in collaboration with the National Peace Corps Association.

REQUEST A FREE CATALOG:

www.diSCOvERCORpS.COm/GLA DISCOVER CORPS ALL-INCLUSIVE TRIPS

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Read more at theyoungleader.experienceGLA.com

GAMECHANGERS

Lauren Sundstrom HOmEtOwn: Newburyport, MA EducAtiOn: Bowdoin College, Class of ‘17 trAvELEd witH GLA tO: Africa intErEStS And PASSiOnS: Competed on a competitive cheerleading team but “can’t hit a ball to save her life” Loves poetry and went to every Poetry Team competition at her school Self-proclaimed shopaholic who holds a part-time job at a clothing boutique

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Only three years ago, 18 year-old Lauren Sundstrom was a teenager without direction, spending much of her time distracted by a circle of friends that her parents worried was not a great influence on her. Lauren’s mother, Lisa, was especially concerned. “Lauren was in trouble. She just wasn’t being herself, and didn’t seem happy or confident.”

They knew that they wanted to help their daughter, so they encouraged her to find her passion. In addition, they agreed to fund her activities once she’d found it. “We were thrilled when Lauren told us that she wanted to see the world and volunteer in a new place,” says Lisa. “My husband and I were both raised abroad, and we know how important it is to have a global perspective and really understand how fortunate we are.”

After much research and careful consideration, Lauren found herself enrolled in the “Children of Africa” Program in Ghana, choosing this program because she loves working with youth. She spent her days and nights immersed in Ghana’s culture and with its children, seeing families in unimaginable poverty and desperately wanting to help.

Lauren also saw the difference in the quality of life for Ghanaians who were afforded the opportunity of a formal education. She returned home with a new outlook on her

privileged life and with a sense of responsibility to help the children and families of Ghana who had taught her so much while she was abroad.

That summer, Lauren started Clothes for Hope, a nonprofit organization that raises money for educational assistance and materials for children and families in need, both locally and in Ghana. Lauren collects donations of new and gently used clothing and hosts huge sales to sell the goods at discounted rates, and has raised over $100,000 to date.

With the money raised, Lauren has built a teachers meeting room, a library, and a middle school in Ho, one of the towns she visited with GLA. She’s also donated 280 school uniforms and hundreds of pounds of school supplies for children in Ghana.

Lisa couldn’t believe the incredible change she saw in Lauren. “As a parent, there is nothing more gratifying than witnessing your child being truly happy and doing what they love. Lauren traveled with GLA to Ghana, and when she returned she was a different person. She carries the people of Ghana in her heart, and her involvement has been such a blessing to our whole family.”

The Young Leader http://www.theyoungleader.experiencegla.com

JUmp OUT OF YOUR COmFORT ZOnE

A blog, created by GLA, where you can: Ω Ω Feed your desire to discover and connect with new places and people Ω Live in the moment, because life is too short to wait Ω Reach your incredible potential by making the most out of your time in high school Ω Take a leap by doing something you never thought you could do

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GALAPAGOS

Preserving Nature’s Wonders ™

ΩVolunteer to restore the habitat of native Galapagos wildlife ΩLive in a world where animals have no fear of humans Ω Snorkel with sea 18lions and multi-colored exotic fish Ω Straddle the northern and southern hemispheres at the actual Equator line Ω Kayak around untouched islands and see animals up close Ω Wander the cobblestone streets of colonial Quito

GALAPAGOS

Live alongside exotic marine life in one of the last untouched places on earth.

The Galapagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, are so unique that UNESCO has designated them a World Heritage Site. These 19 islands have been called a “living museum” and “showcase of evolution.” While the archipelago has been the center of attention from conservationists around the world, it is under constant pressure from environmental threats.

Come and experience one of the most pristine natural environments where conservationists are working to protect this unique ecosystem. Besides volunteering, you will also have the opportunity to hike lava fields, snorkel with sea lions and explore islands, volcanoes and reefs.

Community Service Of the nine days you spend on the Galapagos Islands, six of those days will consist of community service. The other three days will focus on exploring the islands and learning about the biology and geology of the Galapagos archipelago. The native wildlife of the islands is in danger because the animals’ natural habitat is under attack by invasive plants, litter, and foreign species. Students work to restore the natural habitat of the animals so that they can reproduce and grow. Our projects are in partnership with tortoise breeding centers on the islands of San Cristobal and Isabela. In all programs, students will have the unique opportunity to work on service projects on these two distinct islands.

14-DAY PROGRAM June 10 - June 23 June 18 - July 1 June 26 - July 9 July 5 - July 18 July 12 - July 25 July 21 - August 3 July 28 - August 10 August 6 - August 19 Tuition: $3,899 +

* The $600 domestic flight supplement covers roundtrip airfare from Quito to the Galapagos Islands and includes $110 of taxes, fees and permits paid upon arrival at the Galapagos airport.

Hands-On Learning

Lodging

Throughout the program, you will be in a “living classroom.” We will learn about issues related to the challenges of balancing the needs of humans with the imperative for biological protection and preservation. You will also witness firsthand the diversity of species that led Darwin to formulate his thinking on natural selection and adaptation. The entire journey will shed light into the history of these islands, human interaction and habitation, and the struggle to conserve the wildlife and fauna of this area.

To start and end our journey, we’ll stay at a local hotel in Quito. While in the Galapagos, we will stay on two islandsIsabela and San Cristobal. On Isabela Island, we stay at a comfortable hotel owned by a local family. On Cristobal, we stay at a rustic volunteer lodge in the highlands.

Link this PROGRAM tO »

Adventure This journey through the Galapagos Islands will prove to be the experience of a lifetime. This is not simply because of the rich and varied diversity of animals that you will see or their staggering numbers, but also because of their sublime indifference to you while observing them. Swim with sea lions and observe blue-footed boobies perched on rocks. The skies are filled with wheeling, courting, red-throated frigate birds. The lava rocks are piled high with motionless marine iguanas. A mind-boggling array of creatures lives in a paradise of crystal blue waters, white beaches and cool mangrove stands. Students will hike up to a volcano and explore one of the five largest calderas in the world. We will swim through lagoons, snorkel through reefs and see wildlife that you have until now only read about.

PERU Service in the Sacred Valley, p. 20: June 10 - July 7, June 26 - July 23, June 26 - July 30, July 12 - August 8

DOMINICAN REP. Beachside Service Adventure, p. 42: July 2 - July 25

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PERU

Service in the Sacred Valley

ΩVolunteer to improve the health and education of children Ω Explore the Sacred Valley Ω Visit key archaeological sites of20the Inca Empire ΩHands-on workshops on Andean music Ω Whitewater raft through the Andes mountains Ω Be dazzled by the colors of the indigenous craft markets Ω Discover the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu

PERU

The ancient Inca Empire is yours to discover while making a difference in the lives of families.

Discover Cusco, the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, an old civilization shrouded in mystery and tradition. Volunteer with non-profit organizations that work to improve the health and well-being of indigenous children. On the weekends, explore the Sacred Valley, go whitewater rafting, and even hike through the Andes mountains to visit Machu Picchu.

Community Service Our community service projects focus on improving public health for women and children.

We’ll partner with a rural village school and work to build a greenhouse on their property, helping to combat student malnutrition by allowing the growth of fruits, vegetables and traditional medicinal plants.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY FLAGshiP PROGRAM June 16 - July 6 July 10 - July 30 August 3 - August 23

14-DAY PROGRAM June 8 - June 21 July 10 - July 23 July 26 - August 8

The Quechua people of the Peruvian Andes are the direct descendents of the Inca Empire.

We will learn firsthand about their unique and rich culture through Andean music workshops, meetings with a traditional shaman, and a visit to a local llama farm. Informally, you’ll experience the local culture through soccer games with local youth, meetings with farming communities and engaging discussions with non-profit organizations.

Adventure

Lodging

The Sacred Valley surrounding Cusco is full of archaeological marvels built by the Inca Empire. We’ll visit many of these famous sites and even camp along the Salkantay Trail on our way to visit Machu Picchu. On our 21-Day Flagship program, you’ll also spend a weekend delving deep into the Sacred Valley by visiting ancient ruins and whitewater rafting down rivers winding through the Andes Mountains. We’ll also visit Pisac, one of Peru’s largest artisanal markets.

The GLA Home Base, which hosts the 14-day and 21-day programs simultaneously, is located in a beautiful hotel.

There are typically two to four students per room. Our cooks will prepare Peruvian cuisine. During our weekend hiking excursions, students camp in tents provided by GLA. Link this PROGRAM tO » GALAPAGOS Preserving Nature’s Wonders, p. 18: June 10 - July 7, June 26 - July 23, June 26 - July 30, July 12 - August 8

Tuition: $3,399

+ 1 858 771 0645 21 www.experienceGLA.com

PERU

Spanish Service Adventure

Ω Take your Spanish to the next level Ω Volunteer to improve the education of Peruvian children Ω Visit key archaeological sites of the Inca Empire Ω Whitewater raft through the Andes mountains Ω Shop and barter at the local 22 indigenous craft market Ω Discover the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu

PERU

Where ancient civilization and vibrant modern culture combine, your language skills will soar.

Catapult your Spanish skills to the next level while discovering Cusco, the cultural heart of the Inca Empire. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of ancient flutes, colorful clothes and cobblestone streets. Volunteer to improve the education and well-being of indigenous children. On the weekends, explore the Sacred Valley and hike through the Andes mountains to visit Machu Picchu.

The GLA Experiential Language Curriculum™ integrates Spanish language learning into all aspects of the experience, allowing students to take away more of the culture, and also leave more behind. From community service to excursions and cultural events, language is given a new context. Spanish class will never be the same.

Community Service Our community service projects focus on improving educational opportunities for indigenous children. We’ll partner with local artisans in Andahuaylillas and help to expand construction on a school for their children. We will also have the chance to spend time with these children, practicing our Spanish while playing educational games and sports with them.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY LAnGUAGE PROGRAM June 11 - July 1 July 5 - July 25 July 29 - August 18

The ultimate language learning happens when you can practice that language with native speakers in everyday conversation. We use a unique immersion curriculum that combines classroom time with spoken Spanish in the community – during service, cultural activities and excursions. No prior knowledge of Spanish is required; you’ll be placed according to your ability. You will receive about 45 hours of Spanish immersion over the three weeks.

The Quechua people of the Peruvian Andes are the direct descendants of the Inca Empire.

We will learn firsthand about their culture through Andean music and dance workshops, talks on Andean cosmology, and meetings with traditional healers. You’ll experience the local culture through soccer games with local youth, meetings with farming communities, and engaging discussions with non-profit organizations.

Lodging This GLA Home Base, located in a quaint mountain town 1 hour outside of Cusco (elevation: 10,850 feet, 3.3 KM), is in a beautiful colonial home. There are three to six students per room, with a shared bathroom. Our local cooks will prepare authentic Peruvian cuisine, which is among the most diverse and delicious in the world.

Adventure The Sacred Valley surrounding Cusco is full of archaeological marvels built by the Inca Empire. We’ll visit many of these famous sites, including an incredible weekend getaway to visit Machu Picchu. You’ll also spend time delving deep into the Sacred Valley by whitewater rafting through the Andes and visiting natural hot springs.

+ 1 858 771 0645 23 www.experienceGLA.com

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+ 1 858 771 0645 25 www.experienceGLA.com

COSTA RICA

The Initiative for Children™

Ω Make a difference in the lives of local children Ω Meet with NGOs doing important work in the region ΩLearn Costa Rican cooking, dance and music Ω Be a role model at a village school Ω Visit a hidden waterfall in the jungle Ω Learn to surf on 26 Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches

Embrace Costa Rica’s children and make an impact on the next generation.

COSTA RICA

Through schoolyard and community-based service that focuses on play and engagement with children, you will build connections with the local community and help to inspire a brighter future for its children. Be a friend and a role model to the youngest Costa Ricans! During downtime, you’ll get to experience everything Costa Rica has to offer, from lush landscapes and beaches to the rich culture found in its towns. These three weeks will open your eyes to a new way of life as the “pura vida” spirit surrounds you.

Community Service Dive into a rural Costa Rican community and feed your passion for working with youth.

The Initiative for Children focuses on service projects that are meaningful to Costa Rica’s children, and might include teaching English, organizing educational games and sports, providing lessons on recycling and basic animal care, and partnering with local grassroots organizations to help develop resources for youth. Above all, you’ll form bonds that will last a lifetime with children in the local community.

Hands-On Learning While you’re immersed in a new culture, learning happens around every corner. Soak up Costa Rica’s unique flavor as you explore the heart of Guanacaste, learn about the needs of rural communities, and participate in hands-on workshops. Learn about the education system of Costa Rica and how it compares to your school system back home. Discover salsa dancing, test your skills in the making of the traditional Costa Rican dish, Gallo Pinto, and hear the voices and stories of locals who have seen the landscape and culture of Costa Rica change over the course of their lives.

21-DAY FLAGshiP PROGRAM

Adventure

Lodging Your Home Base in Costa Rica will be in a private hotel 50 meters from a calm beach. This region is remote and accommodations are clean and safe. The Home Base is exclusively used by GLA students and staff, and is surrounded by lush rainforest teeming with wildlife. Students will stay in gender-segregated rooms with roommates, and will share gender-segregated bathrooms and shower facilities.

On this 21-day Flagship program, adventure awaits! In addition to exploring the rainforest, hiking to secluded waterfalls and scenic overlooks, and enjoying remote beaches, weekend adventures will add plenty of excitement. Zip line through the jungle, take a surf lesson or go horseback riding on one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. We will also dip into el agua dulce and explore Costa Rica on raft, tube or kayak!

+ 1 858 771 0645 2727 www.experienceGLA.com

COSTA RICA

Spanish Service Adventure

Ω Take your Spanish to the next level Ω Volunteer alongside communities and create a better life for their children Ω Dive deep 28 into social issues facing our world Ω Ride down roaring rivers Ω Zip line through the forest Ω Hike through stunning landscapes Ω Learn to surf at a world-class beach

On this adventure, you’ll learn all of the important Spanish words for: climb, zip, hike, swim, serve!

This is the best way to learn Spanish – in a fun and meaningful way! Costa Rica is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and a culture with warm and friendly people. Catapult your Spanish skills to the next level while volunteering in a rural mountain community, studying the language, and enjoying the breathtaking biodiversity and adventure of Costa Rica.

COSTA RICA

Community Service Our community service projects focus on improving sustainable farming methods for family ecological coffee farms in a beautiful mountain community. We’ll partner with local families who are committed to change and work together to build organic coffee cooperatives. We will also have the chance to spend time with their children, practicing our Spanish as we work.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY LAnGUAGE PROGRAM June 6 - June 26 June 15 - July 5 June 30 - July 20 July 9 - July 29 August 2 - August 22

There’s no better way to learn Spanish than immersing yourself and practicing with native speakers, while being coached by experienced teachers. Our GLA Experiential Language Curriculum ™ seamlessly integrates Spanish into many aspects of the program, including community service and cultural activities. Our unique combination of classes and community service allows beginners to quickly learn the basics and gives advanced speakers the confidence to communicate with locals. Over the course of the program, students will receive 45 hours of language immersion. You’ll also learn about Costa Rican culture through workshops on dance, cooking, music and social issues.

Adventure Costa Rica has no shortage of opportunities to get your adrenaline pumping! On this program, you’ll zip line through the treetops of the forest, go rafting down down roaring rapids, and ride a 4x4 over the mountains. You’ll also have the chance to explore Costa RIca’s world-class beaches, learn to surf, and spend a night in bustling San Jose- complete with a tour of the city.

Lodging GLA operates two Home Bases- both of which are nestled in the picturesque mountains surrounded by cloud forest.

Both locations have spectacular views, beautiful hiking trails and are exclusively used by our students and staff.

Link this PROGRAM tO » COSTA RICA Protecting the Pacific, p. 34: June 6 - July 9, June 26 - July 29, July 9 - August 11, July 12 - August 14, July 25 - August 27 Beachside Service Adventure, p. 36: June 6 - July 5, June 30 - July 29, July 24 - August 22

GUATEMALA Spanish, Service & Maya Culture, p. 46: June 10 - July 20, June 15 - July 25, July 5 - August 14, July 9 - August 18

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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COSTA RICA

Spanish and Service in the Osa

Ω Live in the heart of the Osa Peninsula ΩLearn, or improve upon, your Spanish language skills Ω Learn Costa Rican cooking, dance and music Ω Make a difference at a village school ΩZipline through the treetops of a dense rainforest 30 ΩExplore Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches

What’s Spanish for “the most biologically intense place on Earth”?

Use your Spanish skills, or pick up new ones, while making a difference in a village school. From informal opportunities to teach conversational English to building new playgrounds, soccer fields, classrooms or greenhouses, our service projects will reflect the local community’s needs. You’ll also have the chance to form meaningful relationships with children in the community.

COSTA RICA

Community Service Use your Spanish skills, or pick up new ones, while making a difference in a village school.

From informal opportunities to teach conversational English to building new playgrounds, soccer fields, classrooms or greenhouses, our service projects will reflect the local community’s needs. You’ll also have the chance to form meaningful relationships with children in the community.

Hands-On Learning

14-DAY PROGRAM June 29 - July 12 July 16 - July 29

There’s no better way to learn Spanish than immersing yourself and practicing with native speakers, while being coached by experienced teachers. Our GLA Experiential Language Curriculum ™ seamlessly integrates Spanish into many aspects of the program, including community service and cultural activities. Our unique combination of classes and community service allows beginners to quickly learn the basics and gives advanced speakers the confidence to communicate with locals. Over the course of the program, students will receive 30 hours of language immersion. You’ll also learn about Costa Rican culture through workshops on dance, cooking, music and social issues.

Adventure Take advantage of your incredible surroundings and get your adrenaline pumping. You’ll zip line through the rainforest, take a boat ride along Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific coast, and visit cascading hidden waterfalls. Explore Corcovado National Park- the gem of the Osa Peninsula- and try to spot some of Costa Rica’s shyest and most endangered inhabitants; Baird’s Tapirs, Jaguars, Scarlet Macaws, Harpy Eagles, and Red-backed squirrel monkeys. You’ll also hike through incredible rainforests, snorkel over coral reefs, and visit world-class beaches.

Lodging Your Home Base in Costa Rica will be a series of cabinas- built and owned by local families- in the heart of the Osa Peninsula.

This region is remote and rustic, but beautiful, and accommodations are clean and safe. The Home Base is exclusively used by GLA students and staff, and is surrounded by lush rainforest teeming with wildlife. Students will stay in gendersegregated rooms with roommates, and will share gendersegregated bathrooms and shower facilities.

+ 1 858 771 0645 31 31 www.experienceGLA.com

COSTA RICA

Empowering Rainforest Communities ™

Ω Sleep under the stars on a remote beach Ω Experience the mind-blowing diversity of the rainforest Ω Get airborne on a zipline 32through the canopy Ω Hike along the base of a volcano Ω Volunteer in rural communities surrounded by exotic vistas Ω Learn to identify species of tropical flora and fauna Ω Unwind in the wonder of natural hot springs

Discover a tropical rainforest teeming with heart-thumping adventure, wildlife, and communities in need.

COSTA RICA

UNESCO, a UN body, named this region a World Heritage Site. You’ll experience firsthand one of the most diverse destinations on earth as you live in two distinct ecosystems- a lush jungle lodge in a rainforest, and a dense dry forest teeming with wildlife. Hike along the base of a volcano above the clouds, zip-line over the rainforest canopy, ride horses through winding trails, and tube through rapids where the Atlantic and Pacific ecosystems collide. Experiencing the rainforest’s thrilling bounty inspires us to give back to the community, plant trees for reforestation efforts, and protect local wildlife.

We play sports with local children and volunteer in a rural community supporting local schools through building and improving infrastructure.

Community Service Students will work on two projects. First is a reforestation project. In the mornings, we will build tree nurseries and plant trees to reforest the area. We’ll also clear trails through the forest to prevent degradation by hikers and other visitors. A couple of afternoons we’ll go out with biologists to collect species as part of a larger research project going on in the national park. The second project is the rainforest. We’ll volunteer working on environmental projects in the area and with the local school.

Hands-On Learning 14-DAY PROGRAM June 6 - June 19 June 23 - July 6 July 9 - July 22

Tuition: $3,399

You will experience a range of distinct ecosystems and be able to compare and contrast each one. While living in the cloud forest, we’ll examine issues related to education, public health, and ecological conservation. See firsthand the challenges locals face with regard to access to natural resources. Along the way, you’ll discover a whole new world of animals and plant life. See tropical birds swooping through the forest and exotic monkeys playing in the jungle treetops. If you look closely enough you may even spot a rare sloth.

Adventure You’ll engage in just about every outdoor activity imaginable! The huge range of ecosystems concentrated in a relatively small geographic area provides a vast array of exciting outdoor adventures. We’ll explore the forests by hiking and zip lining. You’ll also hike along the base of an active volcano, camp overnight on a remote beach, ride inner tubes down a roaring jungle river, bathe underneath a waterfall and ride horses through the forest.

Lodging At both the dry forest and rainforest Home Bases, you’ll be living in rustic bunkhouses surrounded by nature. There are two bunk beds and a fan in each room. Cold water showers and western style toilets are available. While both are very simple living conditions, the rainforest location has cooler temperatures.

Link this PROGRAM tO » COSTA RICA Protecting the Pacific, p. 34: June 10 - July 6, June 26 July 22, July 12 - August 7 Beachside Service Adventure, p. 36: July 8 - July 30

GUATEMALA Spanish, Service & Maya Culture, p. 46, July 5 - August 7

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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COSTA RICA

Protecting the Pacific

™

Ω Volunteer alongside local community members to preserve and protect the Pacific Ω Learn to surf in Costa Rica’s first Marine National Park Ω Cruise through pristine waters, scouting for dolphins, whales, turtles, and tropical fish 34 Ω Hike through lush rainforest Ω Snorkel through warm waters exploring exotic marine life Ω Zip line through the forest

Turn your passion for Earth’s oceans into an experience you’ll never forget.

COSTA RICA

National Geographic calls it “the most biologically intense place on Earth,” and it’s calling you. The deeper your exploration into Costa Rica’s awe-inspiring, majestic waters, the more important your work to protect them will become. Here you’ll volunteer to preserve a coastline park called Whale Bay, and the greater ocean, as you discover the issues critical to local coastal sustainable development. Become a key team member, examining the full spectrum of marine conservation, from socioeconomic to ecological factors. Follow grassroots leaders and community members to breathtaking discoveries at every turn. You’ll also take in eyefuls of exotic wildlife, with the possibility of spotting tropical fish, dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and other sea creatures. Experience the thrills of the ocean on a surfboard as you work to preserve the natural beauty around you.

Community Service Contaminants generated by tourists in the local community find their way into the ocean, endangering Whale Bay and its wildlife. We’ll work to prevent these contaminants from entering the ocean through various environmental projects. Past service projects have included building filtration systems, cleaning up the beaches around Whale Bay with cutting-edge GPS mapping technology, and contributing to the work being done by the Osa and Golfito Initiative facilitated by the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment. You’ll also have the chance to volunteer at a local school to support ongoing projects designed to educate the community about recycling, trash and pollution.

14-DAY PROGRAM June 10 - June 23 June 26 - July 9 July 12 - July 25 July 29 - August 11 Tuition: $3,399

Hands-On Learning

Lodging

Through a variety of activities, you’ll get to know this community and its deep connection to the rainforest and ocean. You’ll immerse yourself in the history of the marine park, connect with grassroots leaders working to implement best practices for sustainable marine tourism, and play soccer with the local youth. You’ll even learn about sustainable lodging and take a cooking class from the leaders who operate the GLA Home Base!

The Home Base is a small hotel surrounded by lush gardens. Students stay in gender-segregated rooms with fans and bathrooms with cold water showers. There is also a pool. Meals will be hearty and healthy, consisting of meats, beans, rice, vegetables and fruit.

Adventure Adventure is an inescapable constant of the program. You’ll zip through treetops, swim in a waterfall pool, and learn to surf in the famous waves of Costa Rica. We’ll also kayak through the mangroves, snorkel in waters teeming with tropical fish, and hike through Corcovado National Park, crowned by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity”.

Link this PROGRAM tO » COSTA RICA Empowering Rainforest Communities, p. 32 June 10 - July 6, June 26 - July 22, July 12 - August 7 Beachside Service Adventure, p. 36 July 20 - August 11, August 5 - August 27 Spanish Service Adventure, p. 28: June 6 - July 9, June 26 July 29, July 9 - Aug 11, July 12 - Aug 14, July 25 - Aug 27

GUATEMALA Children of the Maya, p. 48: July 16 - August 11

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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COSTA RICA

Beachside Service Adventure

Ω Live in a coastal village near a beautiful beach Ω Volunteer to expand opportunities for local children Ω Relax in natural hot 36 springs Ω Ride inner tubes down a jungle river Ω Hike along the side of a volcano Ω Zip line through the forest

Experience the pure life - or Pura Vida - while giving back in an underserved beach community.

COSTA RICA

Its name captures the richness of its nature and its spirit, but words pale in comparison to the real thing. Escape to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, where you’ll volunteer in a beachside village and work to improve the lives of youth there. Clean up beaches, play sports with local children, help improve the schools, and relax after a hard days work at our beautiful Home Base. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy sports, swimming games, and other activities with your new friends from all over the world.

Community Service We’re living and working in a small beachside community where the ocean plays a large role in daily life. We’ll be working on a variety of projects depending on the need of the community. We may assist in projects to improve a school’s infrastructure (such as building a playground or an outdoor basketball court), provide after-school activities for children, or help the local development association and women’s group.

Hands-On Learning

10-DAY PROGRAM

June 26 - July 5 July 12 - July 21 July 20 - July 29 August 1 - August 10 August 13 - August 22 Tuition: $2,299

Living in an authentic community is a great way to learn about Costa Rican culture. Connect with the local people, learn to dance salsa and cumbia, taste delicious fruits, and try your hand at cooking local cuisine. Have discussions about current social issues in Costa Rica, including the impact Nicaraguan refugees have had on society.

Adventure Costa Rica offers many exciting excursions in a natural setting. We’ll zip line through a forest, ride horses through a jungle paradise, and ride inner tubes down a roaring river. You’ll also hike along the base of an active volcano and spend time on pristine beaches. Our location near the stunning Pacific coast allows us space for impromptu soccer and volleyball games as well as a variety of water sports. Dance the night away with other students, participate in team building activities, and catch breathtaking sunsets off the coast of majestic Costa Rican beaches.

Lodging GLA operates two Home Bases- both of which are located close to the ocean in Guanacaste. Both Home Bases have pools, impressive surroundings and will offer unique, authentic experiences in Costa Rica. Students stay in gendersegregated rooms with roommates, and have private bathrooms and air conditioning.

Link this PROGRAM tO » COSTA RICA Protecting the Pacific, p. 34, July 20 - Aug 11, Aug 5 - Aug 27 Empowering Rainforest Communities, P. 32: July 8 - July 30 Spanish Service Adventure, p. 30 June 6 - July 5, June 30 - July 29, July 24 - August 22

GUATEMALA Children of the Maya, p. 48, June 13 - July 5 Spanish, Service & Maya Culture, P. 46 June 10 - July 9, June 26 - July 25, July 20 - August 18

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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COSTA RICA

Sports Service Adventure

Ω Lead a youth soccer clinic and create memories for local kids Ω Live in a coastal village near a beautiful beach Ω Ride inner tubes 38 down a jungle river Ω Hike alongside a volcano Ω Practice your spike and serve in the sand Ω Find a new rhythm with Central American music, dance and tradition Ω Propel through a tropical forest on a zip line

Inspire a winning team and connect with locals through your shared passion for sports.

COSTA RICA

Learn about Latin American soccer culture and connect with the local community through a common passion for sports.

The ocean will serve as your own backyard as you play competitive sports with Costa Rican youth. Strengthen bonds with new friends through team building activities as you zip line, tube down rapids, and hike along the base of an active volcano.

You’ll go beyond the playing field as you try local foods, learn traditional music and dances, and spend quality time with Costa Rican families helping their community. Connect with local children in an active, meaningful way helping them to boost self-esteem, promote collaboration, and succeed in other aspects of life.

Community Service You’ll live and volunteer in a small beachside community where the ocean plays a large role in daily life and children only attend school for half the day. During the half of the day when they are not in school, we will connect with the children through their shared passion for sports. Additionally, we’ll help make improvements to their soccer field or school grounds. You’ll also have a chance to teach new sports like kickball and dodgeball as you set a good example and expand the awareness for good sportsmanship for the children of the community.

Hands-On Learning 10-DAY PROGRAM June 6 - June 15 June 30 - July 9 Tuition: $2,299

Living in an authentic community and participating in sports are great ways to learn about Costa Rican culture and its impact on society. Meet local families, learn to dance salsa and cumbia, taste delicious fruits, try your hand at cooking local cuisine, and learn about current social issues affecting Costa Ricans.

Adventure Costa Rica offers many exciting excursions in a natural setting. We’ll zip line through a forest and ride horses through a jungle paradise. You’ll also hike along the base of an active volcano. Our beautiful beachside oasis provides opportunities for impromptu swimming races, volleyball games, morning runs, and sunset yoga sessions complete with a stunning tropical view.

Lodging Our Home Base is located in Playa del Coco, a small, coastal town in Guanacaste. The Home Base is a small hotel near the beach with a pool, and is used exclusively

by GLA students and staff. Students stay in gender-segregated rooms with roommates, and have private bathrooms and air conditioning.

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Building a Sustainable World ™

Ω Volunteer to implement ecologically sustainable projects in rural areas Ω Visit Haitian resettlement villages Ω Ride a boat in the Caribbean and explore pristine beaches Ω Meet dynamic leaders and NGOs implementing cutting edge 40 social programs Ω Visit a bustling market on the Haitian border

Dive deep into environmental sustainability issues and develop leadership skills to address humanity’s greatest environmental challenges.

DOMINICAN R.

Led by Dave Addison, our International Director who has his PhD in Global Sustainability, the group will meet local leaders who are making great progress on sustainability in the Caribbean. You will be given the tools and support to design your own project as you collaborate with your peers to determine ways to empower change in a Dominican community, as well as in your home communities. You will evaluate the role of natural resources in your life and determine the vital purpose they play in the future of the world.

Community Service Our group will volunteer on various sustainability projects throughout the country including the construction of schools and medical clinics from recycled materials; we will also assist in the development of agriculture and reforestation systems. In addition, you can share your talents doing arts and crafts, playing sports and games and teaching basic conversational English with local children that our group will meet along the way. We’ll even visit Haitian resettlement villages and brighten the lives of those who have lost everything and now live in the Dominican Republic.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY FLAGshiP PROGRAM June 9 - June 29 July 3 - July 23

We will explore topics in environmental sustainability, the most critical issue of the 21st century. Through the service work and seminars, you will learn for yourself how to envision and change your life to become more sustainable. These seminars are carefully designed to allow you to make connections between the work at the community service project and issues facing the rest of the world. You will also learn about the vibrant Dominican culture through music, dance, and food.

Adventure

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a rustic eco lodge built from locally available materials in the style of the Taino Indians.

There is a small swimming pool and it’s right on the beach. Students will have four to six roommates per room.

Bathrooms have western style toilets and showers. This Home Base is exclusively used by our students and staff.

We’ll explore the tropical countryside through long hikes out to remote villages and swims in freshwater lagoons. We’ll ride a boat in the Caribbean, snorkel through crystal blue waters and coral reefs, and sunbathe on pristine white sand beaches. In addition, we’ll explore life in Dajabon, a small town on the border of Haiti with a bustling market and colorful culture.

The Dominican Republic is an ideal place for those looking for fun and adventure in the sun while making a difference.

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Beachside Service Adventure

Ω Play a key role in ecologically-sustainable development projects Ω Zip along a cable and freefall into a freshwater lagoon Ω Snorkel in the Caribbean among multi-colored fish Ω Ride a boat over crystal blue waters Ω Play sports and games with local children 42

Appreciate the beauty of the island and its people; be part of sustainable solutions to end its poverty.

To most visitors, the Dominican Republic is a travel destination famous for its enchanting resorts and beaches, as well as its friendly and vibrant people. But this Spanish-speaking country on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola is also a destination ripe for positive change.

DOMINICAN R.

You’ll spend ten days working directly with impoverished rural communities to better their lives: in the mountains, helping to build their schools and medical clinics, and in the lowlands, contributing to reforestation projects. Unmatched natural beauty and human interaction will allow you to share in the spirit and strength of the Dominican people.

Community Service Students will volunteer on sustainable projects, including the construction of schools and medical clinics from recycled materials. Students will also work with local children at Haitian resettlement villages, sharing their talents doing arts and crafts, playing sports and games, and teaching basic conversational English. Most importantly, you will be a friend and role model to young children who have limited exposure to the rest of the world.

Hands-On Learning

10-DAY PROGRAM June 20 - June 29 July 2 - July 11

Tuition: $2,299

Sustainable development has become a necessity for all of humanity. We must learn to live in harmony with our environment. Through the service work and seminars, you will learn how to live sustainably and develop tools to empower others to do so as well. We will also learn about the vibrant Dominican culture – a mix of indigenous, African, and European - through music and dance and interactions with locals living in the villages and coastal communities.

Adventure We’ll get out and explore the tropical countryside through long hikes out to remote villages, ride a boat over the blue Caribbean sea, freefall into a freshwater lagoon, explore underwater caverns and check out the pristine sand beaches and colorful local markets.

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a rustic eco lodge built from locally available materials in the style of the Taino Indians.

There is a small swimming pool and it’s right on the beach. Students will have four to six roommates per room.

Bathrooms have western style toilets and showers. Meals will consist of meats, beans, rice, vegetables and fruit. This Home Base is exclusively used by our students and staff.

Link this PROGRAM tO » GALAPAGOS Preserving Nature’s Wonders, p. 18, July 2 - July 25

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Spring Break Service Adventure

Ω Volunteer to implement ecologically sustainable development projects Ω Explore freshwater lagoons and underwater caverns Ω Ride a boat over crystal blue waters Ω Explore pristine beaches Ω Soak up the rhythms of the Caribbean 44

Spring Break will always be fun… but meaningful, too?

The Dominican Republic is home to the world’s most enchanting beaches, and is well known for its friendly and passionate people.

You’ll spend the week helping impoverished rural communities and also enjoy some fun in the sun swimming in freshwater lagoons, riding a boat through the Caribbean, snorkeling through crystal blue waters and coral reefs, and relaxing on pristine white sand beaches.

DOMINICAN R.

Community Service Students will volunteer on sustainable projects, including the construction of schools and medical clinics from recycled materials. Students will also work with local children at Haitian resettlement villages, sharing their talents doing arts and crafts, playing sports and games, and teaching basic conversational English. Most importantly, you will be a friend and role model to young children who have limited exposure to the rest of the world.

Hands-On Learning The Dominican Republic has a rich culture that combines African, indigenous and European traditions. You will learn about the vibrant Dominican culture through the music and dance and interactions with locals living in the mountain villages and in coastal communities. In addition, you’ll gain a deep understanding of sustainability and how development can happen in harmony with the environment.

8-DAY PROGRAM

Tuition: $1,899

Adventure This program takes you away from the typical tourist resorts of the Dominican Republic and exposes you to regular life in a rural part of the country. You’ll be welcomed into the local community while you dance to the beats of merengue and bachata music with the children of the neighboring village. Ride a boat through the ocean and explore the Dominican Republic’s northern coast. We’ll also visit a freshwater lagoon where you can zip line into the water and soak in the crystal blue pools.

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a rustic eco lodge built from locally available materials in the style of the Taino Indians.

There is a small swimming pool and it is right on the beach. Students will have three to four roommates per room. Bathrooms have western style toilets and showers.

This Home Base is exclusively used by our students and staff. Food will be healthy and locally grown consisting of meats, beans, rice, vegetables, and fruit.

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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GUATEMALA

Spanish, Service & Maya Culture

Ω Take your Spanish to the next level Ω Hike to the crater of a dormant volcano Ω Explore exciting works of indigenous art Ω Sample coffee straight from the source on an organic coffee plantation Ω Meet a traditional Maya 46 shaman Ω Take a whitewater rafting expedition on the Rio Naranjo

This is the end of vocabulary words and sample conversations, and the beginning of stories and accomplishments. Todo en español.

GUATEMALA

Step directly into the 4,000 year old world of the Maya: a civilization rich with history, art, culture, and breathtaking mountain scenery. In Guatemala, you’ll learn first-hand about how Maya traditions have both evolved and been preserved through a combination of globalization, civil wars and subsequent peace accords.

This GLA Language Program integrates the Spanish language learning into all aspects of the experience, allowing students to take away more of the culture, and also leave more behind. From community service to excursions and cultural events, language is given a new context. Spanish class will never be the same.

Community Service You will volunteer at a local school by refurbishing it and working with the children. The school is unique in that it actively promotes Maya language and culture. You will fix up the school by painting or building classrooms as well as organizing games with the children. In addition, you can share your talents doing arts and crafts, playing sports and games, and teaching basic conversational English. This is more than just a teen community service trip, it’s also an opportunity to connect with a whole new culture.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY LAnGUAGE PROGRAM June 10 - June 30 July 5 - July 25 July 29 - August 18

Learning Spanish is best when you can practice it with native speakers in everyday conversation. Designed for high school students, the GLA Experiential Language Curriculum ™ seamlessly integrates language into many aspects of the program, including community service, cultural activities, and excursions. Our unique combination of classes and community service allows beginners to quickly learn the basics and gives advanced speakers the confidence to use their skills with native speakers. You will receive 45 hours of Spanish immersion. We will also learn about the local culture through hands-on workshops with musicians, artists and weavers and even meet a traditional shaman who will teach us about Maya cosmology.

Adventure Throughout the program, we’ll embark on a range of adventures and visit many small towns and villages along the way. Over the weekends we’ll visit Lake Atitlan, the Maya market town of Chichicastenango, archaeological ruins at Takalik Abaj, organic coffee farms, and the sacred Laguna Chicabal, located at the top of a dormant volcano. During the weekdays, we’ll meet with a traditional music group, visit a Maya artist’s studio, try our hand at weaving colorful textiles and meet inspirational grassroots leaders.

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a lodge on the outskirts of Xela offering students a peaceful escape. Students and staff live in gender-segregated rooms with 2-4 bunk beds per room depending on the size of the room. Bathrooms are shared and have hot water. The Home Base is modest yet very comfortable.

Link this PROGRAM tO » COSTA RICA Spanish Service Adventure, p. 30: June 10 - July 20, June 15 - July 25, July 5 - August 14, July 9 - August 18 Empowering Rainforest Communities, p. 32: July 5 - Aug 7 Beachside Service Adventure, p. 36 June 10 - July 9, June 26 - July 25, July 20 - August 18

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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GUATEMALA

Children of the Maya ™

Ω Volunteer at a Maya school Ω Journey across sacred Lake Atitlan Ω Attend a ceremony with a Maya shaman Ω Explore 48 ancient archaeological ruins Ω Shop at the largest indigenous craft market in the hemisphere

See the world of the Maya through the eyes of a future generation.

Observing the traditions of an ancient culture, while navigating an increasingly globalized world, is the exciting challenge of this immersive program. Experience and interact with the art, artifacts, landscape, and inspiring young minds of Guatemala while you give back to a community in need.

Based in Quetzaltenango (or “Xela” – shay-lah – as it’s referred to by locals), four hours from the capital city, students will get to know the Xelaju people in this historically-treasured town of great scenic beauty.

GUATEMALA

Community Service You will spend the week volunteering at a local school refurbishing and building classrooms and working with the Maya children. The school is unique in that it is run by Maya teachers and actively promotes indigenous language and culture. In addition to building classrooms, you can share your talents doing arts and crafts, playing sports and games, and practicing basic conversational English with children during their recess.

Hands-On Learning

14-DAY PROGRAM June 13 - June 26 June 30 - July 13 July 16 - July 29 Tuition: $3,399

Rural Guatemala is the perfect place to learn first-hand about Maya culture. We will meet a traditional shaman who will teach us about Maya cosmology, and also learn about medicinal plants used by the Quiche people of the region. You’ll dive into Guatemala’s rich culture by learning how to make colorful indigenous textiles, play the marimba (the national instrument of Guatemala) and even soak up art by indigenous painters. You will meet with grassroots leaders to learn about the challenges the Maya community faces to preserve their heritage in the face of globalization.

Adventure Xela is located near many important cultural treasures, such as the famous Maya ruins at Iximche. We’ll participate in a traditional ceremony with a Maya shaman. We will visit Antigua, a charming colonial town with gorgeous architecture and cobblestone streets. We’ll also explore Lake Atitlan, which rests at the foot of three massive conical volcanoes, and Chichicastenango with the largest Maya craft market in the world.

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a lodge on the outskirts of Xela surrounded by beautiful mountains and fields offering a peaceful escape for students. Students live in gendersegregated rooms with two to three bunk beds, depending on the size of the rooms. Bathrooms are shared and showers have both hot and cold water. The Home Base is modest, yet comfortable for students.

Link this PROGRAM tO » COSTA RICA Protecting the Pacific, p. 34: July 16 - August 11 Beachside Service Adventure, p. 36: June 13 - July 5

+ 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com

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GHANA

Children of Africa

™

Ω Volunteer at a village primary school Ω Explore exciting national monuments Ω Absorb social issues facing women and 52children Ω Hike to a jaw-dropping waterfall oasis Ω Learn traditional African dance and percussion

Its villages will charm you, its scenery amaze you, and its children welcome you.

Ghana is often called the heart and soul of Africa because of its welcoming, passionate, and peaceful people. It is a particularly meaningful nation to visit for many Americans, as it is where a significant number of African Americans can trace their roots.

Besides volunteering to help local children, you’ll also immerse yourself in the vibrant African culture through traditional dance, language, and cooking classes.

Community Service Service is an integral part of this program. You will volunteer in orphanages and schools working with Ghanaian children. You may find yourself tutoring a group of kids in a classroom with no electricity or even under a tree with only a chalkboard and your own skills to share. Other service activities include making bricks that will be used in the construction of new classrooms and organizing a soccer tournament for local youth.

Hands-On Learning

July 31 - August 20

You will have the unique opportunity to meet with local tribe members and chiefs to engage in a deep analysis of traditional religion, the social construction of gender, the tribal system of chiefs, as well as the distinctive history of Ghana. Originally one of the hubs of the Atlantic slave trade, Ghana today has become a peaceful, democratic state.

Adventure 14-DAY PROGRAM July 26 - August 8 Tuition: $3,399

GHANA

21-DAY FLAGshiP PROGRAM June 13 - July 3 July 1 - July 21

Through a variety of activities, you will become immersed in this rich African culture.

We’ll participate in workshops such as cloth dyeing, drumming, and Ewe language crash courses. Additionally, we will meet with inspirational grassroots leaders to learn how they are addressing the pressing issues facing Ghanaian women and children today.

Through host family visits, you will have the opportunity to create meaningful connections and become a part of the rural village community. Experience and learn about Ghana’s rich cultural and historical backgrounds while actively participating in drum and dance, language, and cooking lessons. Explore outdoor markets with unique fruits and vegetables, beautiful cloth, handmade crafts, and world-class beads. On the 21-day Flagship program, spend a weekend exploring the mountains where we’ll hike to jaw dropping waterfalls and feed monkeys swinging from the lush rain forest canopy.

Lodging GLA has two Home Bases; both are located outside of Accra (the capital city) in rural village settings.

Accommodations are basic, but clean and safe. Students sleep in gender-segregated rooms with roommates, and have access to shared bathrooms with cold-water showers.

Link this PROGRAM tO » GHANA Building Healthy Villages, p. 54: June 14 - July 10

+ 1 858 771 0645 53 www.experienceGLA.com

GHANA

Building Healthy Villages

™

Ω Gain exposure to modern and traditional medicine in Africa Ω Examine public health issues facing the community Ω 54 Improve local health and living conditions through volunteer initiatives Ω Confront history at a 16th century slave fort Ω Journey down the Volta River Ω Explore African dance and percussion Ω Live just steps away from the beach

Apply your interests in health and humanitarianism on a life-changing African adventure.

Though hard to fathom, four-fifths of Africa’s population still lives on less than $1 a day. Improving health conditions is central to solving the problem of persistent poverty. This program is an unparalleled primer for those interested in the medical and public health fields. It will expose you to the unique spectrum of medicine in the developing world as well as the rich textures of African culture and landscape. You will visit hospitals, clinics and traditional healers. In addition to volunteering, you will visit a slave fort, travel down the Volta River, and discover African dance, music and visual arts.

Community Service This is a rare opportunity to affect the health of a rural community. One widespread challenge facing African communities is a lack of adequate sanitizing facilities as well as nutritious food for children. Our service project combats both of these problems. We’ll partner with village families in need of proper facilities, and each group will construct an eco compost toilet for their family from start to finish! This project dramatically improves health conditions, as well as generates high-quality fertilizer to increase crop yields in the community.

14-DAY PROGRAM

July 31 - August 13 Tuition: $3,399

You’ll have the opportunity to learn about public health not only through your service work in the villages, but also through conversations with local chiefs, assemblymen, and grassroots leaders. We’ll visit local clinics as well as traditional healers. Additionally, this program will immerse you in this rich African culture. We’ll participate in workshops such as African drumming, traditional dance and Ewe language lessons, and you’ll even have the chance to have clothing tailored just for you from bright Ghanaian fabrics.

Adventure You’ll live steps away from the beach, where most mornings you’ll wake up to the sights and sounds of fishermen. You can even join them pulling in the nets! You’ll connect with history at the Keta Slave Fort, one of the 45 slave forts built along the West African Coast during the 1500s. You’ll explore outdoor markets and discover fruits, vegetables, clothes, and handmade crafts found nowhere else on Earth. You’ll sing and drum as you cruise down the Volta River to the sea, and celebrate your amazing work with a bonfire on the beach.

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a cluster of simple beachfront chalets located near a fishing village on the southern coast of Ghana. It is approximately 2.5 hours from Accra, the capital city. Accommodations are basic, but clean and safe. Students will be staying in gendersegregated rooms with roommates. Each room has a fan. Students will be using shared bathrooms with cold water showers. In the afternoons, you can cool down after a day of work in a large salt water lagoon in front of the Home Base. This GLA Home Base exclusively houses our students and staff.

GHANA

Hands-On Learning

Link this PROGRAM tO » GHANA Children of Africa, p. 52: June 14 - July 10

+ 1 858 771 0645 55 www.experienceGLA.com

TANZANIA

Heart & Soul of Africa

Ω Volunteer at a village primary school Ω Learn basic phrases in Swahili Ω See zebras, elephants, lions, rhinos and more on 56 an authentic African safari Ω Hike to a waterfall near Mt. Kilimanjaro Ω Spend a day among the Maasai to learn about their culture Ω Learn African dance, percussion, bead making and even how to throw a spear

Explore the myth and magic of the real Africa.

Go beyond the movies and discover the real Africa: welcoming people, zebras, giraffes, lions, percussion, Maasai warriors and the astounding Mount Kilimanjaro. Work side-by-side with local leaders in orphanages and village schools. On weekend excursions, you’ll experience the raw beauty of East Africa as you embark on a safari, take in waterfalls near Mt. Kilimanjaro, and live among the Maasai people to learn first-hand about their unique culture.

Community Service As a GLA volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to improve facilities at a village schoolfrom refurbishing a classroom to building a playground. You’ll also form real relationships with the local children as you provide English tutoring and play games with them.

Hands-On Learning

14-DAY PROGRAM August 3 - August 16

TANZANIA

21-DAY FLAGshiP PROGRAM June 16 - July 6 July 1 - July 21 July 10 - July 30

You will learn about Tanzania’s rich culture. Specifically, you will experience the traditions of the Chagga people who live around Mount Kilimanjaro, including visits to their coffee farms and banana plantations. You will also learn about and meet members of the Maasai nomadic tribes who follow their livestock and do not adhere to national borders. Although English is widely spoken, you will also learn to speak some Swahili. You will hear from guest speakers about social issues facing the community, such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the history of East Africa, and even participate in art workshops such as batik and traditional music.

Adventure

Lodging

In addition to spending a day hiking near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro to a stunning waterfall, you will also visit some of the world’s most spectacular safari parks. You will visit two of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves: Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. During the weekend safari, you will have the opportunity to get up close to zebras, lions, leopards, elephants, wildebeest, rhinos, and many other species in their natural habitat. For those on our 21-day Flagship Program, the second weekend will take us to a Maasai village where we’ll be immersed in a traditional community and learn about their unique nomadic culture. Here, we’ll learn to throw spears, make bead jewelry and identify medicinal plants in the wild.

GLA has two Home Bases; both are located 45 minutes from the Kilimanjaro airport in small villages.

Accommodations are basic, but clean and safe. There are shared western-style bathrooms and cold-water showers. All students sleep in gender-segregated rooms with roommates.

+ 1 858 771 0645 57 www.experienceGLA.com

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+ 1 858 771 0645 59 www.experienceGLA.com

BALI

Land of Discovery ™

Ω Help children unlock brilliant opportunities Ω Go scuba diving and discover what lies below Bali’s turquoise blue waters Ω Delve into ancient temples and Balinese ceremonies Ω Surf the world-class waves of Southern Bali Ω Tackle the rush of 60 the Telaga Waja River on a whitewater raft Ω Visit a safari park to feed and ride elephants

Immerse yourself in the indigenous culture of the “Island of the Gods”, and discover unexpected treasures while scuba diving in the Bali Sea. Journey to the island of Bali - influence the youth of an indigenous culture, explore the many wonders of the island, and go scuba diving. Bali, also known as the Island of the Gods, is one of the most picturesque destinations on earth. Despite its famed fusion of spirituality and ecology, Bali has significant educational gaps waiting to be filled. You’ll volunteer in a local school, teaching English and inspiring children in the community. In the afternoons, you might venture off to the waters of a sacred hot spring, hike to a waterfall, or hop on a spider boat to catch the sunset.

Community Service Speaking English unlocks new opportunities for Balinese youth and allows them to discover new horizons. Lead an English class in a public elementary school, just minutes away from the beach on the northern coast of Bali. Create unforgettable bonds with your students as you share crucial language skills. Through service, you’ll interact with the local people and get a rare peek into the culture and daily life of the Balinese.

Hands-On Learning 21-DAY FLAGshiP PROGRAM June 15 - July 5 July 9 - July 29 August 2 - August 22

Surrounded by jaw-dropping views, green rice paddies and holy temples, you will immerse yourself in the culture of sustainable, communal living. You will attend workshops to learn the Balinese Gamelan drum and Legong dance, participate in an active community dialogue with the Prince of Ubud and play traditional games with local students your age.

Every aspect of the program plunges you into the center of this community and culture in order to uncover your own potential.

Adventure

Your home in Bali will be Lovina, a quiet coastal town on the Balinese coast. Seven traditional villages merge to form Lovina, and the coast is fringed by black sand beaches. This fascinating village has all the comforts of home, but has the distinct essence that draws people from all over the world to witness its serenity, beauty, and power.

Link this PROGRAM tO » THAILAND

BALI

Every day is an epic adventure in Bali, and you’ll spend the weekends and afternoons charting the island and all its breathtaking corners. You’ll quickly understand culture is based on living harmoniously with the natural world. You’ll learn to scuba dive and explore the coral reef, whitewater raft through luscious rice paddies, explore remote temple sites, visit an elephant safari park, and ride shoulder to shoulder with some of the world’s best surfers in Bali’s southern waters.

Lodging

Cultural Kaleidoscope, p. 62 June 15 - July 25, July 9 - August 18 The Elephant Village Initiative, p. 64: June 15 - July 18

+ 1 858 771 0645 61 www.experienceGLA.com

THAILAND

Cultural Kaleidoscope™

ΩVolunteer at a school, orphanage and women’s shelter Ω Experience Thai food, arts, & music Ω Bathe elephants in a river and take 62 them for a ride through the jungle Ω Zip-line through the rainforest Ω Visit with Buddhist monks and learn about their lives

Find yourself in a potpourri of saffron robes, green mountains, golden temples, & technicolor markets.

Journey to enchanting Thailand – a kingdom rich in culture, arts & tradition. On this program, we’ll volunteer at a local school and make important connections with the warm people and colorful culture of Thailand. We’ll also bathe elephants and learn about the complex factors affecting their existence in Thailand.

In our off-time, we’ll go bicycling and kayaking in the mountains, zip-line through the lush rainforest, and even get a Thai massage. We’ll learn how to cook Thai food and explore the night markets and famous temples of Chiang Mai.

Community Service Service is an integral part of the program. You will volunteer at a local school teaching English, playing games, and refurbishing the facilities. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to work at an orphanage helping children and at a home for single mothers exiled from their communities.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY FLAGshiP PROGRAM June 11 - July 1 July 1 - July 21 July 5 - July 25 July 29 - August 18

14-DAY PROGRAM

We’ll experience the diversity of Thai culture. You’ll have the opportunity to visit a hill tribe community, get an authentic Thai massage, visit the morning market to gather fresh ingredients for a Thai cooking class, learn Muay Thai boxing, and hear about Buddhism’s influence on Thai culture and society. Finally, enjoy being up close and personal with majestic elephants as you bathe, feed, ride, and learn about their lives in Thailand.

Adventure This program is filled with adventure, as Thailand is complete with not just culture but also beautiful landscapes. We’ll zip line through lush vegetation, ride a bamboo raft, and shop for handicrafts at the Chiang Mai night bazaar. Student participating in the 21-Day Flagship Program will have the opportunity to go on a bicycling and kayaking adventure through the beautiful mountains outside of Chiang Mai.

Lodging GLA operates two Home Bases, both of which are small resorts on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Accommodations are basic, but clean and safe.

Link this PROGRAM tO » THAILAND The Elephant Village Initiative, p. 64 June 18 - July 21, July 1 - August 3 Land of Discovery, p. 60: June 15 - July 25, July 9 - Aug 18

Tuition: $3,399

CHINA One Nation, Two Worlds, p. 68 June 15 - July 25, July 9 - August 18

THAILAND

BALI

+ 1 858 771 0645 63 www.experienceGLA.com

THAILAND

The Elephant Village Initiative

TM

ΩVolunteer with families caring for elephants Ω Connect with children at a village school Ω Speak with community leaders about the significance of their work Ω Experience Thailand’s vibrant culture Ω Visit colorful street markets filled with local 64 handicrafts Ω Test your skills through rock climbing and a high ropes course

Learn about the importance of elephant conservation and how to care for these majestic animals.

Travel to a rural village in northern Thailand where you will have the unique opportunity to connect with majestic elephants, and the people who commit their lives to caring for these special animals. In this program, we’ll rise early to bathe elephants in the river. We’ll learn how elephant conservation and tourism are connected and support the local community in these efforts. In the afternoons, we’ll volunteer on projects that will benefit the local community. These might include reforestation and sustainability projects, volunteering at a village school, or working with community groups. In addition to volunteering, we’ll explore the unique sights and smells of Thailand.

Community Service This is an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with elephants - animals that have a long history and capture the hearts of many. Travel to an Elephant Home where mahouts, elephant trainers, dedicate themselves to raising these animals. Work alongside the mahouts as you learn exactly what it takes to care for an elephant. In addition to caring for elephants, we’ll support the community through a variety of other service projects. Be a friend and role model to youth growing up in this rural community.

Hands-On Learning

14-DAY PROGRAM June 18 - July 1 July 5 - July 18 July 21 - August 3 Tuition: $3,399

Without the tourism industry, elephant owners would struggle to provide for their human and elephant family members. We’ll visit local non-profits committed to this issue and debate some of the controversy surrounding Elephant camps and tourism. We’ll participate in workshops such as cooking classes, Thai language lessons, and team building through rock climbing.

Adventure

The GLA Home Base is a rustic lodge in a northern Thai Elephant Home. The Home Base provides all the basic necessities for GLA staff and students.

Link this PROGRAM tO » THAILAND Cultural Kaleidoscope, p. 62: June 18 - July 21, July 1 - August 3

CHINA One Nation, Two Worlds, p. 68: June 15 - July 18

THAILAND

Take advantage of the special opportunity to wake up with the chance to connect with elephants. Rise at dawn to travel down to the river on the back of an elephant. Feel what it is like to ride such a strong and gentle animal. Hike through remote mountains on an overnight camping excursion. Hike through remote mountains as you explore Thailand’s rich landscape. Taste foods you may never have seen before. Explore outdoor markets and discover fruits, vegetables, clothes, and handmade crafts found nowhere else on earth.

Lodging

+ 1 858 771 0645 65 www.experienceGLA.com

INDIA

Service in the Himalayas

ΩWork in rural day care centers and organize a summer camp for children Ω Gaze in wonder at the Taj Mahal Ω Tackle issues of sustainability in a remote community Ω Meet cutting-edge non-profit organizations Ω Hike the snow-capped Himalayan mountains 66 Ω Reflect in the temple of the Dalai Lama Ω Hear from leaders of the Tibetan refugee community

Discover a great civilization, from majestic Himalayan peaks to the Taj Mahal.

Full of life, energy, color, and fragrances, India is an extremely diverse country. It is filled with vast differences in geography, climate, culture, language, and ethnicity. You will be immersed in local community life in the small township of Dharamsala, in the majestic Himalayan region. In addition to working in day care centers and running a summer camp, you will experience both traditional Himalayan culture and that of the Tibetan exile community. You’ll learn about prominent issues regarding environmental sustainability. Of course, the journey would not be complete without a visit to the Taj Majal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Community Service We’ll juggle rewarding projects during the program that will give us a glimpse into the lives of the region’s people. Helping to run a summer camp for Himalayan children, ranging from 4 to 15 years of age, we’ll develop arts and crafts projects, sports games, and dance and theatre workshops. We’ll also work in day care centers where the teachers and staff run their establishments with minimal resources.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY FLAGshiP PROGRAM June 13 - July 3

We’ll learn about the diversity of Indian culture, pressing social issues and India’s role on the global stage. You will have the opportunity to converse with grassroots leaders, environmental activists, and local political figures. While you’re spending time in a Tibetan refugee town, you’ll learn about Tibetan Buddhism, arts, and music. You’ll also taste the flavors of Indian and Tibetan cuisine and even learn to cook some meals.

Adventure

In Dharamsala, the GLA Home Base is a cluster of houses in a residential part of town where our staff and students will live together in gender-segregated rooms and enjoy home-cooked meals.

INDIA

A private air-conditioned taxi will take us to Dharamsala, located in the Indian Himalayas, and one of the most visually stunning regions on earth. During one weekend, we’ll hike out to a rural village where we’ll meet with the semi-nomadic Gaddi people and learn about their culture. We’ll spend the other weekend exploring Dharamsala and significant places related to Tibetan Buddhism, including a visit to the temple of the Dalai Lama. At the end of the program, we’ll travel south to the Taj Mahal, one of the great architectural marvels of the world.

Lodging

+ 1 858 771 0645 67 www.experienceGLA.com

CHINA

One Nation, Two Worlds™

ΩExperience the majesty of rural and urban China Ω Volunteer at a village school Ω Learn, or improve upon, your Mandarin language skills 68 Ω Discover Beijing, the political capital of China Ω Learn Chinese cooking and calligraphy Ω Hike the Great Wall of China

A full spectrum of Chinese adventure awaits, as complex as the country itself Welcome to China- one of the oldest, largest and most diverse nations on Earth. China’s complex society and rich culture are a sight to behold, and this is your ticket to a comprehensive view. This is not the China you may have imagined in your mind-- but it is rich in history and tradition. You’ll live in a rural community to get an authentic experience, see China’s incredible countryside, and make an impact on a village school through a meaningful service project. You’ll spend the weekends exploring important cultural sites, including the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven. And, of course, no trip to China would be complete without hiking the Great Wall!

This GLA Language Program integrates Mandarin into community service, excursions, and cultural events. It is a unique immersion curriculum designed by GLA. Our experienced teachers use classroom time to prepare students to speak Mandarin in everyday situations in China. It is an experience you cannot get sitting in a Mandarin class in school.

Community Service We’ll volunteer in a rural community school where the children are eager to share their culture and creativity. Teach conversational English through short lessons, play games and sports, and help improve the conditions in the community through a physical service project. Be a friend and role model to local children while making a difference.

Hands-on Learning

21-DAY LAnGUAGE PROGRAM June 15 - July 5 July 9 - July 29

The focus of this program is to gain a comprehensive understanding of contemporary Chinese society while allowing for students to explore the Mandarin language at any ability level. In addition to language classes, we’ll have hands-on workshops on Chinese cooking, calligraphy and kung fu. We’ll also hear from speakers on topics ranging from international relations to recent Chinese history. Along the way, we’ll have opportunities to engage in cultural exchange with people from all sections of Chinese society, from farmers and businesspeople to teenagers and migrant workers. Our unique combination of classes and community service allows beginners to quickly learn the basics and gives advanced speakers the confidence to use their skills with native speakers. No prior knowledge of Mandarin is required.

Adventure China is a beautiful nation packed with opportunities for exploration and adventure. From an overnight stay in the Shizhong Temple, surrounded by Macac monkeys, to exploring the incredible Stone Forest, your adventures will show you the beauty of this diverse nation.

During your time in Beijing, you’ll also have the the chance to hike to the top of the Great Wall of China. You’ll also discover marvels like Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden City, The Temple of Heaven, and other places of cultural significance.

The GLA Home Base in China is located in stunning, rural Shaxi, a historic market town in the Yunnan province.

Accommodations are basic, but clean and safe. Students will sleep in gender-segregated rooms with roommates.

During weekend excursions, we will stay in a small hotel.

Link this PROGRAM tO » THAILAND Cultural Kaleidoscope, p. 62: June 15 - July 25, July 9 - August 18 The Elephant Village Initiative, p. 64: June 15 - July 18

CHINA

* The $400 domestic flight supplement covers one-way airfare from Beijing, and includes all taxes, fees and associated costs paid upon arrival at the rural airport.

Lodging

+ 1 858 771 0645 69 www.experienceGLA.com

FIJI

Empowering Island Communities™

ΩWake up daily on a remote island, surrounded by stunning beachfront and coconut trees Ω Volunteer at a local school Ω Honor the islands’ fragile ecosystem by planting trees and cleaning up beaches Ω Hike to the highest point in the Yasawa islands for a breathtaking 70 360-degree view Ω Snorkel along coral reefs teeming with exotic fish and marine life

333 islands. One Pacific paradise.

This is Fiji, where powerful seeds of opportunity await your planting.

These islands are some of the most remote places on Earth. Fiji is indeed a tropical paradise. It is also a country with tremendous need. Learn about the settlement of the Pacific – how great explorers crossed thousands of miles of ocean by canoe to settle here. Watch the vast Pacific Ocean devour the setting sun each night. Connect through Fijian music and dance with a culture unlike any other. Volunteer at schools facing challenges in providing quality education to children. Work with organizations to protect the environment and combat deforestation. Uncover the complexities of each challenge as you play games with the children and marvel at the diversity of the marine life.

Community Service Teachers in Fiji face numerous challenges in their effort to provide quality education for all children. The geographical distribution of the population is a contributing factor. Learn about how rural schools lack proper water and electricity and have insufficient housing for teachers. You’ll become a friend and role model to the children as you teach lessons and work to improve the learning environment at their school. You’ll also assist communities in protecting the environment that is so integral to their way of life.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY FLAGshiP PROGRAM June 11 - July 1 July 5 - July 25 July 29 - August 18

In remote villages, learn what it is like to truly live off of the land. Help community members cultivate fruits and vegetables. Discover the many uses for a coconut and crack it open – if you can! Fish for your dinner. Consider how far other food may travel to reach you. Try your hand at weaving – mats for flooring, baskets and bags for gathering, or hats used to shield the sun. Watch and listen as ancient stories and legends unfold through traditional song and dance. Witness the deep respect this community has for its elders and dialogue with village leaders about the issues facing their community. Gain their perspective and unique approach to affect change for future generations.

Adventure

Lodging The main GLA Home Base in Fiji is located on a private beach, steps away from the ocean. Students live in gender-segregated beachside bungalows with roommates.

While living conditions are simple, you will quickly discover the rhythm of daily Fijian life. The Home Base is conveniently located near our service site and reflects the flavor of the island.

FIJI

Life in Fiji is a daily adventure. Glide by boat over crystal blue waters and swim alongside pods of peaceful manta rays. Snorkel over coral reefs teeming with colorful fish as you explore the beauty of the coral’s shapes and colors. Visit a hot natural mud pool and soak in its nourishing powers. Hike to the highest peak in the island chain and see the world from a different angle. Experience the vastness of the universe as you gaze at more stars than you’ve ever seen at once.

+ 1 858 771 0645 71 www.experienceGLA.com

staff profiles 72

Andrew Motiwalla

Sandy Cooper

FOUNDER Andrew served in the Peace Corps and has extensive experience operating international educational programs around the world. He served as Senior Vice President for the non-profit international volunteer program Cross-Cultural Solutions, where he helped build programs from scratch into a network of 14 countries and 2,500 volunteers. Andrew is a graduate of Lawrence University and has done graduate studies in non-profit management at New School University in New York City. He speaks Spanish and Portuguese.

DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS Sandy first lived abroad at age 15, and has continued to live, study, travel, and work in over 30 countries. After graduating from Skidmore College, Sandy served with the Peace Corps in the Republic of Kiribati and with AmeriCorps as a Team Leader. Her commitment to social responsibility led Sandy to co-found Thinking Beyond Borders, an organization designed for Gap Year students to explore international development through global service learning and academic study. Sandy is certified in Nonprofit Management, is a Wilderness First Responder, and speaks Spanish and Kiribati.

Fred Swaniker

Lisa Galloway

FOUNDER Originally from Ghana, Fred lived all over the African continent before attending Macalester College in St. Paul, MN and then the Stanford Graduate School of Business. It was during his time at Stanford when he realized that it was a lack of ethical, principled leadership that was holding back development on the African continent. Determined to address this fundamental challenge, he formed his vision for the African Leadership Academy. In order to build cross-cultural leadership abilities in all youth, he conceived what would become Global Leadership Adventures.

TRAVEL OPERATIONS MANAGER Lisa had her first volunteer abroad experience as a young adult in Costa Rica. This experience changed the way she thought about herself, her world, and traveling internationally. After graduating from SDSU, Lisa traveled to New Zealand, Fiji, Japan, and across the United States. She is excited to help high school students embark on international volunteer experiences that will change their lives. Lisa has staffed GLA programs in Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Tanzania, Ghana, and Peru.

Mike Shangkuan EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Although he was born and raised in New Jersey, he is the son of parents who emigrated from Taiwan. His passion for travel and immersing himself in other cultures began in high school when he took his first trip outside of the States to France. It was a life-changing experience.

Since then he has lived in eight countries across Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Mike is fluent in Mandarin and Spanish and likes to travel, lift weights, and sing in his free time. He graduated from Yale in 1997 with a BA in economics and from Harvard Business School in 2002 with a MBA.

Judy Calkins FINANCIAL CONTROLLER A California native, Judy is the Financial Controller, earning her degree from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA. She has held several finance, leadership, and IT positions during that time. She has traveled internationally to Costa Rica, Ireland, Scotland, Mexico and Peru.

She has volunteered in Peru, with Big Sisters and in youth sports. She loves reading, hiking, snow skiing and trying new adventures. She has a passion to help broaden high school students’ knowledge of life experiences through international travels and understanding other cultures.

Jessica Rose Miller

Charlotte Romero

DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS Jessica has always had passion for leadership development and initiating personal change as she is proud to be a first generation college graduate. Her passion for international education and social entrepreneurship stems from various experiences studying, living and working abroad, as well as years of experience operating and managing international programs in developing countries for GLA. Jessica is a graduate of Oregon State University, where she studied history, anthropology and Spanish.

She believes in the genuine inspiration and transformation of the next generation through authentic, international learning experiences abroad.

ACCOUNTANT Charlotte has her BA in accounting from Columbia College and is the Treasurer for The Kiwanis Club of Hidden Valley and Club Coordinator for the Eliminate Project. She believes in changing the world one child and one community at a time.

Bridget McTaggart

Sue Cuthbert

Melissa Guerrero

SENIOR ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Bridget loves helping students find international experiences that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. During the past 5 years with GLA, Bridget has worked on programs in Brazil, Dominican Republic, Peru, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Ghana, and Tanzania.

ENROLLMENT ADVISOR After sending her son on a GLA program to Tanzania, she was so impressed with the program and the transformation, she was excited to work for GLA and help other teens do the same. She is a graduate of San Diego State University.

SENIOR STUDENT COORDINATOR Melissa was born in Guayaquil, Ecuador and immigrated to Southern California when she was 2 years old. After earning her BA and BCLAD credential at San Diego State University, she spent time abroad where she discovered her passion to transform future generations through travel and education.

Korissa Dyle

Jordan Boone

SENIOR ENROLLMENT ADVISOR A Green Bay, WI native, Korissa discovered her passion for international education while studying abroad in Mexico and Spain through the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. You can find her at the GLA headquarters leading the way for her team with innovative new systems and chatting with families about GLA daily!

ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Jordan is passionate about ethical travel and cultural immersion and believes young people benefit tremendously from experiencing service-learning programs. Soon after graduating from Cal State San Marcos, he lived and played basketball in the Philippines. He has also traveled to Cuba, Mexico, Costa Rica, and South Korea.

Paulina Gajardo

Tim Easley

Sarah Davidson

SENIOR ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Paulina has a degree in Political Science from SDSU and has traveled in Latin America, Africa and Europe. She has experience mentoring students in Guatemala and Tanzania. She has a degree in Political Science from SDSU and believes volunteering abroad at a young age fosters a sense of social responsibility and compassion towards others.

ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Tim has worked with GLA in Tanzania and Thailand and he’s excited by how many young people are interested in not just traveling the world, but changing it! Tim comes from a family of traveling people and hopes to inspire the people he meets.

STUDENT COORDINATOR Sarah received a BA in Anthropology from UC Berkeley. From her extensive travels she has come to understand first-hand the value of experiences abroad, and she’s excited to help students prepare for programs that will change their lives and their perspective on the world.

Maria McCain

Hannah Shepherd

Sommer Cartier

SENIOR ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Maria regards travel as the most influential gift. She has traveled extensively in Latin America, and in Europe while living in England. Maria also received her BS in Environmental & Natural Resource Economics from West Virginia University.

ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Hannah, who grew up in England and now resides in San Diego, believes that exposure to different cultures should be embraced at a young age.

She benefited from volunteering in Costa Rica on a high school program, which inspired her to travel throughout Europe, Central America, Australia, Africa, and the United States.

STUDENT COORDINATOR Sommer has a deep appreciation for service-learning, as it has greatly influenced her own personal growth.

She earned her MA in International Development and Social Change at Clark University, and has spent time working on projects throughout Asia and Latin America.

Jenica Pistone STUDENT COORDINATOR Jenica graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in English, but after studying abroad and traveling through Latin America, she developed a passion for travel. She loves helping young people prepare for their own unique life-changing experiences abroad.

+ 1 858 771 0645 73 www.experienceGLA.com

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For more staff profiles, please see page 11.

Jordan Hatt

Brett Scuiletti

STUDENT COORDINATOR Jordan is a native of San Diego.

She received her Master of Library and Information Science from the University of British Columbia, where she focused on working with international communities in support of ongoing developments in culture and languages.

CONTENT MARKETING STRATEGIST

Carly Sullivan

Sydney Miller

PROGRAM SPECIALIST With a degree in Natural Resource Management and a deep admiration for the outdoors, Carly believes the world is our classroom and the most effective type of education is through experience! She has been with GLA since 2009 and is excited to be part of this inspiring process for teens!

MARKETING COORDINATOR Sydney believes that the future depends upon people being thoughtful, dedicated global citizens, and that traveling abroad is one of the best ways to achieve this. She earned her BA from Oregon State University and has traveled throughout Europe and Costa Rica.

Eric DeDonato

Carol della Croce

PROGRAM SPECIALIST Eric was a Peace Corps Volunteer and has lead GLA trips in Costa Rica and Peru. Eric has a M.S. in Health Behavior and Health Education, and is passionate about responsible service, mind-opening international travel and global citizenship.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Brett describes his job as connecting people from digital spaces to real-life places. He graduated as a Journalism and Communications Fellow at Elon University and has traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and Western Europe.

A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Carol holds a degree in social communications and graphic design from Buenos Aires University. Having staffed programs in the Dominican Republic, Peru, Costa Rica, and Guatemala, she aspires to provide eye-opening experiences to younger generations.

Penny Mann

Sara McDaniel

DIGITAL MARKETING STRATEGIST Penny has always had a love for cultures other than her own. She has traveled throughout Europe and spent 3 years living and working with the Romany in Hungary. Penny enjoys being able to introduce GLA to teenagers who have not yet discovered the power and excitement of international volunteerism.

WRITER Sara is working toward her Ph.D. in education at SDSU. She was a Teach for America Corps Member, and believes education is critical in addressing societal inequities and in giving youth opportunities to develop their global consciousness.

Read more at theyoungleader.experienceGLA.com

GAMECHANGERS

“

“ Adam Willis

HOmEtOwn: Berlin, Massachusetts EducAtiOn: University of Massachusetts ‘17 trAvELEd witH GLA tO: South Africa, Peru and China intErEStS And PASSiOnS: Firm believer that summertime means “no shoes unless you’re working” Vegetable farmer on a 7th generation family farm in his hometown.

Easygoing, friendly, and incredibly compassionate, Adam Willis is the type of young man who could be your neighbor or classmate. He plays basketball. He has a job. He can talk to anyone - and he makes an effort to do so.

When Adam arrived in Beijing, China for his first GLA program, he had worked ardently to fundraise for the trip and convince his parents to allow him to go. By the end of his three weeks in China, he had fully embraced exploring the world and had furthered his passion for the Chinese culture. He threw himself completely into the experienceand it was reflected in his attitude and genuine appreciation. This love for immersion in new cultures eventually led Adam to travel on two additional GLA programs, to Africa and Peru, after his experience in China.

“One of the most amazing things about traveling and experiencing new cultures is the opportunity to have

dialogue with those who are different than you. GLA programs were incredibly eye-opening to me. From learning about the intense urban issues Africa faces to hiking Machu Picchu, I grew to love the people and cultures that I experienced.”

Thanks to his appreciation for experiencing diverse cultures and spending time in developing countries, Adam is pursuing an International Relations Certificate, in addition to advanced language study, at the University of Massachusetts. He hopes to use the lessons he has learned through travel to inspire others.

“I’m still in the process of learning Mandarin, I am reading a book on Peru, and I’m wearing a bracelet that I bought in Africa 2.5 years ago. GLA has completely impacted me, and completely impacted my attitude and goals for the future.”

+ 1 858 771 0645 75 www.experienceGLA.com

An adventure to fuel your passions, or find a new one.

As a teen volunteer with GLA, you’re in the unique and incredible position of being part of a diverse group of high school students from across the globe that want to make a difference – and be the change – far from home.

You also have an enviable choice: be an explorer and find your passion in service of a communityin-need, or be an enthusiast and fuel your passion on a project that builds on your interests.

FIND YOUR PASSION FIND YOUR PASSION by taking advantage of a wide variety of incredible opportunities that contribute to global communities in need - and get a sense of how you can use your talents to help.

PERU Service in the Sacred Valley

TANZANIA Heart and Soul of Africa

FIJI Empowering Island Communities ™

BALI Land of Discovery ™

THAILAND Cultural Kaleidoscope ™

INDIA Service in the Himalayas

COSTA RICA Beachside Service Adventure

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Beachside Service Adventure Spring Break Service Adventure

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FUEL YOUR

PASSION

FUEL YOUR PASSION for a global issue you care about or are interested in by diving deep into a service project focused on this issue-and experience it all with like-minded peers.

CHILDREN

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION

s GHANA: Children of Africa ™

s GALAPAGOS: Preserving Nature’s Wonders ™

s GUATEMALA: Children of the Maya ™

s THAILAND: The Elephant Village Initiative ™

s COSTA RICA: The Initiative for Children ™

LANGUAGE IMMERSION

SPORT s COSTA RICA: Sports Service Adventure

s GUATEMALA: Spanish, Service & Maya Culture s COSTA RICA: Spanish Service Adventure s COSTA RICA: Spanish and Service in the Osa s PERU: Spanish Service Adventure

PUBLIC HEALTH s GHANA: Building Healthy Villages ™

s CHINA: One Nation, Two Worlds ™

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION s DOMINICAN REP: Building a Sustainable World ™ s COSTA RICA: Protecting the Pacific ™ s COSTA RICA: Empowering Rainforest Communities ™

+ 1 858 771 0645 77 www.experienceGLA.com

Our Expectations Our mission at GLA is “to inspire the next generation to realize their potential to transform the world and their role in it.” To that end, we expect GLA students to maintain high standards of personal behavior and to be open-minded. The culture will be different, sometimes shockingly so. GLA will challenge students as they are expected to work hard and really be present physically and mentally for all activities. They will get hot, dirty and bug bitten along the way, but their contribution will transform the community. The goal is for each student to return home with a life-changing experience.

GLA has a zero-tolerance policy toward drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and disruptive behavior.

Those who violate or are suspected of violating this policy will be immediately dismissed from the program at the sole discretion of GLA staff.

GLA makes every effort to offer well-thought-out programs crafted for high school students and we do thorough planning. However, the descriptions in this catalog and itineraries are based on previous programs and plans for the coming year. Actual order of activities may vary by program session depending upon the needs of our local community partners, various celebrations and customs, and the weather. Occasionally, activities may be replaced by other activities.

GLA is not a therapeutic program. Our staff are highly skilled, professional, caring, and fun, but they are not licensed therapists. GLA programs can be physically and emotionally demanding, and applicants should be in good physical and mental health.

Looking for a Group Experience?

Whether you’re an educator, faculty advisor or a group leader who wants to create a GLA experience for your group, we will personally work with you to create a program that matches the unique goals and topics you want to address among the programs and country options that we offer.

FAQs For a more detailed FAQ, visit www.experiencegla.com/program-details/faq How is GLA different from other programs?

GLA is different for three reasons. First, GLA believes that leaders are made and not born.

Leadership Development and Personal Transformation are at the core of every GLA program and interwoven in the service, workshops, and excursions (See pg. 6 for details). Second, GLA operates only in developing countries in cultures significantly different from the West in authentic, non-tourist communities so that students have a life-changing experience. Third, GLA works only with high school students. Our safety standards (The Five Point Safety System ™) and curriculum (The Service Learning Adventure ™) are tailored to the growth and development of teens.

How do you help ensure safety?

Safety is our #1 priority. Working only with teenage students and only in developing countries, we operate with keen awareness of the unique safety issues and concerns that may arise. That’s why GLA has implemented the GLA Five-Point Safety System ™: 1) Safe and Secure Lodging, 2) Caring Supervision, 3) Healthy Meals and Pure Water, 4) Safe and Comfortable Transportation, and 5) Expert Local Knowledge. To learn more about the GLA Five-Point Safety System ™, see page 9.

How do you assess the safety of your destinations, and what happens if there is an incident that compromises the students’ safety?

In addition to regular reports that we get from the US, Canadian and British Departments of State, we liaise with consular offices in the countries to which we travel. We also rely on our own in-country contacts to determine the safety of a particular country: the people with whom we set up our programs and GLA staff. If we ever determine a country or region to be unsafe, we will close the program and fully refund all enrolled students.

How do students travel to the destination country?

Group programs typically range from 7 days to several weeks, and are always assembled with great care and led by our experienced staff. Your group can utilize our existing curriculum, or work with our partners to implement some of your own ideas and lessons.

Once enrolled, we provide exact information about which airport to fly into and any schedule restrictions. We offer a suggested route for each program for students who wish to fly with other students. This is not a chaperoned flight, but students can meet at the gateway airport and fly to the destination country together. Once enrolled in a program, we will provide the suggested route information to you.

We have a simple 3-step process for setting up and running your group program: 1) PROGRAM SELECTION - Work with our Groups Lead to select a program location, define

Can I fundraise?

dates and duration.

2) PROMOTIONS - We’ll provide you with materials you can use to promote the program to students and parents. We can also offer informational sessions for families via conference call or video conference.

3) PAYMENT & PRE-DEPARTURE - Students and Families can easily make payments through their online account. Then, work with GLA Groups Coordinators to support and prepare your group for departure and your journey abroad.

Contact Jordan Boone, Groups Lead, to get started: groups@experienceGLA.com.

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Yes. Every year, students fundraise a part or all of their tuition. We have a kit full of ideas and letter templates you can use to help you fundraise. Please visit www.experienceGLA.com/fundraising for more information.

Who meets my student in country?

GLA staff picks up every student at the airport upon arrival to the destination country in brightly colored GLA shirts. If flight is delayed, staff will wait until students arrive. Upon arrival, students will phone parents to inform them of their safe arrival. Students will either be provided with a phone card to phone home, or use a staff member’s mobile phone. Cell phones are permitted but not encouraged.

How to Apply Need more Information to Enroll?

1

Here are several ways for you to learn more about our programs.

Visit our Website Go to www.experienceGLA.com/apply

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2

Hold a space in the program Hold a space in a program by completing the Online Application. Submit a deposit and an application fee using our secure online system (Visa or Mastercard accepted) or mail a check to Global Leadership Adventures. You may also call +1 858-771-0645 from 8am - 6pm PST to submit credit card information over the phone.

Complete the Online Application Before a final admission decision can be made, we need a completed application. After setting up your account by creating a username and password and inputting your contact information, you’ll be asked to pay the application fee and deposit. You can then move onto the short answer essay questions and self-evaluation. A completed application includes: - Application fee - Deposit - Short answer essay questions - Self-evaluation - Signed agreement forms

Our staff have been on the programs and can help you decide which program is right for you!

ATTend An Open HOuse, summer FAir, Or WebinAr Our staff, student alumni, or parents will be at these presentations to share their experiences and answer questions. Go to www.experienceGLA.com/meetup for details. To RSVP, call +1 858-771-0645 or e-mail rsvp@experienceGLA.com.

CHAT WiTH us We’re always available to answer questions on our Live Chat at www.experienceGLA.com Ask FOr prOgrAm sCHedule And deTAils E-mail info@experienceGLA.com for specific program schedules and questions.

COnneCT WiTH FOrmer And FuTure sTudenTs On FACebOOk Join a GLA Country Facebook group. We have created communities for students to interact. You’ll be able to ask questions of past participants. Check out photos and videos (high school students only): http://www.experiencegla.com/facebook speAk WiTH reFerenCes Call 1-858-771-0645 or e-mail info@experienceGLA.com to get the reference list.

Refund Policy

Part of the application process is for you to evaluate yourself as an applicant. This allows us to get to know you better in terms of how you think and your learning style. It also ensures your motivations and interests are aligned with what the program offers.

Up to five months prior to program: all but the application fee is refundable.

Four months prior: 75% of total program fee is refundable.

Three month prior: 50% of total program fee is refundable.

Two months prior: 25% of total program fee is refundable.

Less than two months prior: none of the program fee is refundable.

We review completed applications in two business days and notify students of final decisions by e-mail. If you do not have access to a computer, please contact us for an application to be e-mailed or faxed to you.

Prior to April 1, students can change sessions (dates, program, countries) at no additional fee.

After April 1, there is a $50 fee to change your session (dates, program, countries).

+ 1 858 771 0645 79 www.experienceGLA.com

PhOTO CREDITS: Carol della Croce, Kit Oates, Eve Oppenheimer, Leah Muskin-Pierret, Zao Wang, Lauren Allik, Emily Putnam, Abby Freemire, Ryan Feinstein, Brandon Grant, Carol Chan, Jan Marc Castlunger, Sadie Dix, Katherynn Deus,

Global Leadership Adventures 10509 San Diego Mission Road, Suite A San Diego, CA 92108 USA

Apply Online

www.experienceGLA.com/apply

Redmond, Alit Apriyana, XiaoLi Tan, Zhao Jie. CATALOG DESIGN AND GRAPhICS: Carol della Croce

Questions? call or e-mail us. +1 858 771 0645 | info@experienceGLA.com