MEI Academy World High School

My experience with MEI was life changing. I cannot recommend them enough. The teachers are some of the best I have encountered throughout high school and university. Every destination and experience enhances the curriculum, creating an education experience like no other.

When I heard about this academy from a friend, I was excited for the opportunity to send our Son on an experiential learning journey. Little did I know that it was going to be one of the greatest opportunities and gift we could give him. Our son went on Trek 3 Through Europe. The enrolment process was smooth, and Pam was always happy to answer any questions and direct to resources. As for the whole trip, it was a great investment of time and money. This opportunity resulted in our son completing his High School as early as February 2024 and gaining admission into the prestigious UBC Sauder School of Business for the 2024/25 academic year. MEI Academy not only teaches courses, it fosters character building while also providing a glimpse into our world. ‘The world is indeed our classroom.’ After hearing about the experience our daughter is looking forward to go on a journey with MEI as well.

Making the decision to attend MEI Academy is hands down one of the best decisions I have made. I attended the 2018 Adventure Down Under summer session and I loved it so much I signed up for the 2019 Kingdoms and Empires group for my second semester of grade 12. During these trips I learned a lot about myself and became more independent. The other students I met on these trips are still some of my best friends and I will always cherish the times we spent together. On top of this, the teachers educate you on much more than just academics. They help you reach outside of your comfort zone and support you as you learn more about yourself and the world around you. MEI Academy immensely helped me grow as an individual and prepared me to live away from home for University. I would take this opportunity again in a heartbeat!

During grade 11, I decided to go to Asia for my spring semester with MEI and transitioned to Europe in the fall of grade 12. This ‘reverse’ big year approach set me apart from my peers, yet I found myself enjoying it just as much. I chose to apply for MEI because I was looking for deeper knowledge than what was available at my local public schools. I went into it pretty blindly, not knowing anyone, as most of the students do. My high school experience has been anything but ordinary, as I have attended four different high schools, including MEI Academy. It was during the two MEI programs, where I discovered an incomparable educational experience. The teacher’s high expectations fueled my growth as a student, thinker, and peer. Coming from an online school, I initially lacked certain public speaking skills and certain social abilities. However, the immersive and supportive environment at MEI sparked my personal transformation. I came out of my programs, not only as a more articulate individual but also as someone who can easily speak for myself and confidently form friendships with people who I might not have connected with otherwise. One aspect of the program that particularly resonates with me to this day was the structured routine of our days, which was nothing like my life at home. Waking up each day surrounded by individuals who were equally as eager to embrace the new experiences was a breath of fresh air. From daily morning workouts in constantly changing locations to reflective writing and collaborative projects, I truly would not have found this anywhere else. Unlike a conventional school setting where teacher interaction is limited to the class period, with MEI I had constant engagement with both educators and students, creating meaningful relationships that extended far beyond the classroom. Not only did my relationships extend beyond the classroom, but so did my education. MEI stands out as a transformative educational experience. Something I had never experienced in a traditional classroom, but had the opportunity to learn on my MEI program was the blend of courses with real-world application. The academic skills –from public speaking to essay writing– that were taught during my time with MEI, I continue to actively apply to all of my courses at home. These are valuable skills that will continue to allow me to prosper as I begin post-secondary education. For those who want to broaden their horizons and grow as an individual and as a student, MEI Academy is the perfect place to do that. I wholeheartedly recommend these programs for anyone who is considering it. I would not be the same without this experience.

I departed on MEI's big year in 2013/2014. Ten years later it is still a core memory and an essential aspect of my education. I continue to employ the values, experiences, and educational techniques gained during my experience in both day-to-day life, as well as professionally. I am forever grateful for my experience with MEI International Academy.

I had an amazing experience on the term 3 Kingdoms trip to western Europe in 2019. The MEI community and teachers are very supportive and helped everyone get the absolute most out of their time abroad! Definitely recommend.

My summer on MEI was everything and more than what I hoped for. The staff and students were incredibly welcoming and the quality of education is unparalleled to anything you can get in a classroom. I know these experiences will forever stick with me and I can only hope that more people will see the value in such educations. I wouldn't have traded my summer with MEI for the world.

I had an amazing experience in Greece with MEI. All the teachers were genuinely interested in our wellbeing and making sure we all had an enjoyable experience. All the places that we stayed at were amazing and well set up and you could clearly see all the planning that went into our trip. Not once did I feel uneasy or unsafe. I can confidently say that I grew both as a student and a person on this trip. I actually really enjoyed all of our assignments and lessons and felt as though they really fit the places we were visiting. The people were great and I will cherish the memories that I made on this trip for many years to come!

Hi my name is Andrea Monaco and I just finished the english in Spain and Portugal program. This is a once in a life time experience I would recommend to everyone. The memories and friends you make are something you wouldn’t get anywhere else. The teachers were amazing with 1 on 1 time whenever needed and the structure of school is unbeatable. I can say I have made life long friends who I am already missing only 1 day later. This is something every kid should be able to experience and if you have the opportunity to do it, PLEASE DO.

In 2019 I went to western Europe with MEI Academy and had the most amazing experience in my life! The teachers on MEI are the most caring, supportive and hands on teachers I’ve ever had. They are very invested in getting to know each individual student to insure the get the most out of their education and experience abroad. I highly recommend traveling with MEI for the most rewarding and fun experience you’ll have.

I attended the MEI International Business program and would highly recommend it to any students looking to learn more about business and investing. This is an action packed course with great teachers and lessons that are a great preparation for the future.

Highly recommend this program… My teenage daughter did it this previous summer and had an absolutely amazing experience. Not only was the trip very well organized, but the teachers were excellent and the experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity. She learned so much more being over in the place where history happened than sitting in a classroom. The entire program is well run and provides a great experience for both parents and students.

I love MEI. I could go on for hours about how truly amazing my time with them has been. I will always be a fan of theirs and will always recommend who I can to go on one of their adventures. I was lucky enough to go on two separate summer trips. I did adventure down under in 2016 And international Business in 2017 or 2018. I have always struggled with some aspects of school and was nervous about attempting university-level courses while being abroad as I did not usually take university-level classes but I found it easy not because it was easy but because of how it was taught. I’ve never liked English as I’m a creative person and I’ve never seen English as anything but essay writing. On my first trip on Mei, I loved English. for the first time in my life, I understood so much of a subject I never felt I knew before. The teaching approach was amazing and engaging. I wish all schools taught how they did. Besides great teaching, the programs are set up amazingly where you truly get to experience being on your own (in groups of three) and build your independence abroad. I feel if I went back to the places I’ve travelled that I would be confident in knowing my way around because of the independence I gained with Mei. The teachers down to the people in the office are amazing. A helpful group of friendly people. I had a few teachers between both trips who were so great but one teacher who stuck with me through it all was Simon. Simon is awesome and is someone I grew a connection too. He can be your teacher and friend all at once. He is someone I will always remember. Also if you do require any extra help or accommodations they are very helpful! I have ADHD and a learning disability and I always felt I had help when I needed it. If you are thinking of sending your child away on Mei do it!! It will impact them in the best way possible & give them so many memories and Friendships. I still talk to a good handful of people from my trips to this day who I make sure I see at least once a year. If I could of paused time and stayed in high school just so I could go on more adventures with MEI I would

I really enjoyed this program by MEI Academy because of the beautiful places we visited and the amazing teachers who supported me. I would recommend these trips to anyone because they are extremely inclusive.

I first heard of MEI about 10 years ago when our son was 6 years old. Over the years I have referred friends and family to the program while patiently waiting for our son to join the program. Trip after trip, I saw the positive impact of the program on the participants. Our son has now returned from his trip and has nothing but positive memories to share. He enjoyed his classmates and deeply respects his teachers for their passion to teach. MEI did not disappoint and if you are considering it, do it!

I went on the Central America Backpackers trip this summer and can honestly say it was one of the most inspiring and life-changing experiences I have ever had. From the amazing teachers and students I met from across Canada, to studying english and biology on the beach, I could not think of a better way to have spent my summer. I loved how close and comfortable everyone was around each other, especially having not known anyone going into the trip. I would highly recommend studying abroad with MEI Academy!

I was a student on the Europe: Kingdoms trip 2 years ago. At first, I was quite nervous about travelling with a group of people I never met before but before I knew it I felt like we were family! I can honestly say that partaking in this MEI trip changed my life and I met some truly amazing people. I loved learning outside of a traditional classroom and exploring the beautiful cities we visited during our free time. The teachers who accompanied us on the trip were extremely supportive in both academics and personal issues. I came back from my MEI experience feeling more confident in myself and had a more positive attitude overall. I highly recommend MEI and I will never forget the amazing memories our group made together.

My summer last year at MEI was amazing. I did the Odyssey program and it was the experience of a lifetime. I got to see historical sites and artifacts I never thought I'd be able to, made many new friends, and learned English from some of the best teachers I've ever had. I could notice how my writing considerably improved in a single month. The only piece of feedback I can think of is how I would find it useful if a tracking sheet with a list of assignments was provided beforehand so that I can budget my time wisely, even if the sheet is subject to change. I assumed that I had more time than I did and had to finish my procrastinated projects at the very end. I recognize that the procrastination is definitely on me but it could have been helpful to know how many assignments were left to spread the work out more evenly. Other than this one piece the organization and quality of my learning were outstanding. The accommodations were amazing everywhere, and the day was a perfect balance between learning, guided expeditions, and free time. I would strongly recommend MEI to any student looking for a fun, memorable and productive summer program.

This experience was incredible for our son. It really was life changing for him and I highly recommend this experience for anyone with a high school aged child. MEI is an incredible school and we appreciate everything they have done for our family immensely.

My daughters completed their high school English courses through MEI summer travel study program. It was an excellent experience! The locations chosen, the instruction, the organization was top notch. My daughters felt safe and cared for. The life experience was very valuable. I highly recommend this for your child. My daughters have gone on now to Medical school and Law School. MEI contributed to their personal and academic success. We are grateful to MEI.

The media program is great for students that want to learn more about photography and videography while travelling around the world with a whole bunch of teenagers and amazing teachers to help with your academics. Media students also travel with ESP students which helps them bond with more people and make life long friendships. The teachers are very supportive and will make sure to give you all the help you need when completing projects. I highly recommend taking any form of MEI course, it is a great opportunity and everyone had a super fun time.

Our family sent two of our daughters with MEI Academy. One completed the International Business summer program and we were so impressed that our other daughter completed her entire Grade 12 year with MEI. The experience was outstanding! Their English and communication skills, understanding and interest of world issues, politics, human rights, history and geography all emerged from their lessons They were taught by extraordinary teachers with real passion for their subjects plus a nurturing personal style while the students were on the road. They were inspired and energized with daily exercise and learning in such unique and wonderful locations It was an exciting time for us as parents as well, as the school takes excellent care to publish photos and blogs along with carefully detailing the homework and projects the students were working on. We were able to follow along with every step of the journey. The girls have gone on to complete excellent University degrees and have found meaningful work in their lives I can't express how important this decision was for our family and how life-changing the programs were. I would highly recommend MEI Academy to anyone thinking about a travel abroad program for their students.

This was a life-altering experience, one with a new range of emotions I never knew existed. Not only did we get to see the most beautiful landscape, but had the most helpful and loving teachers that we could call family. With their help, we formed our own family that I will love endlessly. We all managed to not only learn from our teachers, but from the locals in the beautiful cities we encountered. It taught me to never take any moment in life for granted, and opened up a new perspective on how beautiful out world truly is, all from MEI.

An amazing journey and a life-changing adventure. My son recently returned from your Fall Europe trip and he loved it and learned so much; he is so glad that he went and I loved following along with the photos posted by the teachers. The places that he saw and learned about were incredible, and the teachers excellent. I can't say enough great things about the experience from start to finish. Thank you for making these programs happen through excellent organization, extensive knowledge of your destinations, and dedication to guiding young people to grow, reflect and become independent.

Our family would highly recommend MEI International Academy. Several of our family members have joined with MEI over the years since 1999, and the MEI family of educators are second to none. Most recently, we aimed to send our Gr.12 daughter but travel was hindered by COVID-19. Without missing a beat, MEI staff arranged for engaged online learning, which allowed for the children to receive their credits without compromising the integrity of the education they received. While learning from home was not the plan, MEI sought to engage the children and took care to support them through a difficult time. Student safety and wellbeing never wavered from the primary objective of the staff. Knowing this, gives me the confidence as a parent to trust them with my child. When it's safe to travel, we look forward to our daughter heading out to complete the second leg of her MEI journey to see the world. Thank you to Joe & Rita Mei for all your hard work and dedication, and to your staff for working so hard to support the kids through their learning experience.

This summer has been an amazing experience! I’m so glad I chose to join the MEI family and go on this trip. I joined trek three knowing no one on the trip but ended up meeting some of the best people ever. The application process was smooth and the teachers were easy to communicate with throughout. This program has provided me with experiences I never thought I’d have. I would strongly recommend MEI to any student.

MEI is a life changing experience and I wouldn't trade it for anything. It not only allows you to experience the world, make amazing new bonds, and an engaging education, but it also teaches you about yourself. I've always loved to travel but MEI made me believe I could do it on my own! I'll forever my grateful for everyone involved in the creation of MEI and everyone who was on ESP 2024.

This English abroad trip was incredible. The classes were engaging, and the instructors were top-notch. I loved the balance between learning and exploring the local culture. Every day brought new adventures, from trying local foods to visiting historical sites. I made great friends and learned a lot, whether it was for school or just essential life lessons. Highly recommend this trip to anyone looking to learn while having an unforgettable experience!

My son completed the Spain/Portugal summer 2023. He just got back 24hrs ago. When I asked him to rate the experience out of 10 he said 100/10. He is sad and missing all of his classmates and teachers too. He has made life long friendships, experienced adventures like no other, matured in many ways, saw life and culture in a unique way and above all was taught by fantastic educators. The school/classroom environment was outstanding. Their chosen spots for lectures were breathtaking and providing the students with classroom and learning experience one they, my son, will never forget. MEI from day 1 of our inquiring and registering your communication, preparing and planning was a 100/10. As a parent it’s not easy letting your child travel across the world, but knowing he was doing it with MEI academy was extremely comforting for me. Thank you l, for all your hard work and dedication you put into the programs and most importantly the students! Highly recommend this experience of education and travel for all! Is there an ADULT one? Lol!

In 2018 I joined many other students on the most amazing 'school trip' ever! During the Fall Semester with MEI, I travelled to Southeast Asia and Australia and I am beyond grateful for the knowledge and lifetime friendships I gained on this journey. Every day was a new adventure and the lessons we would learn were that much more engaging because we were surrounded by the history of that days' topic. Now, almost three years later, I am still in touch with many of the friends I made on that trip and we have shared so many memories since. I would recommend this trip to all students as it is a 'once in a lifetime' kind of experience that I would not trade for the world.

MEI was the best experience of my life. I had so many adventures, made so many news friends, and a new set of memories to last a lifetime. I recommend any high school student who is able to take this opportunity to TAKE IT! My life wouldn’t be the same if I didn’t go. I finally had the opportunity to invest in my passion for photography and videography, and I learned so many new media skills as well. If you’re on the fence about MEI, take my advice and just do it- you definitely won’t regret it!!

I’d never been so engaged with course material before going abroad with MEI. There’s something special about feeling physically connected to the things you are learning. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I would recommend to anyone who is considering!

This trip was the best experience of my life. I have never felt so immersed and interested in what I was learning. Having the opportunity to be in the exact locations that the information I was learning about took place made it so engaging. The teaching is amazing and cant compare to being in a regular classroom. I felt challenged in my school work and my views on the world and was able to change so much in just three months. My favourite part of MEI is the people you meet. The friends I made on this trip are my family. It's been over two years since I have seen most of them but we still all keep in touch. Everyday is a new and incredible experience and I cannot recommend this trip enough. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about it and miss it so much. 110% Recommend!!!

I could not recommend MEI enough. It’s such an incredible growth experience in all aspects of life. You meet AMAZING people, are guided by incredibly passionate teachers and are shown a different way to learn and view our world. I have to say that the biggest thing I gained from that experience was a totally new perspective and appreciation for education. The way the subjects are taught along with the inspirational teachers and destinations make you so excited to attend lessons. You learn to view the world and the people around you in a different way that lights a real and exciting spark of life long curiosity inside you. I didn’t think that feeling was even possible in high school. Still today I carry the lessons I learned. I’m now in university and notice myself using the thinking skills I gained from MEI in my classes. I also still talk to and meet up with the friends I made there who are some of my best friends. I’ll never forget that life changing year!

Attending this trip was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made. MEI had the best locations and had exceptional teachers that delivered an unforgettable experience.The one thing that separates MEI from other programs is the ability to create a family during this short period of time. I’ve met some of my best friends through this trip and created life long memories that I could never forget.

The time I spent with MEI Academy was incredible and some of the most fun I've had in my life. Each location offered a unique and rich experience; no two cities felt the same, and throughout the almost two months I traveled with MEI I almost never found myself bored. The course work was incredibly informative and often connected with the places we visited, fostering a type of learning that offered a unique and incredibly engaging perspective on history. The teachers were incredibly supportive and the trip is a fantastic social environment where I made new friends that I have stayed connected with years after leaving the program. MEI Academy was a fantastic adventure and an experience that looking back on, I couldn’t imagine passing up, I could not recommend it more.

My time traveling through South East Asia with MEI was extremely transformative and inspiring to say the least. I have never met such attentive and invested teachers who teach through engaging and passionate narratives and lessons. I felt the perfect balance of being challenged in my ideas and pushed in my learning, yet having the freedom to be curious and experimental in my work while simultaneously developing the tools for success. I got to see things I could only dream about previously: The beautiful temples of Angkor Wat and the booming Pub Street in Siem Reap, war tunnels, breathtaking beaches, and cafes in Vietnam, a huge gold reclining Buddha statue in Thailand, and so much more that I treasure to this day. The social environment created by MEI is not one of a typical high school. MEI preaches inclusivity and family-like bonds in every moment. Because of this, I met my very best friends and formed bonds that have lasted far past the trip itself. I know now, thanks to MEI, that traveling and attaining holistic knowledge about the world is what I want to do for the rest of my life.