What Do Students Say?
Anna Age 20 Sun Prairie, WI
My first trip with GEx was to the Amazon Rainforest in Peru, South America. Prior to this trip I had very little experience traveling and interacting with people from other cultures and countries. I had never really been exposed to a different corner of the world outside my own in Wisconsin and as a result, had an extremely limited idea of what else the world had to offer. Visiting Peru and traveling with Global Explorers changed that drastically. I was instantly placed into a whole new environment where there was a new culture, a new language, and new people. It was all unfamiliar but through my experiences in Peru, I quickly learned how to approach new challenges and deal with the unfamiliarity of being in a new place and situation. Though it was a bit intimidating, it was extremely exciting and was a trip I will never forget. My first trip with Global Explorers spiked my curiosity in travel, foreign cultures, and my desire to meet new people and learn about new places. Had I never traveled with Global Explorers, I would probably never have opened my eyes and mind to the endless possibilities and experiences that the world has to offer.
I think one of the greatest things about Global Explorers is that they encourage learning through experience and through these experiences, I have learned far more than I ever could sitting in a classroom. Their lessons about science, leadership, culture, and service have really influenced many areas of my life. After visiting the Amazon Rainforest, I understand the importance of environmental conservation. After participating in Leading the Way Program, I understand what it means to be a leader. After interacting with local Tanzanian students, I understand that bond that forms between two different cultures when they share their culture and work towards the same goal. My experiences are important to me because of the lessons I’ve learned, lessons that have really changed the way that I think and act. I think my travels with Global Explorers have played a huge part in becoming the person that I am today.
