Location:

Washington, United States

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Fall Semester, Spring Semester, Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

Global Routes is a pioneer in the world of value-driven, experiential-based, international programming. Since 1967, we have partnered with over 10,000 volunteers throughout Africa, Asia, Central and South America. We believe that an authentic, fun and impactful program abroad is one that is directed by service, deepened through immersion, broadened with adventure and contextualized by leadership. We offer high school summer programs (2-5 weeks), gap year/college semester programs (12 weeks), and custom programs (tailored duration and destinations). Our mission: As peoples of the world become increasingly interdependent we must all recognize that we live in a global community. The future of this community depends upon our own self-knowledge as well as upon mutual understanding and respect among diverse cultures. Global Routes deepens these roots of our shared community as we foster personal and international development. By giving North American youth and their hosts the opportunity to push past stereotypes and misconceptions by participating in community service work together, building strong relationships, and fostering self-understanding, we hope to help our global community to flourish.

Three-Part Program Model All programs and placements follow a similar experiential model. Orientation: The journey begins in your international destination, where you are welcomed by the sights, sounds and flavors of its natural and cultural wonders. Excursions to rainforests, festivals or ancient ruins, apprenticeships with artisans, language workshops and trainings led by program staff and local experts guide a hands-on orientation to your host country’s customs, traditions and environment. The skills, knowledge and friendships that you develop with your peers and supervisors create an exciting and supportive foundation for your community service project and homestay ahead. Community Service & Homestay: Living and volunteering in a rural village is the cornerstone and highlight of your program with Global Routes. Meaningful, well-designed service learning projects benefit your community while opening a gateway through which trust, understanding and lasting connections are formed. Hang up your traveling shoes and step into the rhythms of daily life in your community: play an afternoon game of soccer with local youth, work alongside the village school teacher, prepare dinner with your host mother and discover home in another part of the world. Adventure Travel: Places of world-renowned beauty and adventure create the backdrop for your final days of celebration and reflection. Global Routes works closely with professional guides to organize activities such as: white water rafting, snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, wildlife safaris and traditional drumming or dance workshops. At the seeming edge of the world you soak up days of sun, adventure and relaxation while celebrating your great contributions and discoveries.

Finding connection in another part of the world is one of the most rewarding outcomes of the entire Global Routes experience. Rising above differences in culture, language or resource, together we build schools, plant gardens, teach games and become a community.