Global Citizen Adventure Corps

When we walked up to the top of Mt. Pilatus, I got to look down and see the landscape; it all looked so small and all of a sudden I felt so small and, in a way, unimportant. But the more I sat and looked around, the more I realized that I’m not unimportant because I am the most important person to myself. I think that other people should realize what an investment the GCAC program is, it’s an experience that will not soon be forgotten. I will use the things i’ve learned on this trip for the rest of my life and i’m so grateful for that. I think that global citizenship is an investment because not only is it an amazing opportunity but it can open so many new doors that we’re not even visible before. I think people should give trips by GCAC a try even if traveling is a big fear or if it does not seem feasible. If they cannot be a part of the trips they should try to learn about how helpful the idea of global citizenship is.

One amazing memory I’ve experienced was the boat ride in Paris. I got to see the Eiffel Tower and other amazing things. This is just one experience I’ll never forget. This whole trip has helped me to grow and connect.

One of the most unforgettable highlights of my trip to Europe was soaking in the breathtaking views from the Swiss Alps. Experiencing glaciers and snow in July was nothing short of mesmerizing, and it's a moment I'll always cherish.

An amazing memory I had on this trip was being able to interact with different people around the world and obviously the scenery. I may never be able to see those people again but I was intrigued to hear their stories as to why they are in Europe today. Others need to know about GCAC is that they offer something nobody else can do for you. The opportunities and experiences that come along with GCAC is something I will cherish forever. One reason I think this is true is because you learn so much with GCAC than you would just going with family . For instance in London I learned a cat was almost elected prime minister, in Paris photographs don’t do justice as to how big and beautiful the Eiffel Tower really is, and in Switzerland they have the 3rd highest mountain in the world and it usually snows all year around on that mountain. Go on a trip with GCAC you will not regret it. You will do so much in a short amount of days but it is all so worth it. I saw sides of the Palace of Versailles that would take people days to see and I saw it all in one day and I am truly grateful to have to done it with all my new friends and of course the chaperones

This trip was the highlight of my travel experiences because of the depth of experiences including art, history, religion, music and dance. The very personal connections GCAC has with the most prominent and talented artists in Salvador de Bahia. We saw the most famous Samba-Reggae Group, Olodum, up close and personal. Our opportunity to drum with and perform with Yaya Muxima allowed us to contribute to this group that organizes the community and supports women and children in what was once a slum area and now visited by artists and intellectuals. These include Jimmy Cliff, Paul Simon, and Michael Jackson. The group of women was intergenerational and contributed to our sense of joy and belonging. The African Dance lesson was magical and brought me back to classes I took many years ago. The leaders were communicative, knowledgeable beyond expectation, and responsive to the needs of the group.

Teaching English in Colombia was more than a trip—it was a heartwarming, life-changing experience. Through Bethel University Global Studies and GCAC, I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Colegio Americano, our sister school in Colombia, and help teach English to local students. But what made it truly special was realizing we weren’t just teaching—we were changing lives, and they were changing ours. Every day in the classroom was filled with laughter, curiosity, and connection. The students' eyes would light up when they learned a new word, and their excitement to share their own language with us was unforgettable. They were just as eager to teach us Spanish as we were to teach them English. The bond we built went beyond lessons—it felt like a family. One of the most heartwarming moments was when a student I’d been helping all week proudly stood up to read in English in front of the class. You could see the pride in their smile, and I’ll never forget that. Another one of my favorite memories is when one of the students asked to salsa with me at the end of class, it was such a sweet experience and an experience I could never trade for anything. Bethel University Global Studies and GCAC created a space for something truly meaningful—if you get the chance, take it. It will change you in the best way.

This trip was the most amazing trip of my life. The GCAC group was so welcoming and I have an amazing new family now. We got to emerse ourselves in their rich history and learn one on one with the people and their culture. We explored the religious aspects of Salvador as well as the music and multiple different styles of Samba. We learned their history through museums, music, dancing, and the amazing people and teachers we met. GCAC makes sure we are learning and to make sure it is something everyone will enjoy. It is a deep dive into what makes Salvador, Salvador. I got once in a lifetime fulfillment and experiences through this trip and lessons I will never forget!

I cannot recommend GCAC highly enough! Planning a trip to Cuba felt daunting, given all the potential challenges, but the team at GCAC turned my worries into excitement. Their extensive knowledge and well-established relationships made the entire journey feel effortless and enjoyable. From start to finish, they took care of every detail, allowing me to immerse myself fully in the experience. I’ve shared my wonderful experience with countless friends and family, encouraging them to consider planning their next adventure abroad with GCAC. They truly made my trip unforgettable!

GCAC provides condensed programs that are easy to schedule with a perfect balance of hands-on volunteering, deeply meaningful cultural immersion, and delightfully curated excursions. The small group size and highly experienced leaders and local guides make for a trip that doesn't feel rushed or crowded. My trip was packed with enrichment in arts, culture, history, local life, food, and many opportunities to make local connections. Could not have asked for a better experience!

The sights and locations were plentiful and enlightening. The addition of guides to further our knowledge were so very enriching. Our team leader—Stacie—was very alert to our needs. As a 78 year old, she made important, spontaneous decisions for the older crowd.

The perseverance of the Cuban people is made visible in the parade of classic cars continuing to serve as transport to wide-eyed visitors too accustomed to their throw-away worlds. In a matter of days this program introduces learners to the beauty and harsh realities currently evident on the streets. With opportunities to engage in long conversations with families who welcome you into their homes, you leave a country known for beaches, music, rum and cigars with an even greater appreciation for its people. Ag, art, music, and history lovers be forewarned - you’ll go for your interests and leave with bags and hearts full to overflowing!

Cuba has long been on my short list of travel destinations. GCAC allowed me to not just go to Cuba, but to truly experience Cuba. From marveling at the past and present mystique of Havana on an extraordinary guided walking tour to getting my hands in the dirt and enjoying a sumptuous farm-to-table feast at an organic farm in Vinales, the days were filled with historical information, meaningful interactions, incredible sights and extraordinary people. I cannot imagine a better trip to one of the most beautiful and interesting places in our hemisphere.

I’ve been traveling with this group quite a bit and it never ceases to amaze me in the memories that can be made. Visiting spots such as the Louvre, Versailles, Normandy, Notre Dame, the Effie tower, and a dash of Disney and more made the week worth every moment. Getting to learn while seeing the sights make it even better!

We, my wife and I truly had a wonderful time in Paris and the other locations featured in the GCAC France trip. I rate the experience as unforgerable. Loved the trip to Normandy and we were filled with emotion as we toured the American cemetery at Normandy.

My husband and I traveled to Paris as community members with Bethel University and GCAC in March, 2025. Our travel, accommodations, activities and local sightseeing were all arranged in advance. The excellent professors and tour guides made French history and culture come alive in this beautiful city! I highly recommend traveling with GCAC!!

The trip to Cuba was life changing. Meeting with locals and getting to know them gave them a prominent place in my heart that will last the rest of my life. In addition, the details of every piece of the trip were impeccably planned and executed which served to bring the group into a cohesive, friends-for-life relationship. I can’t imagine a more thoroughly enjoyable experience at any price, but especially at the very affordable cost of this one! I am so thankful for the opportunity to participate in this trip with the greatest leaders and co-travelers one can imagine. For every person who might read this review - do yourself a favor!

Setting off to Guatemala I knew they lacked the funds America has. But being there and meeting families I saw how much they live without, yet still have so much happiness and love to give towards one another and outsiders. Their connection within runs much deeper than most America families; great grandparents, aunts and uncles, brother and sisters, husbands and wives, and cousins all living under one household not because it is just how they are able to survive such a poor economy. But, because their heritage is such an important factor to their lives. Seeing moms and daughters making art on clothes and blankets from the methods taught by their mothers before them with love and respect for their history was truly an eye opening experience.

After previously traveling to Honduras, I decided that I would also like to serve in Guatemala. During this trip I learned so many things. I loved the experience, the culture, the people, the ones I traveled with, and just being able to give to others. I believe that I have been called help those in need. I am blessed enough to be able to help those in need so why would I not? And in the end, I get so much more from them than they get from me. I am blessed and honored to be able to participate in these trip and I hope I can go on many more in the future. I believe the biggest blessing from this trip was going with my mom. She has been there for all of my firsts so I was blessed to be able to see her first time out of the country.

It is amazing to realize the things we take for granted because it is understood or so easily accessible to us, as American citizens, such as healthcare, hot water, safe water to drink, just flushing the commode is even a commodity if they are even lucky enough to have one. Heath care is something we just take for granted because it is something we have done and just know to do. In other parts of the world, this is not something that is taught. The importance of having hot water to be clean. The importance of brushing your teeth. Having a place, a center or clinic, to go to and learn about how important it is to take the right medications and see the doctor regularly for newborns. The people are always happy, smiling, inviting, and willing to talk no matter what their situation is. They appreciate any help that we as GCAC can give. They are also very curious about our culture and our knowledge on many different things. GCAC does an amazing outreach. A service that provides help to many different people in many different areas of the world. It is an eye-opening experience to be on a trip with GCAC that I feel many would love to take. It isn’t all work and no play but it is a lot of work with you reaping benefits from it as well. I think in many cases that the traveler will gain more than the recipient. To experience the real thing of helping people that need something a simple as a water filtration system from two 5 gallon buckets or make an herb garden from recycling jugs or just painting a wall that they need painted, something so easy that does not seem like a lot to you can mean the world to someone else. You learn so much about other cultures and ways of life in those cultures that you will appreciate where you live and how to improve their situations. GCAC is an outreach that is absolutely amazing in the things that they do and provide in the places they go to. You will have a great experience helping out the world and memories you will remember forever.

This was the first trip to be held both in Europe and longer than 7 days. I spent 10 days moving around various parts of the country, exploring the cities, seeing all the landmarks, etc. With crossing this milestone, this trip has made an impact on my life.

This week was a splended time. We spent the week doing things such as serving the community, hanging out with the kids, connecting with all the other members on the trip with me, etc. It was the best 7 days I have been involved in so far.

I had the pleasure of traveling to Costa Rica as a co-leader with GCAC and a group of students from my high school. The opportunities that this experience provided for myself and my students were second to none. While we all enjoyed the excursions and the touristy aspects of the trip, the relationships we built with locals and the hard work we put in while volunteering at Wild Sun was by far our favorite part. Not once during the trip did any of the students get upset because they had to forego some of the luxuries of home, i.e. air conditioning! We all fell in love with this country and the people. When we left there was not a dry eye in the group and we immediately started planning for our return trip.

Bethel University Global Studies and the Global Citizen Adventure Corps have created an incredible partnership that engages the unique needs of both university students and our global partners. In Colombia, we spend every day working with children on their language skills as they seek bi-lingual status to set them apart as a leading school in the community. The amenities and cultural activities have never ceased to amaze me. This is my 5th time attending if that tells you anything. Join us and support us for the trip of a lifetime!

Embarking on a study abroad journey to Cali, Colombia was an experience beyond compare. As a high school student, I had the unique privilege of assisting in teaching English as a second language for college credit. I have since been able to use this experience on numerous applications with great results. The volunteer component of this program was especially rewarding. The faculty, staff, and students at the school provided exceptional support, guidance, and hospitality. From well-equipped classrooms to engaging activities, every aspect of the program was designed to foster a dynamic and enriching learning environment for all participants. And, for my volunteer efforts, I was awarded the President's Volunteer Service Award! Another excellent and unique addition to my college apps! Another rewarding aspect of the program was the opportunity for cultural immersion. Cali, Colombia, is a city bursting with energy, culture, and warmth, and this program facilitated numerous meaningful interactions with the local community. Whether it was exploring the vibrant streets of Cali, participating in cultural exchange activities, or volunteering in the community, every experience deepened my understanding of Colombian culture and enriched my perspective on the world. This Colombia program is a true gem. From the moment I arrived until the day I left, I felt supported, challenged, and inspired to embrace new opportunities and perspectives. I am immensely grateful for the friendships made, lessons learned, and memories created during my time in Colombia. Five stars hardly seem sufficient to capture the excellence of this program and the profound impact it has had on my life. Highly recommended to anyone seeking an unforgettable study abroad experience.

This is truly the best school experience I have ever had. I’ve always loved traveling and this trip gave me the opportunity to do that while also truly feeling like I was helping the community and honestly this trip made such an impact I plan 100% on going back next year!

The trip was great in service to the people of Guatemala. Many citizens have few resources and lack basic medical services. Global Citizen Adventure Corps stepped in to assist with dental hygiene products at one small school. So many needs to fill, but, the relationship was built. Next trip is to assist indigenous women with their needs. Additionally, my fellow travelers saw Mayan ruins and witnessed a town’s festival. It is great to travel, learn and serve.

"For the Bethel University Global Studies and Global Citizen Adventure Corps program, I, along with several others, served in Honduras. In preparation for the trip to Honduras, I completed several assignments connected to what it means to be a global citizen, how to practice global citizenship, and the differing issues that some countries, including Honduras, face. I also learned what to pack before traveling and what to do in case of emergencies while traveling. These assignments and materials were crucial for the success of the trip to Honduras. Although it was very important to be educated on such matters before the trip, it was very necessary to actually practice and execute these tasks for others in real life. One of the many projects we worked on while in Honduras was the installation of a clean water filter. Because of the lack of clean water sources to many families in Honduras, it is extremely beneficial for those families to have comfortable access to clean water sources. Areas with a high rate of poverty have very little access to basic necessities, so it is very important that we do our part to help those people live healthier and happier lives. In order to be a global citizen, you must understand other people’s situations and you must be willing to take action by helping others. The clean water filters were not only delivered to the people of Honduras, but the community was also taught how to use them correctly and safely. The water filters were attached through a small hole drilled into a bucket, and they filter any dirt or harmful minerals in the water and release clean, drinkable water. Our contributions to this project included many steps. The day before we delivered the water filtration kits, we had to drill small holes into many buckets. Afterwards, we washed off the buckets and stacked them up to be taken to a different location the next day. The next morning, we traveled to said location and unloaded the buckets onto different tables. We arranged two groups to teach about the water filtration system and gave each family one bucket. Soon after, we gave a step-by-step presentation of how to assemble and maintain the water filtration systems. Although our words were translated, everyone in our group was able to feel a strong sentiment and connection with each family. It was truly heartwarming and eye-opening to see how grateful everyone was for such a small product. Part of global citizenship is having a personal connection with different cultures and ethnic groups, and I believe this project really fits into that definition. One of the little things that stood out to me when we traveled to Honduras was giving out small handmade bracelets to the children and adults there. With every bracelet we handed out, the most beautiful smile were returned to us. The genuine feeling of gratitude and appreciation from the community for our work was evident there, and that experience made me truly understand how important global learning and citizenship is for everyone to practice. After returning back to Tennessee from Honduras, I can truthfully say that I will continue to practice good citizenship and community service in my own town. I plan on donating food cans in local organizations such as the Feeding of the 5,000, or other canned food drives hosted by my school or church. I also plan on participating in teaching young children about art or reading in any way I can. Lastly, I want to donate clothes, shoes, toys, and books to local charities and organizations in order to give to those who may live in low income households. I am extremely lucky to be living comfortably enough to where I can help others out in any way possible, and maybe even make my town a better place. "

The country of Guatemala was truly amazing. I can not begin to describe the impact this country had on me. We learned so much about the community, health, and safety practices to use in other countries, as well as the people living in Guatemala. The community was present and there for one another throughout the cities, we went to. You saw families who stuck together even though they had no money or food. They supported each other in whatever endeavor; as a family, they conquered it together. It is important to consider your health and safety when going to another country such as Guatemala. All students and travelers from the US had to be careful of what they drank or ate because it all had to be properly washed and prepared with clean hands and other proper disinfecting procedures for us to consume it. We had to be careful with receiving or consuming other foods or drinks outside of the Seminary where we stayed as well. We also implemented health information and procedures for the Guatemalan community. On this trip, we taught children in schools the importance of dental hygiene by learning how to properly brush their teeth. We also provided these children with fluoride as well as an examination of their teeth for the dentist that regularly visits their school to know which kids needed extractions or cavities filled. These kids have little to nothing and the least of their parent's worries is to get them a toothbrush, so being able and a part of giving simple items such as toothbrushes and toothpaste to these children was so rewarding. These children were so joyful and enlightened by the simple gesture of receiving a toothbrush. These children were also eager to learn and better themselves by learning to brush their teeth and receive fluoride and an examination. This taught me to be grateful for the things I have because these kids were joyful with nothing before receiving the toothbrush and were happier after receiving some little item we consider a necessity in our everyday lives. I believe that there are people without certain things they need to live not just in third-world countries, but here in the United States and even in our communities too. I now know how to properly make a difference in my community because of this trip and opportunity. By doing it at a larger global level, I now know how to transfer what I learned from Guatemala and the children we impacted to my everyday life and community. I could collect blankets or coats and give them to people in my community who have little as a way to mimic what this trip has taught me. A little goes a long way which is proved by this experience. These children were so happy to receive so little, but these two little items could impact their lives and health forever. My heart and mind have been forever changed thanks to this amazing, life-changing experience. I can not be more thankful to Bethel University Global Studies, Global Citizens Adventure Corps, and the people of Guatemala for allowing me to learn, experience, and make a difference on such a bigger level way more than myself.

On March 5th, Bethel University Global Studies and Global Citizen Adventure Corps took a group of college students to Guatemala. In Guatemala, we served with the Cumberland Presbyterian church and a local school. The Church assisted us with transportation, support, and supplies to help with the children at the school. Along with volunteering at the school, the group and I learned about the culture of Guatemala through first-hand experiences. We met with Mayan women and learned the story and importance of weaving and buying from the women in Guatemala. We also learned how much Guatemalans valued buying and staying local to their culture. Many Guatemalans only survive on one quetzal a day per person in their family. These families usually have unstable jobs and are not being paid daily. Purchasing from locals and from women only supported the family and provided a higher daily income. We also learned the importance of their dishes and how to make traditional food. Our group helped the chef at the seminary, and we felt how hard the chef had worked to keep everyone fed every day. Guatemala opened my eyes to struggles that I was unaware were happening. Our primary goal in Guatemala was to help at the local school. The children at this school came from rough and poor homes. They were not given the healthcare that they needed. A dentist came to the seminary where we stayed and showed us how to teach the kids to brush their teeth. The dentist also instructed us on how to give a dental examination so that when she returned to the school, she could quickly fill any cavities. As an American, I grew up going to the dentist twice a year and having easy access to fluoride. Sadly, the majority of these kids were only seeing the dentist once every few years. Many people in the United States do not get cavities due to our easy access. However, poor dental hygiene and cavities were the norms during our volunteering. We saw nearly 150 kids and gave each a dental kit, examination, and fluoride treatment. Along with dental care, we gave each group of kids a music lesson, and volunteers from the Cumberland Presbyterian church in Guatemala gave the children a lecture in kind words and behavior. Since many of these children came from families who did not care about their education or possibly abusive households, we wanted to show them that the language or actions they see are not okay. The dental examinations and lessons were highly beneficial to the community. In the United States, we take advantage of our health care and how quickly we can get it. These children are not allowed that advantage at all. Our group gave them relief and care they will keep with them for the rest of their lives. Our help will stay with them for years. Our assistance also allowed the dentist to fix the children’s teeth faster and therefore allowing her to help more children in the future. I also believe our mini-lectures will stick with the children and help guide them to a better life. Children need a sturdy and reliable place to grow as decent people. I hope our lessons show the children that the world needs kindness. I hope it opens their eyes that people do care and that they can find a family at the school or the Church. Giving these children a safe place would be a gift that will change their lives for the better.

I had a life changing experience on this trip! I learned so much about a different culture and lifestyle, music, and life lessons in general. The leader of this trip made it so much easier. This got me out of my comfort zone by far, and I don’t think I’d have done it without such excellent leadership and guidance. I loved this experience and so glad I did it!

This was my 3rd trip back in October. Getting to experience a new location is incredible. This was an incredible opportunity to gain new experience, friends, memories, and so much more. Would definitely recommend to anyone who is called to travel.

This was my first international trip. I was nervous at first, but every decision that was made made me feel amazing. We got to teach kids of all ages, explore so many sites, and see awesome views from all angles. The memories will never be forgotten. I hope that I am called back very soon.

This trip was the perfect combination of tourism and local culture immersion. From shows and sea turtle rescues to staying with locals and trying new local foods the variety gave us everything. The leaders made sure we were well prepared and felt safe while staying in a country while only knowing a little of the language. This was truly the experience of a lifetime.

This trip opened me up to a new culture, new language, and new people. The trip was meticulously planned and orchestrated, with every detail carefully thought out. I am forever grateful for this experience, as it allowed me the opportunity to consider my place as a global citizen, learn about a wonderful culture, and expand my thinking. I am eternally grateful for this opportunity.

I went back in 2011 and it was a wonderful experience that I still think about today. It was great to immerse myself in Brazilian culture and my life was changed for the better. We had the opportunity to meet with the students and teaches at the local university and we also had time to just visit around the city.

Going to Brazil with the group was a great experience! It was my first trip out of the country. I felt like I was prepared to go months in advance. I had no worries about transportation or housing, and never felt unsafe. Each day was structured and fully planned out with activities. I was much more immersed with the culture, locals, and food than if I had just visited there on a vacation.

I traveled to Salvador da Bahia, Brazil in the summer of 2006 with Dr Julie Hill as part of the University of Tennessee at Martin Percussion Studio. This experience gave my peers and I the opportunity to grow as musicians but more importantly as people. I have been a teacher for 15 years, and I refer to this trip very often to my students. This has many times helped open my students eyes to how there is more to learn that what is ten feet in front of their faces. I am a better teacher, a better mentor, and a better person for having this experience. If not for this program, I certainly never would have taken the journey. I am deeply appreciative of Dr Hill for inspiring us in this way, and I certainly hope for as many people, young and old, as possible to have similar opportunities.

Our trip to Bahia was incredible, providing educational opportunities, fun, and life changing experiences. Everything was handled with care and great attention to detail. Our entire party was made to feel comfortable and safe throughout our journey. Highly recommend.

Being able to experience other countries and cultures was a truly eye opening experience. Learning how others live and witnessing the power of connections that we can share with one another really shows how similar we all are despite the differences of our every day lives. The experience that I had will forever live in me and will forever impact how I live my life. There is so much to learn when you get outside of your bubble and see the world and the people in it. Brazil is one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever visited. The music, the food, the art, and the people will always hold a special place in my heart.

In the summer of 2006 I took a student trip with Dr. Hill to Savador da Bahia. The experience was life changing. We were immersed in the culture with music lessons, concerts, and traditional food. We truly experienced the whole of Brazilian life in Bahia. I learner music there that I still practice today. The music I learned there gave me a focus for grad school and fostered a love for other cultures that I wouldn't have gotten anywhere else. Even now, almost 20 years later, I recall those experiences and how they shaped my life. We stayed in Salvador da Bahia. While there we explored the history of the city, took in many concerts, and got to take lessons in Brazilian Capoeira. We then traveled to Sau Paulo and took lessons with a professor there and got to see life in a big city in another country. I was also able to purchase musical instruments that I still currently use. These instruments were hand made and of a much better quality than what we can have shipped to the United States.

My first time in visiting Salvador da Bahia, Brazil was life changing. Being a musician and an educator, I knew many values of music, but I never fully realized music's power to transform generations until I went to Salvador. There are so many wonderful organizations in Salvador helping transform the lives of women and young people through the arts. I am ever grateful for my exposure to these citizen heroes who are now my dear friends. If you want to learn more about Afro Brazilian heritage, culture, fine and performing arts, percussion/drumming, dance, history, and culinary arts to name a few, while helping to serve the mission of one of the organizations mentioned above, this program needs to go on your bucket list asap!