WorldStrides Global Immersion Programs (Undergraduate)

Global immersion programs

FORGING NEW PATHS FOR FUTURE LEADERS Discover global learning firsthand through immersive programs customized to your curriculum.

WORLDSTRIDES.COM/HIGHERED

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Explore culture firsthand

Transformative hands-on learning through global exploration We are proud to collaborate with our university partners to deliver life-changing global experiences. Through our immersive programs, students gain hands-on experience, cultivate cultural awareness, and develop skills for the real world.

We aim to elevate learning outcomes for every program by bringing your core curriculum to life.

Our global reach and relationships empower us to deliver superior academic-focused programming for a truly global perspective.

Each program is backed by unparalleled risk management and logistical support to deliver true peace of mind.

With hands-on learning, students achieve a deeper understanding of the world around them needed to thrive in an interconnected society.

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Experiential learning is at the heart of what we do HANDS-ON ENGAGEMENTS TO MEET YOUR CURRICULUM GOALS Our mission is to partner with faculty to create enriching and educational experiences abroad. By incorporating your curriculum goals, we source one-of-a-kind opportunities that better prepare your students for future careers by exposing them to international culture, businesses, and academic engagements.

To do this, we pair your team with one of our regionally-focused Experiential Learning Specialists based on the content and goals of your program. Our Global Experiences team has spent years building networks of industry experts and dynamic organizations that can show your students real-world applications of their studies and immerse them in relevant, interactive projects.

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We can incorporate any number of the following academic and cultural experiences to put your students face-to-face with real people and issues:

Core Engagements: •

Government agency

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Company visit

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Plant and factory tour

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Guided city immersion

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University visit

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Panel discussion

Social Responsibility: •

NGO visit

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Service-learning project

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Social impact experience Sustainability project

Specialized Experiences: •

Strategy challenge

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Customized projects

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Guest lecture

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Cohort-building exercise Cooking class

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Local market immersion

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Our blueprint for success starts with a winning strategy Our programs are intentionally crafted with an approach that results in richer academic success. We carefully analyze your strategic goals for the course and collaborate with you to design a program that meets your aspirations with a variety of in-country engagements for the most impactful experience.

Key program considerations that factor into our planning strategies:

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Program goals & learning outcomes

Experiential engagements

Curriculum alignment

Leadership & career readiness

Global competency & cultural awareness

Cross-cultural exchange

Thematic approach focused on key industries

Social impact

Meet Brandon Victoria Youngman ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT, CUSTOM PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT Brandon brings over a decade of experience in higher education, with a strong focus on international education, student engagement, and faculty-led program development. She currently leads a team dedicated to designing and implementing customized faculty-led programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. Throughout her career, Brandon has led student and faculty groups abroad, traveling all over the world and cultivating global learning opportunities.

Below, Brandon shares her thoughts on her approach to program design:

"For me, developing a faculty-led program abroad for undergraduate students is all about creating meaningful, accessible, and memorable experiences that meet students where they are while helping them grow into who they want to become."

Q: What is your approach to intentional program design?

Q: How do you design programs that align to a university's unique academic and institutional goals?

A: I always start with listening. Every partner has a unique vision for what they want their students to get out of an experience abroad, and our job is to help bring that vision to life in a thoughtful and practical way. I focus on building programs that are intentional from day one—where each element, whether academic, cultural, or logistical, is designed to support student learning and engagement. It is also important to build flexibility into a program so it can evolve with changing goals or student needs.

A: It is a collaborative process. I work closely with partners to understand their priorities—which outcomes matter most, what kind of experiences they want students to have, and where they may need support.

From there, we find creative ways to align those goals with their budget and resources. Whether it’s adjusting the length of a program, integrating local partners, or finding alternative housing options, I help identify solutions that keep the program high-quality, sustainable, and true to their original vision.

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Wherever your imagination takes you, we'll get you there We have the global reach and international relationships to power your programs with the best in applied learning.

Networks in

120+ countries

THE AMERICAS

EUROPE

Local staff in

50+ international cities

Partnerships with

100+ AFRICA | MIDDLE EAST

ASIA PACIFIC

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host universities

Every program is yours and yours alone Our approach to program development is personal and comprehensive. We’ll collaborate with you to create an experience that fits specific student profiles, faculty needs, budget requirements, and operational timelines.

Any degree level or group size

Program format, length, and travel dates

Site selection: single or multi-city destinations

Unique & exclusive engagements, both academic & cultural

Navigating budgets & administrative regulations

Accommodations to meet your needs

Meals to fit any occasion

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Our team is passionate about supporting you at every turn From our inception, we have set ourselves apart through our reputation for extraordinary customer care. You’ll work with a dedicated in-house expert to support your team through the entire program process, from recruiting and planning to managing and confirming all program logistics.

Students from the University of North Texas discover the rich culture and traditions of Japan.

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Logistics management 360° We’re with you every step of the way, leaving no stone unturned.

BEFORE Dedicated Account Manager Booking of travel arrangements: accommodations to meals and everything in between

Use our travel app to have your program at your fingertips •

View program itinerary and logistics documents

Venue outreach for meetings, classroom space, and special events

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Include your own university documents

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Review pre-departure information

Marketing and recruitment support

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Access emergency contact info

Planning of academic, cultural, and social engagements that deliver immersive experiences

Registration, payment, and emergency contact data collection Instant visa-needs evaluation Pre-departure orientation and materials Management of international group air booking Assistance with additional services, like extended hotel stays and private transfers

DURING Monitoring of all group flights On-the-ground transport and transfers Local guides 24/7 emergency support and English-speaking support on-site Travel app with real-time updates and group messaging

AFTER Monitoring departure flights on your journey home Gather documented feedback on every program aspect Formal post-program check-in Incident follow-up when necessary Financial audit to reconcile program expenses Proactive planning to develop your next program

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Our integrated risk management is best in class From a dedicated crisis management team to our partnership with Exlog Global, a risk assessment and support agency—our capacity for emergency support and contingency options is unmatched.

Included with every program 24/7 EMERGENCY SUPPORT Around-the-clock access to highly trained, bilingual in-country support and to WorldAssist, our 24/7 emergency response command center.

Plus, all travelers have access to Doctors on Call through our exclusive relationship with The George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates. Telehealth consultation with a mental health professional is also available through our relationship with AXA Behavioral Health.

ENTRY REQUIREMENT SUPPORT Assessment of your group’s visa needs, personalized toolkit for participants, and supporting documentation for WorldStrides services.

For the most up-to-date visa requirements, visit the US Department of State website.

MEDICAL INSURANCE Embedded health insurance including emergency care, repatriation, emergency reunion, and trip interruption benefits.

FINANCIAL PROTECTION We have long-standing relationships with our vendors, allowing us to negotiate terms and pricing on your behalf. We offer currency exchange protection, as well as liability insurance with your university listed as an additional insured upon request.

PEACE OF MIND Partnerships with global risk advisory organizations, optional predeparture orientations, destination-specific resources with safe travel tips, and contingency planning for unforeseen interruptions.

TEAM OF EXPERTS From your Account Manager and Experiential Learning Specialist to our in-country guides, you’ll have a team dedicated to ensuring the success of your program from start to finish.

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Meet a few of our key team members:

Patrick Barker Director of Health, Safety, and Security In crises large and small, Patrick helps manage the details of our response in coordination with your university team.

Dr. Neal Sikka Medical Advisor to WorldStrides Our exclusive relationship with The George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates provides 24/7 access to medical care for all traveling participants.*

*Dr. Neal Sikka, The George Washington University Department of Emergency Medicine, and The George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates are independent medical providers. WorldStrides is not a medical service provider and its employees do not render medical care or treatment, nor does WorldStrides control the selection, training, or supervision of any medical provider.

"The program was very accommodating and we were able to make last minute changes to the itinerary to keep all activities when our incoming flights were canceled. That was very helpful and working with WorldStrides was great."

Valerie Watson | West Virginia University

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How inspiration begins Building the perfect program together, from idea to reality.

See how an itinerary draft can develop into a real-world program.

ITINERARY DRAFT

MERCY UNIVERSITY IN COLOMBIA

Tell us your focus, and we can source the right engagements to enhance the curriculum

Course Objectives: To create a travel participation with long-term positive impact across local communities in Colombia.

Day 1

Day 6

Travel

Travel to Sopetran Guided Visit to Santa Fe de Antioquia

Day 2 Cultural Immersion #1: Medellín • Guided City Tour • Local Food Tour • Comuna 13 Visit Group Dinner at Andrés Carne

Day 3 Cultural Immersion #2: Arvi Park • Cable Car Ride ' • Farmer’s Market • Zipline

Day 4

Day 7 Academic Engagement #2: Granja el Chacal Service-Learning Project at Cacao Farm Attend Local Theatre Production

Day 8 Service-Learning Project Travel to Medellín Group Farewell Dinner

Day 9 Cultural Immersion #4: Moravia Planting Project

Cultural Immersion #3: Guatapé • • •

Peñol Rock Piedra del Peñol Guided Boat Tour

Day 10 Depart for home

Day 5 Academic Engagement #1: Ruta N Botanical Garden Visit Lunch at Via Cocina

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Cherie: Can we include outdoor activities that feature the native plants of Colombia?

Account Manager: Yes! The Jardin Botanico in Medellin features over 1,200 species of fauna from the Antioquia region. Your group can also plant new seeds in Moravia, the former trash heap-turned-green oasis.

MERCY UNIVERSITY IN COLOMBIA

Mercy University in Colombia

School of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Population:

Destination: Medellín, Colombia

School of Social and Behavioral Sciences Faculty Leader:

WorldStrides Higher Education partnered with Mercy University’s School of Social and Behavioral Sciences to create a program that combines meaningful community engagement with authentic cultural immersion for a comprehensive exploration of Colombia.

Stuart Sidle

In collaboration with members of the Global Experiences team, this facultyled experience introduces students to Medellín and the surrounding Antioquia region and facilitates collaboration with local leaders, social enterprises, and grassroots changemakers.

Program Length:

Rather than participating in activities that have a short-term impact, Mercy University students contribute to initiatives that evolve over multiple years, respond to locally identified needs, and create lasting value for the community. This program stands as a model for responsible global learning.

Destination: Medellín, Colombia

10 days, 9 nights Cultural Highlights: • Immersion in Arvi Park • Exploration of Peñol Rock • Service-learning project at a local cacao farm • Moravia planting project

Some of the unique engagements students experienced Colombia offered a diverse range of experiences for the students. At a mountainside cacao farm outside Medellín, the cohort helped farmers design a more efficient way to transport cacao pods downhill, ultimately installing a zipline system. Another community engagement opportunity came from Moravia, a former landfill transformed into a green oasis. The cohort rolled up their sleeves to clear trash and plant trees, maintaining the beauty of the neighborhood.

Beyond Medellín, the students visited the nearly 500-year-old village of Santa Fe de Antioquia, allowing them to step into the past, but also into the daily lives of today’s Colombians. It was outings like this one that made the biggest impact on the cohort, as they experienced the local life and color firsthand.

“Colombia has been the first trip that has taken such an emotional toll on me—especially our trip to Guatapé. Climbing [Peñol] Rock was extremely rewarding and inspiring. Watching people of every age, background, and identity climbing the rock with their own personal motivations was so touching.”

Mercy University Student

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Intercultural communication in Japan Destination: Japan

Designed specifically for students of the University of North Texas communications program, this tour explored the foundations of intercultural communication. Academic and cultural engagements across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka were curated to deepen understanding of the social, cultural, and historical contexts that shape communication across societies.

Each destination gave these students an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and better their understanding of Japan and the world.

As one of the world’s most innovative metropolitan regions, Tokyo exposed students to a blend of tech‑driven modernity and deeply rooted tradition. They explored pop culture districts like Harajuku, known for its unique fashion and youth scene, and serene temples in Asakusa, each revealing a different layer of Japan’s identity. Later, in Osaka, the cohort explored the local food culture that has earned the city the title of Japan’s Kitchen.

And Kyoto brought the students to some of the ancient capital’s 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

University of North Texas Discipline: Communication Program Leaders: Brian Lain, Ph.D. Destination: Japan Program Length: 15 days Cultural Highlights: • • • •

Tokyo city tour Asakusa temple visit Osaka culinary tour Kyoto excursion

“It was one of the coolest experiences ever. Getting to explore around historical landmarks and learn so much about a different culture firsthand. It’s one thing to watch videos of people in Japan and another to actually be there and experience it yourself. If you have the chance to go, I highly recommend it.”

Holland McCasland | Student

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Stewarding global perspectives across the higher education communities SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID FOR OUR STUDENTS WorldStrides is dedicated to providing all students with the opportunity to broaden their worldview and become global leaders and citizens through transformational international experiences.

To support this vision, we make over $2 million in funding available each year for student travelers. Students currently registered for a university travel program can apply here: bit.ly/cp-funding

Neisa B. Scholarship: Higher Ed Traveler School: New York University Program location: Sydney, Australia

"This scholarship [will let me] pursue my lifelong learning goal of developing holistic and reciprocal connections across cultures, cuisines, and religions. It will allow me to fully engage with local communities without the constant constraint of financial uncertainty."

Genesis O.R. Scholarship: Natalie Shea Memorial School: Arizona State University Program location: Japan

“Inspired by Natalie Shea’s passion for travel, exploration, and diverse cultures, being chosen as a recipient for this scholarship has not only made my dreams of studying abroad a reality, but also reinforced the significance of education as a gift that transcends all barriers.”

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Setting a proactive tone on Student Support We are committed to ensuring that every student feels prepared, supported, and empowered throughout their journey abroad.

"After working for many years in higher education where transformative education was celebrated, it gives me great joy to work for an organization where transformative learning also encompasses the upliftment of support and inclusion initiatives. WorldStrides is committed to ensuring that our programs provide students with opportunities to discover their best selves, and it is wonderful to partner with faculty via our partnerships and our academics team to ensure that our staff and program content help them reach that journey."

Yolanda Golden | Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility

Joyce G. Scholarship: Impact scholarship winner School: Texas A&M International University Program location: Málaga, Spain

"Growing up in circumstances that made simply staying in school feel like an act of survival, I never imagined that my hardships would one day be part of the reason someone invested in my education. It is not just financial support—it is confirmation that the journey I was afraid to take is worth taking."

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Educational Travel Study Abroad Language Immersion Service-Learning Career Exploration Performing Arts Sports

Learn more about new travel opportunities for education abroad today.

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