For some, summer is right around the corner and for others it has already begun. It’s a time to have fun with friends, relax, and do the other of millions of things already planned. While you might be in summer school, going on a family vacation, or working, there is still time to go overseas and travel. GLA’s ten-day program is perfect for busy students like you and here’s why!
1. Adventure
We all have a bit of curiosity to see the world and travel into the unknown. This short trip is just long enough to give a taste of what traveling is and where you might want to go next when you have more time.
2. Life Skills
In those ten days you’ll gain a variety of skills that are helpful in everyday life. From working with others, to leadership, and problem solving – to embracing fears of heights, public speaking, or bugs – you’ll learn a lot!
3. Environment
While abroad you’ll learn about other cultures and how other people live. You’ll also learn how to be sustainable in day-to-day life, not only in that country but also here at home. These are skills that can be applied to daily life.
4. Join a community
In the time spent in this new country, you’ll not only immerse yourself in a new culture, but you’ll also become part of the community. You’ll make connections with the locals – feel like part of their family. You may even want to go back!
5. New Interests
As you go abroad, you’ll find passions you never knew you had. It could be a sport like soccer or perhaps a future career choice like becoming a doctor or an environmentalist. In the short time spent, you’ll learn what you really like and what you don’t.
6. Lifelong Friendships
Even though you’re only on the trip for ten days, the people you go with will become your life long friends. You’ll be spending time with students just like you, but from all over. They’ll quickly turn into your best friends on the trip and those you can grow old and grey with.
7. Independence
This is a time where you’re on your own with a chance to learn about yourself and how you work with others. Traveling to a new country for ten days gives you just the right amount of freedom without feeling homesick. It’s a great next step towards adulthood.
8. Resume/College Apps
As cliché as it sounds, you’re in high school, soon to be thinking of college or applying for jobs and putting a trip like this on your resume is sure to make you stand out!
9. Bucket List
It may sound silly, but we all have a bucket list, whether it’s written down on paper, in our iPhones, or just thought of. Traveling, zip-lining, inner tubing down a river, or snorkeling are most likely somewhere on the list, so why not do them now you have the chance. All that is needed is ten days. Ten days out of summer (or your vacation break if your school goes year round). Now that’s doable.
10. Memories
Yes it’s a short trip, but the memories made on it will last forever. Whether it’s simply remembering the experience or looking at the photos you’ve taken, those ten days will be something you’ll never forget.
Contributed by Samantha Watkins
