Introduction
GLA Student Travel is a program designed for high school and college students who want to travel the world and make a positive impact on the communities they visit. The program combines adventure, cultural immersion, and service learning to create a unique and meaningful travel experience for students.
How it Works
The program offers a variety of destinations and themes, such as environmental conservation, social justice, and language immersion. Students can choose the destination and theme that aligns with their interests and goals.
During the program, students participate in service projects, cultural activities, and adventure excursions. They work alongside local community members to complete projects that address local needs, learn about the culture and history of the community, and explore the natural beauty of the region.
Destinations
GLA Student Travel offers programs in various countries, including Costa Rica, Ghana, Peru, and China. Each program has a unique focus and itinerary that allows students to explore the beauty and complexity of the destination.
For example, the Ghana program focuses on social justice and human rights, and includes visits to historical sites such as the Cape Coast Slave Castle, as well as service projects that address issues such as education and healthcare.
Themes
GLA Student Travel offers programs with various themes, such as environmental conservation, social justice, and language immersion. Each theme focuses on a particular issue or skill set, and offers students the opportunity to learn and contribute in meaningful ways.
For example, the Costa Rica program focuses on environmental conservation, and includes service projects that address issues such as reforestation and wildlife conservation, as well as language immersion activities that allow students to improve their Spanish skills.
Service Learning
Service learning is a core component of the GLA Student Travel program. Students participate in service projects that address local needs, and work alongside local community members to complete the projects.
The service projects are designed in collaboration with local partners, and are based on the needs and priorities of the community. Students learn about the issues facing the community, develop a deeper understanding of the culture and history of the region, and make a positive impact on the community through their service work.
Adventure Excursions
GLA Student Travel also includes adventure excursions that allow students to explore the natural beauty of the destination. The excursions are designed to be challenging and rewarding, and offer students the opportunity to develop leadership, teamwork, and problem solving skills.
For example, the Peru program includes a trek to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. The trek is physically challenging, but offers stunning views of the Andes mountains and the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Incas.
Accommodations and Safety
GLA Student Travel takes safety seriously, and provides students with a safe and supervised travel experience. The program includes accommodations in safe and comfortable hotels or homestays, and transportation is provided by experienced drivers and tour guides.
The program also includes a comprehensive orientation and safety training before the students depart, and students are supervised by experienced GLA staff throughout the program.