Program Reviews

I had an amazing time traveling with GLA to participate in the Haiti Global Health Initiative. Even before we left I felt so prepared; our program coordinator had done several group skypes with me and the other families, going into detail about what to wear, how much money to bring, what to do when I land, etc.
The staff was so friendly, and all my mentors were amazing. They were young, fun and got to know every one of us over the course of the 10 days.
The adventures themselves were great. Hiking up to the Citadel was quite the workout, but almost went quickly as we were entertained by the locals who came with us on the way up. Beach day was also one of my favorite days, where my new friends and I got to relax on the soft sands and swim at one of Haiti's Caribbean beaches.
The service work I got to do in Haiti was the most rewarding part of the entire trip. Building a school beside the locals and their children was amazing. By the end of our time there we had made true friends, despite the language barrier. The pop-up clinics were also very enjoyable because again we got to interact with locals while asking about their medical history and taking their temperature, which some had never done before.
The only reason I didn't give the program a 10/10 is because the food gets a bit repetitive. The first few nights it tastes delicious, but it is the same few foods nearly every night (excluding pizza night, the last night there). There also just isn't a lot of food available, so I highly recommend bringing a lot of snacks.
Overall though, I had an incredible experience. The trip was beyond what I could ever. imagine, and if I could I would definitely go back.

My summer volunteer work in South Africa was the best two weeks of my life. I learned so much about the conservation of black rhinos and elephants, and what I can do to help at home. I also got to meet really cool people from around the world. Our counselors were outstanding and I felt so at home and safe the entire trip. The food was amazing and our sleeping arrangments were so cool I really felt like I was a part of the bush yet still secure in my room the entire time. Our guides on the trip were super educated and had been in Africa their entire life basically so every question that was asked was, for the most part, answered with ease. The trip was a perfect mixture of service, education, and free time. I recommend everybody should go on a trip like this once in their life.

My experience is something I wouldn't want to trade for the world. I experienced the best moments where I was able to become carefree and happy. It wasn't just fun through doing fun activites like swimming or traveling, but I made the most of my time by learning and serving others. Although it was incredible meeting all sorts of people from all over. I'm from New Jersey and I was able to meet people from the California, China, and much more. Creating friendships that although may be limited transcend the little island that we resided. Learning from experiences that teach me to become happy, selfless, and better. To this day I'm still inspired and remincise about those days when worry was gone and freedom to express was very much a thing that wasne't judge. I still dream about swimming in the crystal ocean and the dark caves among the fish.

I could say endlessly good things about this program! As a first time GLA traveler, I did not know what to expect when I first signed up for the program, but I can honestly say that my global perspective has been changed completely. The staff were incredible and I met some of the most genuine and kind individuals, all with the same sense of adventure. Being able to interact with a completely different culture along with participating in a variety of other activities was so exciting and truly made me value every experience that I had. Each day, from zip-lining to hot springs to the volunteer work at the primary school, left us with new lessons and leadership abilities that I still apply to daily life back home. Because I loved my experience on this GLA trip so much, I even signed up to attend another trip next summer!

Thank you for providing a wonderful experience for the students. I loved that the culture of GLA is real cultural exchange -- not wealthy Americans showering help on poorer communities -- but learning on both sides. The housing and food were excellent. I at first thought the cost was high, but when you consider the entirety of the experience, which included a weekend away in a hotel, all of the meals and excoursions, it actually was a very fair price. We will look into future trips in summers to come. Thank you!

I can't say enough wonderful things about Global Leadership Adventures, the program, staff communication and service was very impressive. They were very informative about all aspects involved to send a child overseas to protect students safety and well being. I had never sent my child out of the country before and was very nervous , concerned and cautious with planning and the details. GLA staff was wonderful with provide information, documentation and answering questions in a timely manner. As a result my daughters trip was a huge success. She came back a changed girl with a different outlook on gratitude, appreciation and responsibilities. She loved the staff who made her feel at home and built wonderful friendships within the Guatemala country and with GLA students and staff. If you are considering a trip with GLA I would highly recommend the wonderful learning experience. It is an opportunity for teens to grow, learn and experience the unknown.

Hi! My daughter has gone on 3 absolutely amazing GLA trips! She has had so many beneficial experiences! Each trip she has gone on I have felt so safe with her leaving! The communication and help I received from the GLA staff made such a difference. I had many questions the first trip she went on and they were always there to answer them! One of the best parts was seeing the blog of what they were up to each day! Coming back she had so many amazing stories to tell! I completely recommend GLA!!!

Hi all! I am a Global Leadership Adventures Alumni and I had an amazing time in Peru, Ghana and Thailand with GLA! I really recommend GLA! The housing experience was great! GLA Peru rented out a hotel in Cusco, for both the 2 week and the 3 week groups. In Ghana we all stayed in a house together and in Thailand we also had a hotel! I felt very safe there! I had never been to Peru, Ghana or Thailand, so I felt that by being there I grew, a lot! I understood much of their culture and what their lifestyles are like. The program staff were very supportive! I felt that I was able to talk to them about whatever I needed, or if I was frustrated with other students! Overall I recommend GLA to all High School age students

This past summer I was fortunate enough to embark on a life changing journey to Costa Rica where I spent 2 weeks living in the rainforest doing service work. This trip taught me so much about myself and about what I want to do with my life. Global Leadership Adventures plays a big role in the impact my service trip had on me. From the moment I stepped off the plane in Costa Rica, GLA’s staff was there to greet me and they continued being incredible throughout the two weeks! After returning home from my Costa Rica trip, I have become more outgoing and stepped outside of my comfort zone so much! One tip I have for future GLA changemakers is to just let go and live in the moment. I would definitely recommend GLA to anyone who is passionate about giving back and being the change!

My 16 year old daughter traveled to Guatemala with Global Leadership Adventures in the summer of 2017. The experience was life-changing. Being immersed in a Spanish speaking culture teaching children English offered the perfect balance of challenge and fun. Grace learned so much about herself, leadership and the challenges & blessings of education. She was able to compare & contrast Education system in the US with that of a small, impoverished town in Guatemala, seeing the beauty and brokenness in both systems. Grace came home more compassionate, inspired to create change in her own community and to be more courageous in her own life to help her grow. This personal growth will allow her to have more to offer those she serves & works side by side with on her next Global Leadership trip in summer 2019.