ARCC Gap Review

I would recommend this program for students who are eager to learn. The program is more educational, with some experiential learning integrated in. It is also very much on the expensive side, and the breakdown of our budget given to us was shocking, compared to the amount we payed. There is no sense of freedom or responsibility, which is not well communicated from the start. The experiences however are quite unique due to the programs in-country partnerships. There wasn’t a lot of transparency during my interview process, which left me feeling a little blindsided and unprepared for parts of the program. Logistically, the rules and procedures make sense for middle school or high schoolers - not college age students on a gap year. The instructors also definitely impact the quality of the program. For example, having an instructor who is more focused on their priorities rather than the wants/needs of the group. Another aspect that is particularly challenging is not being able to have your phone for the first month, due to “group bonding” purposes. After about week 7, the group dynamic really separates because people are tired of talking to the same group of 10 people for 2 months. If you’re looking for an opportunity to travel and experience the world, I would definitely recommend researching and doing it on your own. If you’re looking for an educational program with rules restrictions, then this program is for you.