How did you get involved with Global Works?
I discovered Global Works when I was finishing my Master’s degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, and I was immediately impressed by their dynamic itineraries offering community service, cultural exchange, language immersion, and adventure activities. I started as a trip leader in Costa Rica and love the transformative nature of these programs!
Global Works group getting ready to catch waves in Costa Rica!
What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?
The most fulfilling aspect is having the opportunity to facilitate experiential learning all over the world. The moment when a participant lights up from learning something new, trying an unknown food, or connecting with a local community member is priceless.
What is your favorite part of living and working in Costa Rica?
I love the culture, natural beauty, and friendliness of the Costa Rican people. I’ll never tire of waking up in the morning to the sounds of Howler Monkeys or watching the sun set over Arenal Volcano in the afternoon. However, my favorite part of living and working in Costa Rica is the opportunity that it affords me to build deeper relationships with the communities where we collaborate on sustainable development projects. It’s special to be able to celebrate together and watch the kids grow up into adults.
Celebrating a job well done rebuilding homes in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria!
How should students prepare for a Global Works trip?
The best way to prepare for a Global Works trip is to use the resources we provide on each enrolled student’s personalized page. It provides everything you need to know from what to pack to suggested books and movies, assisting in the mental, emotional, and physical preparation for the experience.
Who would be the most successful type of Global Works participant?
Global Works participants are curious, open-minded, adventurous, and socially conscious. There isn’t ONE type of Global Works participant; they represent a unique mix of backgrounds, hopes, goals, and demographics.
One of the common challenges faced by participants when undertaking a program abroad is coping with culture shock. How does your organization assist?
Trip leaders are trained and skilled in supporting students through challenges that arise on a trip. Through activities, one-on-one check-ins, and group games, the leaders create a safe learning environment where participants can challenge themself and debrief emotions and experiences.
What do you feel is your most exciting program?
It’s impossible to choose one program! Each trip offers unique experiences and meaningful connections. If I had to choose one in this moment, I’d pick our New Zealand & Fiji program! It is full of adventure (surfing, kayaking, hiking, black water rafting, snorkeling, and more!) and impactful service (building a kindergarten, working with the endangered kiwi birds, and teaching kids).
How have you seen participants benefit from their time with Global Works?
Participants come back with increased confidence, a more worldly perspective, appreciation for their privilege, and are inspired to bring what they learned abroad to their own community. Additionally, participants on language immersion programs make lifelong connections with their homestay families and reach a new level of fluency in the target language.
Exploring the cloud forest that borders our homestay community. The families packed a picnic and together we hiked through the breathtaking jungle!
Why should future participants be excited to get involved with Global Works?
It’s the ultimate way to spend your summer and get out into the world. The trips are loaded with adventure activities, fun cultural exchange, meaningful community service, and immersive language opportunities!
What advice would you give to your pre-travel self?
Go for it. Travel slow. The most important connections and greatest memories happen when we least expect it. Be open, but aware. Learn at least some basic words in the local language, because it will go a long way. Have fun and laugh. Laughter is universal.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel is thoughtful and intentional travel. It’s a transformative experience that challenges one's own ideas and beliefs and provides a platform for reflection, connection, and dialogue. It is the type of travel that allows you to experience the world through the eyes of the locals and return home with new perspectives.
