The GCY Experience
Global Citizen Year is a nine-month program bridging high school and college with an immersive educational experience abroad. You will develop the critical knowledge, skills and perspectives for a life of engaged global citizenship.
TRAIN
The fall after you graduate from high school, you and your fellow Fellows will come to California for the US Training Institute. GCY-style education starts here, with a few weeks of hands-on, experiential learning. Through workshops led by leaders across business, government and the social sector, you’ll develop frameworks for the experience to come. Whether exploring global development, understanding social enterprise, or honing your skills as a leader, you will leave the training prepared for the adventure ahead. Learn More→
APPRENTICE
Following the US Institute, and one month of in-country orientation, you will spend six months living with a family in a rural community in Africa, Asia or Latin America. During your stay, you will work as an apprentice, supporting a local project addressing a pressing need. Over time, you’ll learn the local language, grow close to your homestay family, find your place in your new community, and develop a new understanding of what it means to have an impact. Throughout your experience, your fellow GCY Fellows, and GCY Team Leader will be an important network of support. Learn More→
CONNECT
While in the field, you’ll share your day-to-day experiences through your writing, videos and pictures – connecting friends, family, and supporters to life in your new community. You’ll aso have opportunities to post to the GCY Blog and other media channels like Current TV. When you get home, you’ll create a Capstone Project – a unique expression of your GCY experience in words, images or film. We’ll then help you connect with classrooms, communities and leaders across the country to share your experience – raising awareness about global issues and engaging others in meaningful action to support global development. Learn More→
TRANSITION
Once in college, you’ll bring a wealth of experience, a global perspective, and a range of interests to your campus. Throughout your college experience and beyond, GCY and a network of GCY Alumni will be there to support your continuing journey as a globally-minded change-maker, offering new opportunities and a growing network of mentors. Learn More→