Program Reviews

This was an amazing program! I found it was the perfect balance between curriculum, service learning, and fun! I loved traveling within a group like this because it takes off the stress of having to plan for yourself, so you can really enjoy and learn about the different places you go to. It was also nice to be in a tight knit group of people my age, with two amazing co-leaders who were great mentors throughout the trip. I highly recommend taking a gap semester with ARCC. It is a great length and wonderful, unforgettable experience.

I loved going on the program and would totally do it again. I made so many new friends with memories that will last forever. I learned so much about new cultures, tried new foods, learned dances, went on awesome adventures, and had so many silly moments. I never thought I would see orangutans, make coffee, kayak through jungle waterfalls, pray at temples, hike volcanos, and learn scuba on the same trip. I now have so many stories from the other side of the world that I can remember and share and I would recommend going on this trip.

I have never been on a trip that brought so much to the table. This was truly enjoy, incredible and something I will never forget would absolutely recommend for anyone looking for community, a beautiful place to travel etc! Each country you visit is unique in its own way and you'll find yourself wishing you could stay forever. Being in a structural aspect of the program is also very fulfilling, as well. It never feels too overbearing, or like you're back at school. This trip is definitely worth considering you learn so much throughout your travels and see even more!

My experience with Pacific Islands Gap Semester was one for the books. I've made dear friends that I seemed to get more and more closer with as the trip went on. In addition to that I loved waking up knowing I was going to do something that I've never gotten the chance to do before. We've seen orangutans, swam with dolphins, had dinner with a Balinese princess, drank kava with in a remote fiji village and then proceed to have a massive dance party with the whole village. Everyday the program was throwing these exciting opportunities like these in my face and I was all for it.

This trip has been an eye opener on so many different levels. I have learned how to be a team member with lots of different people and how to adapt to my surroundings. I had the opportunity to see wild, endangered orangutans, help plant trees in the rainforest, cook national cuisines, try new fruits, swim in the beautiful bodies of water, and more. I also have new friends who I will forever remember. I feel more confident in my social skills, and more intrigued by different culture. This experience was 10/10.

I had an incredible experience with the ARCC Pacific Island Gap Semester Program! From start to finish, it was an enriching and transformative journey. The program’s focus on community service, cultural immersion, and environmental conservation allowed me to connect deeply with the local culture and the natural beauty of the Pacific Islands.

The trip was perfectly structured, balancing meaningful volunteer work with adventure and exploration. Whether it was restoring coral reefs, working with local communities, or hiking through lush jungles, I felt like I was truly making a positive impact. Hadley and Katherine were experienced, supportive, and fostered a safe and inclusive environment for personal growth as the trip leaders.

One of the highlights for me was the opportunity to learn about the indigenous cultures and histories of the islands we visited. The hands-on experience, coupled with the opportunity to bond with fellow participants, created lasting friendships and memories. I gained valuable skills in teamwork, leadership, and environmental stewardship that will stay with me for years to come.

If you’re looking for an adventurous, meaningful gap year program that combines service, culture, and nature, I highly recommend the ARCC Pacific Island Gap Semester!

This program was very fun and educational. The instructors were amazing and made the expirence for me. I felt well supported by both the instructors and students. All the activities felt well planned and fun to do with a group. All of the partners we met were amazing, especially Peter, Nai and Neffee. Daraja was my favorite part of the whole trip. I would have loved to be there for a few more days. I feel much more educated about east africa after this trip. Overall the program was a lot of fun and I would recommend to another student.

Great trip! Definitely had a lot of unique experiences that would never be available as a solo traveler/typical tourist. Program was structured well and the instructors were great. Great cultural study aspect. Working with in-country partners and spending time at less touristy places definitely gave the insider feel. Perfect safari experience in Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Absolutely loved ZIWA, Daraja academy, and the meserani snake park. Definitely not a lot of space for independence, so keep that in mind. Would definitely recommend.

The trip was so so awesome!!! I have learned so much and made so many new connections with people. Lifelong friendships and bonds have been made. Got my first tattoo which was a huge highlight, all in all just an amazing experience and highly recommend for someone who is looking to go out of their comfort zone and travel!! The food has also been such a plus as well. :) The safari was also life changing, it was so amazing to see the animals up close, and animals that ive only ever seen in photos, it was just a really cool experience. :)

East Africa was amazing! I had such a great experience and met some of the most amazing people. The ARCC instructors were also great and so much fun! I would definitely do it again. :) The stays were very interesting, and I learned a lot about the Masai people. I also discovered my new favorite food on this trip (chapati). What a great trip! I love it so much, and I definitely recommend ARCC if you're thinking of taking a gap year!