The Global LEAD Difference

 

Leadership, Education, Adventure & Diplomacy (L.E.A.D.)

 

Others just go abroad. We LEAD.  The entire philosophy and format of our LEAD Base Camp program is tailored to provide a  cohesive, cultural experience that embraces our core ideals of Leadership, Education, Adventure and Diplomacy.

 

The LEAD Base Camp Team

 
At home and abroad, Global LEAD has a dedicated team of executive staff and interns that help create meaningful experiences for our students. We believe that going abroad should never be just a trip; rather, it is an opportunity for growth, adventure and service. Our staff are trained to facilitate thoughtful conversations around the core components of LEAD Base Camp.
 
More than just a job

Global LEAD was born from passion and purpose, not merely the promise of a paycheck.  We care deeply about delivering the most impactful experiences domestically and abroad.  It is often said that those who do what they love never work a day in their lives – we agree.

Emergency response

We understand that emergencies will happen abroad and we are prepared to handle the situation whether it is a health or personal issue.  Safety abroad is always our number one focus and we go the extra mile to mitigate risk, respond to crises and communicate with those that matter every step of the way.  Additionally, each Global LEAD staff member is trained in CPR and First Aid which enables them to act swiftly in emergency situations.
 
Full time, experienced staff at home and abroad

The Global LEAD team has extensive international experience and is always ready to help whether you are home or abroad.
 

The Little Things

 
Personal communication
Our organization understands the power of personal communication during the entire study abroad process.  From the beginning we are here to walk you through the steps, meet with you for coffee or speak on the phone to assuage your concerns.  Formal information sessions and thorough pre-departure packets are also provided with more detailed information as we prepare for takeoff.  Additionally, we love to keep parents involved through weekly updates from the Program Director, daily student blogs and constant, real-time tweets, even if their sons or daughters are too busy exploring their new surroundings to do the same.

 

Personal touches

It’s always the little things that make an experience memorable.  Global LEAD knows all too well how anxious and excited you feel when you first land in a foreign country and  that’s why we provide each LEAD Base Camp student with a welcome bag full of goodies to make them feel at home.  Whether a simple gesture like this or matching roommates based on preferences and attributes; it’s always the little, personal touches that make the LEAD Base Camp experience stand out from the rest.
 
Customized to YOU

Our goal is to provide you with an incredible experience.  However, it is YOUR experience, and we believe you should have some input.  Each year Global LEAD programs evolve based on the previous year’s feedback and more importantly, the input we collect from you throughout the process.  Preferences ranging from cuisine, activities and adventure tours drive the overall program because your opinion matters to us.

 

Activities and Adventures

 
Breaking out of your comfort zone

We believe in the power of possibility, in challenging  ourselves to step out of our perceived comfort zones.  Global LEAD provides integral experiences, which allow students to face their fears and overcome self-doubt.  One student from Cape Town 2011

described her transformation: “I jumped – the power was not in the fall but in the decision to make the leap.  Today, I left self-doubt and fear on that platform.  Tomorrow, I will do things that I never thought were possible before.”
 
Adventure plus

All of our programs offer students the opportunity to engage in once-in-a lifetime adventures that enhance the international experience. Whether embarking on Big 5 safaris in South Africa, hiking an ancient volcanic crater in Greece or exploring the awe-inspiring rainforests of Ecuador, Global LEAD offers adventures that will push your limits and ignite your imagination.
 
Cultural experiences

We strive to incorporate authentic cultural experiences into our study abroad philosophy as we get you out of the classrooms and into the local communities.  Learning to operate a blow gun in the indigenous communities of Ecuador, diving into the culinary history of Greek cuisine and making strong connections with families in the townships of Cape Town, South Africa are opportunities we don’t want you to miss while studying abroad with Global LEAD.

 

Continued Investment

 
When you complete other international programs, you go home as an alumni.  However, after you participate in a life-changing Global LEAD experience, you are part of  our Family and the opportunities to get involved are only beginning. Global LEAD is excited to network our LEAD Base Camp students with other LEAD Family members represented at 12 universities across the United States. In addition, we invite you to join us at our LEAD Local events such as service projects, leadership speakers, and networking events.