What inspired you to work for Global Citizen Adventure Corps?
Global Citizen Adventure Corps (GCAC) offers students a unique opportunity to step outside their home zip codes, immerse themselves in new cultures, and gain valuable life experiences that go beyond the confines of the classroom.
GCAC is especially dedicated to providing global service-learning opportunities to Title I high school and first-generation college students in the rural South. As a longtime educator in West Tennessee, I’ve seen the difference these opportunities can make in the lives of our youth. I can’t imagine working on any other team!
Building a School Cafeteria with Bethel University students in Peru.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
Traveling opens your eyes to the undeniable truth that good people are everywhere. Whether navigating bustling city streets or exploring remote villages, you'll encounter kindness, generosity, and hospitality. From strangers offering directions to the genuine friendships formed with fellow travelers, each interaction serves as a reminder of the goodness that exists in humanity. So, do not be afraid! Get out there!!!
What makes Global Citizen Adventure Corps special?
Global Citizen Adventure Corps (GCAC) provides college credit and scholarships for service-learning and travel opportunities to high school and university students in rural communities, bringing their voices and personal experiences to global issues. GCAC participants become leaders who also bring a global perspective back to their home communities, resulting in, exponential change for all people, places, and the planet.
Everyone has a role to play in creating a better world; GCAC programs are open to all students and community members worldwide. However, we primarily serve rural students from economically challenged communities in the Mid-South and Ohio Valley regions, and that makes us very unique!
Volunteering on an organic vegetable farm in Cuba.
Why should someone choose Global Citizen Adventure Corps over competitors?
Our Global Service-Learning and Citizenship program includes a self-paced, online course designed to impart knowledge of local, national, and/or global issues; and illuminate the interconnectedness and interdependency of the global community. Participants are also introduced to the history and culture of the host community, concepts of global citizenship, and sustainable travel practices. Transferrable college credit is available for both high school and university students through our partners in education at Bethel University!
What is your organization's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
The mission of Global Citizen Adventure Corps is to cultivate global citizen leaders through education, travel, and service opportunities, increasing mutual respect for people, places, and the planet. In an effort to achieve this goal, we traveled with over 80 students in 2023 and awarded over $8600 in scholarships to students with demonstrated financial need.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
We agree with the Oxfam Organization’s definition of a global citizen: “A global citizen is aware of, and understands, the wider world and their place in it.” We also believe a global citizen takes an active role in their community and works with others to make the world more equal and sustainable. So, we hope that students return from our programs knowing that they can make a difference!
Painting a mural at an animal rescue center in Costa Rica.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures is important for several reasons:
- Experiencing different cultures exposes individuals to new ways of thinking, living, and problem-solving. It broadens their perspectives and helps them see the world from different angles.
- Traveling abroad fosters cultural awareness and sensitivity. It helps people understand and appreciate diversity, reducing stereotypes and promoting empathy towards others.
- Travel challenges individuals to step outside their comfort zones, encouraging personal growth and self-discovery. It can build confidence, independence, and resilience.
- Traveling provides unique learning opportunities that cannot be gained from books or classrooms. It allows people to learn about history, art, cuisine, language, and customs firsthand.
- Meeting people from different backgrounds fosters connections and friendships across cultures. These connections can be enriching personally and professionally.
- In an increasingly interconnected world, understanding different cultures is crucial for effective communication and collaboration on a global scale.
- Traveling often leads people to appreciate their own culture and home country more deeply, as they gain a comparative perspective.
Overall, traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures promotes tolerance, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the world we live in. It can be a transformative and enriching experience for individuals and society as a whole.
Beach clean up with Bethel University students.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel refers to travel experiences that go beyond mere sightseeing or leisure. It involves engaging with a destination in a way that is purposeful, impactful, and personally or professionally enriching.
In addition, I think that meaningful travel is responsible travel. It emphasizes responsible travel practices that minimize negative impacts on the environment and local communities. This includes supporting local businesses, respecting cultural norms, and practicing environmental stewardship.
Authentic experiences are also an important component of traveling with purpose. This might involve staying in locally-owned accommodations, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and engaging in activities that provide genuine insights into the destination.
Cultural immersion and connection are also key parts of the meaningful travel experience. This could include learning the language, trying local cuisine, participating in cultural ceremonies or festivals, and interacting with locals and fellow travelers.
In essence, meaningful travel is about engaging with the world in a thoughtful and intentional manner, seeking to both understand and contribute to the places visited while gaining personal enrichment and growth from the experience.
