Going away to college is one thing. Going away on a gap year is something else entirely. Global Citizen Year offers gap year fellowships for recent graduates looking for something more. Does that sound like you? Gap year fellowships offer so many benefits; experience new cultures, learn or practice languages, make life-long friendships, and develop life skills that will set you up for success in college. All while improving global competency as well as gaining clarity about who you are and how you want to shape the world and shape your life.
So how do gap year fellowships work? We’ll show you.
GLOBAL CITIZEN YEAR: PROGRAM STEPS
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Global Citizen Year: Program Steps
There are many benefits of gap year fellowships for recent graduates. If you have an adventurous spirit and are looking for something more with your education, gap year fellowships offer a unique way to become immersed in a new culture and learn valuable leadership skills. Few people will ever have the opportunity to participate and engage with a culture on a deeper level. So let’s explore what you need to do to take advantage of this opportunity.
Below are the steps you need to take to enroll in a gap year program today.
1. Apply!
Check out our application or request more information.
2. Choose your destination
Our Fellows go to Brazil, Ecuador, Senegal and India. Take this quiz to find the best location for you!
3. Train
Spend a week in California meeting your other Fellows and engaging in a week-long training program for all the final preparations you’ll need before departure.
4. Orientation
Upon arriving at your destination, you’ll spend your first month in a major city participating in an orientation with intensive language training and learning from members of Gates Foundation and other leading global organizations. Be part of a group of Fellows that are intelligent, driven and passionate.
5. Welcome home
Leave from orientation and get excited to meet the people who will become your new family for the next several months. Our host families are carefully screened and selected by our staff. You’re sure to have a truly exceptional connection and experience with your host family.
6. Immerse
Work with members of the community and gain real work experience in an expansive number of valuable fields of study. You won’t be a spectator, you’ll play the sports, engage in the traditions and truly be a part of the community. Reconnect with Fellows for regular training seminars to share experiences and receive deeper training.
7. Join our Alumni Network
The end of your bridge year is just the beginning of the ongoing support you’ll have as part of the Global Citizen Year alumni network. Unlock worldwide connections and opportunities that will last a lifetime.
8. College
Apply what you’ve learned in your bridge year and take college by storm.
During your apprenticeship you’ll be a part of so many life-changing activities and events, you might be able to write the next great American novel. Until then, you’ll maintain a blog illuminating all of your experiences during your bridge year. Upon returning to your home community, you’ll complete a Capstone project that will share your story, raise awareness and inspire others.
If you’re curious, determined, and eager to try new things, a gap year program with the potential to make a global impact is the right choice for you! Apply today and get started with Global Citizen Year!
Sources: American Gap Org: http://www.americangap.org/data-benefits.php
EXPERIENCE A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
A GLOBAL CITIZEN YEAR FELLOW
Fellow / Ecuador
— Anna del Savio
I work with a group of indigenous artisans that make fair trade jewelry.…
Fellow / Brazil
— Amari Leigh
After my community garden apprenticeship, I like to hang out at the local waterfall with my friends.…
Fellow / Brazil
— Basil Wiering
I often hail a rickshaw into various parts of the city to meet friends and practice street photography.…
Fellow / Brazil
— Fernanda Tornell
I've developed my public speaking skills and encouraged hundreds of people to take care of our planet.…
Fellow / India
— Luciana Ribeiro da Silva
I apprentice with Teach For India and also volunteer with a non-profit working to end child marriage.…
Fellow / Ecuador
— Noah Hapke
I co-teach English classes at the school in my community.…
Fellow / Brazil
— Sarah Murray
My apprenticeship is at a school for people with disabilities where I help to lead gardening, games, and capoeira.…
Fellow / India
— Alana Poole
In the afternoons, I often go on home visits to meet my students' families and understand where they come from.…