Program Reviews

I went into this program hoping to explore my interests in social business practices and make an impact on the community in which I was to live. I emerged with a newfound passion for public health and the understanding that any new community I work in will teach me far more than I could ever teach it.

I found myself engaging in organic, small-scale farming and food-production, shadowing a community health worker, and teaching English at the local school--three activities that hadn't even crossed my mind before arriving in Brazil.

It wasn't an easy transition--I confronted many moments of loneliness, confusion, and boredom--but it was those challenging moments that taught me the most.

The staff are all so passionate about what they do, and it shows. If you have an issue with a home stay or apprenticeship, they are quick to fix it. Not to mention they are all down-to-earth, quirky people!

The site they chose was so perfect for me. I lived right on the beach with an amazing family (little kids!). I was able to dabble in a lot of different apprenticeships, like health, education, and environment, so I had the opportunity to experience working in many sectors.

This program was an absolutely amazing experience! I became friends with some of the most thoughtful and inspiring people I had ever encountered and now have a supportive network of friends from all over the United States. My year in Ecuador was the best experience I could have had after high school, but it was also hands down the most difficult--homesickness, experiencing a different culture and economic setting first-hand, and watching the struggles of my community all made it a difficult year. However, working as an English teacher at an elementary school and at a nature preserve increased my confidence, helped me to become independent and take initiative. I was able to completely immerse myself in Ecuadorian life, become fluent in Spanish (and learn a little Kichwa too). I think about the things I learned in my community, from my host family, and at my apprenticeship daily, and I feel that this experience not only prepared me for college but also taught me how to LIVE each day to its fullest, take chances, and have a positive attitude with regards to just about everything.

Taking this bridge year allowed to me realize so much about myself, the world, and my niche in it. Now that I am in college I realize my year in Senegal prepared me not only for the rigors of school work but also a mature understanding of my opportunity.

Global Citizen Year allowed me to meet some of the kindest and most thoughtful people I know. My apprenticeship and community were brilliant! I miss and reflect on my experiences daily. Training seminars were very informative and helpful in processing experiences while in country.

Because of my job as a teacher and tutor I realized that my interests really do lie in teaching. At the same time, I found out that I liked a lot of other things as well. It rekindled my love of learning for the sake of learning.

I loved where I got to live and the day-to-day life of living in that city. I'd wake up, drink some juice, walk 10 blocks to school, teach, have recess and chill with the other professors, teach again, and walk home for lunch. I got a hang of the public transportation, felt comfortable traveling between different cities on my own, and slowly learned how to communicate in the common tongue.

Teaching 25 little rambunctious kids is difficult and stressful, but also surprisingly rewarding. You've got to be on your toes the whole time. It's tiring. But seeing that little light bulb light up when they understand something, or when they're proud of their hard work. That's worth it.

I was able to integrate into the local community 100%. Global Citizen Year provided the guidance and support that allowed me to become proficient in two languages, gain cultural literacy and and work with village leaders and community members. The service-learning approach and long-term stay in one place are two of the most important assets of the program.

The title speaks for itself. Global Citizen Year really is an unique opportunity to experience a completely different way of life, a different culture, and learn how to speak a different language. It has impacted my college education in a way that no classroom ever could.

Global Citizen Year made me fluent in two languages, helped me discover my passion and future career path, honed my interests in preparation for college, and lead to the formation of some of the most important relationships in my life. Everyone should take a bridge year - preferably with GCY!

I was immersed in an Ecuadorian community, yet still had fantastic support from the program. Strong college-prep focus, language emphasis, and personal growth. Global Citizen Year is the best way I could have spent my bridge year.