Kimberly James comes to The Experiment in International Living with over 10 years of admissions and youth development experience, having worked in independent schools and nonprofits.
Prior to joining the Experiment staff, she led as a Group Leader in 2016 and 2017 on the Germany: Contemporary Politics and the European Union and Ireland: Irish Culture and Youth Empowerment programs.
Kimberly first discovered her love for traveling during a month-long exchange and homestay program to Germany while in high school. She then spent three and a half years of her undergraduate studies living abroad in Germany, England, Italy, India, Thailand, China, and Japan. Kimberly has a B.A. in Intercultural Education from Global College, Long Island University.
What is your favorite travel memory?
There are many great memories. I really enjoy exploring a new culture and experiencing life as the locals do.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
I have learned a lot from the students I’ve traveled with. I enjoy seeing how each program is different because the students have an opportunity to take leadership roles within the program.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
I have enjoyed hearing about the friendships our students have made on program. It’s great to hear when students are still connected with their homestay families or friends that they’ve made in country.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
The diversity of our students. Our students come from all across the country and also from around the world. I am proud of the financial aid we’re able to award to students to allow students who otherwise wouldn’t be able to travel.
It’s empowering to bring together young people from different backgrounds to learn about a new culture while also learning about themselves.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
The mission for cross-cultural understanding that we were founded on 85 years ago is still at the core of the work that we do today.
