Testimonials

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I learned a lot about their food, interests and skills. I learned that I am hard-working, and need to be more open minded. – Kevin Chen
– Kevin Chen
I loved my experience with GW because they were very responsive, responsible and fun!
Anonymous, Panama Participant
I loved my experience with GW because they were very responsive, responsible and fun!
Anonymous, Panama Participant
Working with Global Works has allowed our school to truly live its global mission. Our students return from these extraordinary experiences with confidence, compassion and a new respect for the world they live in and the different cultures and people they learn about, and from, along the way.
Gordon McNeil, Head of Sage Hill School
I met phenomenal people I wouldn’t have known otherwise and spent time in the world’s most beautiful country.
Kamla Kumar, Costa Rica Participant
My favorite part of the trip was probably the homestay because I felt the most accomplished during and after in terms of my Spanish skills, physical achievements and new bonds.
Anonymous, Costa Rica Participant
My favorite part was the work project because it felt amazing to help other people out.
Alexa Feiner, Costa Rica Participant
Sign up immediately! Don’t hesitate if you have fear of the unknown, you are walking into a life changing experience.
Jenna, Costa Rica Participant
I learned how much happiness there can be in someone’s life who isn’t exposed to the latest technology and the “high class” lifestyle that people strive to be part of.
Jenna, Costa Rica Participant
This trip was absolutely unpredictable and life changing. My eyes have truly been widened.
Karlie, Costa Rica Participant
The homestay was absolutely fantastic! I loved gaining a new family and becoming part of the community. I wish we could have stayed longer.
Karlie, Costa Rica Participant
I learned that culture consists of beautiful people, art, tradition and nature. I’ve discovered that I can appreciate the smaller things in life and want to feel more part of the community.
Marco Spodek, Costa Rica Participant
Mind-blowing experience that opened my eyes to a whole new world!
Riley Brewer, Costa Rica Participant
My GW experience was definitely the best summer experience I’ve ever had. Nothing about it made me unhappy! Everything was amazing!!
Marco Spodek, Costa Rica Participant
Surfing was my favorite part. I’ve always wanted to try it, and it was fun!
Emily Weiner, Costa Rica Participant
I learned that the people are focused on family rather than technology. I learned I could live in a house filled with bugs and no internet, and still have an awesome time.
Jeffrey Kreisler, Costa Rica Participant
I had the BEST time. The people and culture was amazing and I couldn’t imagine anything better!
Claire, Costa Rica Participant
My favorite part was the homestay because I felt as if I were part of a family and the community was fantastic.
Hallie Goldman, Costa Rica Participant
It was a very influential experience. It made me become stronger, more determined and more adaptive.
Calvin Yin, Nicaragua Participant
It was amazing fun, a great learning experience of independence and culture.
Jenna Lin, Nicaragua Participant
Never have I gone on a trip so amazing, ate such great food, discovered more about myself and other people.
Susan Lin, Nicaragua Participant
I would tell future participants to immerse yourself fully in culture. View the work through open eyes. Don’t be afraid to get dirty!
Janli Gwo, Nicaragua Participant
It is a great experience and it allows you to look at who you are and who you want to be.
Kevin Chen, Nicaragua Participant
My favorite part was when I got to see the completed projects and the smiles in the community members’ faces, because I felt like I was part of a big change in those people’s lives.
Jae Lee, Nicaragua Participant
I am so happy I went on this trip. I met such interesting people that I know I will never forget and learned more than I could have ever imagined.
Sam Goodman, Costa Rica Participant
I would describe my Global Works experience as: life changing, eye opening, impossible to forget and just AMAZING! .
Alex J., Costa Rica Participant
I couldn’t have asked for better leaders for the adventure of a lifetime. They were by our sides through the good and the bad times. Before the trip, I was nervous to leave into the unknown and a foreign country. I was nervous about the kids I would be spending a month with. All three leaders made the transition very easy. From each counselor, I took in vast amounts of knowledge which will last me a lifetime. These three leaders made my trip as good as it was, and I couldn’t have asked for anything better or anything more.
Anonymous, Costa Rica Participant
I learned a lot of Spanish on the trip through practicing it in the homestay and with the new people I’ve met.
Anonymous, Costa Rica Participant
The culture of Costa Rica is rich with friends and family and appreciating the little things in life. There is a lesson to be learned around every corner, under every overturned rock in the paths of our lives.
Anonymous, Costa Rica Participant
The best life changing experience of my life that opened my eyes to another part of the world.
Brandon Luchinsky, Costa Rica Participant
This experience is indescribable, I had the time of my life, I learned so much and met new great people!
Winona W., Costa Rica Participant
Global Works changes your perspective on life and changes you for the better.
Mara Welty, Costa Rica Participant
Global Works was a wonderful way to challenge myself with Spanish and also seeing how far I can push myself.
Emma Welty, Costa Rica Participant
Fun, peculiar, memorable, adventurous, challenging, happy, thrilling, prideful, funny, emotional, loving, interesting, joyful, ridiculous, changing, smile, dope, educational, rare, and yay!
Ashley Lankford, Costa Rica Participant
My favorite part of this trip (although it is hard to pick I loved it all) was the homestay. I simply loved every bit of it. My family and the whole experience really affected me. I learned a lot about myself and hopefully built character. Cedral is full of loving people, I’m so grateful to have them all.
Ashley Lankford, Costa Rica Participant
I couldn’t have thought of a better way to spend my summer. I walked away with new language skills, wonderful friends and cool dance moves!
Janine Klein, Costa Rica Participant
Global Works has really opened my eyes to a different culture other than my own. I’m very thankful for what I have now and no longer take things for granted.
Meredith Moller, Costa Rica Participant
I learned that their culture is very different, but accepting and welcoming. I learned that I can adapt to situations that thought I couldn’t, and I have definitely changed as a person. My Spanish has improved a lot.
Anonymous, Costa Rica Participant
Bolas (homestay community) was my favorite experience because it provided a time to interact with Costa Ricans. It also was an amazing experience, and the people were beyond generous. I also fell in love with the community and people.
Anonymous, Costa Rica Participant
This trip was very fun, but also challenging – it definitely put our place in the world in perspective.
Anonymous, Costa Rica Participant
I think that I had an amazing experience because I was able to really live the life of someone else, as well as go canopying and white water rafting which was a personal first for me. I feel like I made friends who will were real, last and I learned that I can still be independent even in another country.
Anonymous, Costa Rica Participant
Fun, adventurous, fulfilling, unique, creative, funny, helpful, teamwork, hard work, experience.
Anonymous
My favorite part of the trip was everything! I enjoyed doing my community service work for a small town who really appreciated it. I loved zip lining through the forest, and surfing some of Costa Rica’s finest waves. But most of all, I loved making new friends from different parts of the world.
Destiny De La Rosa, Costa Rica Participant
Global Works is….A little bit of everything, really. Adventure tied with cultural immersion, traveling, and natural interactions. Our trip really raised the bar for my future travels.
Becky, Peru/ Ecuador Participant
Among the winding streets, pristine natural pools, and wealth of fun spots and delicious restaurants, my host family stood out as the best part of Arenas. Jamming on the guitar with my Spanish brother, Alberto, was equaled by melon-cutting lesson from my nueva madre. All in all, Arenas was an amazing place.
Zach Cartun, Spain Participant
I loved climbing a mountain above Urubamba with my host brother to get the best view of town. Fresh empanadas and cold sodas afterwards topped off the best day.
Max, Peru/ Ecuador Participant
When we first came into this homestay, everyone was nervous, as we thought to ourselves how hard it was going to be sleeping in a different bed and taking cold showers. We didn’t realize that the hard part was actually saying goodbye.
Costa Rica Language Immersion Participant
As I begin to embark on my journey back to New York, I feel a real sense of accomplishment, for having tried something new, learned a lot of Spanish, gained insight from my friends and leaders, and personally feeling a new sense of maturity. Thanks to everyone for an amazing time!
Rachel Seidman, Argentina Classic Participant
It’s hard to pick a single most meaningful portion of a trip so full of service and cultura, but I believe that the thing that will stay with me the longest is my experience in the homestay. My homestay mom was one of the most kindhearted people I have ever met or probably will ever meet. To open your home and share your customs with two complete strangers is truly a remarkable thing. Their generosity and caring showed me that everyone is the same, whether they live in a small town without even a supermarket, or in one of the biggest cities in the world. I established a true connection with the people of Bonpland over the course of ten days. The mix of service work and family bonding made the homestay a unique and unforgettable experience!
Isabel Barry, Argentina Participant
As soon as we stepped off the plane, we were all friends. Not only did we know each other’s names, home states, and hobbies, we all shared inside jokes and some fun nicknames for each other. One may have thought all of the hours of traveling would have tired us out, or made us cranky, but actually it brought us closer and we had a great time.
New Zealand/ Fiji Participant
Some say, “There is no place like home”. Before I entered into Nananu village I believed that as well. Within the first second of stepping off the bus the village gathered together and presented us with a native song welcoming us into their families. Looking around at my peers, not one of them wasn’t smiling from ear to ear. I shook everyone’s hand, heard all the villagers’ names, and was given a gorgeous handmade flower necklace placed on me by my homestay mother followed by a big kiss on the cheek and a heartwarming smile, all within the first hour. It’s an amazing sensation to go from feeling like a tourist to suddenly becoming a part of this blissfully different culture. When I awake in the morning, I put on my Sulu and step onto the front steps, almost instantly the village kids come scattering from different home’s to hold my hand and carry my things to breakfast, as I walk down the path, my arms full of little kids, I hear “Yadra (Good Morning)! How did you sleep?” from almost every villager that happens to walk by me. By the time I reach breakfast my mood has been transformed from sleepy and groggy to happy and grateful to be able to become a part of Nananu village.
Fiji Participant
Here in Pueblo Nuevo the sense of community is overwhelming. Being able to interact with the locals despite the language barrier has made our Global Works group appreciate the value of close-knit relationships. In living with our Costa Rican families we´ve been accepted into the incredibly warm atmosphere that envelops the community. We look forward to our activities and a good night´s rest at day’s end.
Costa Rica Participant
Working hard in the hot Costa Rican sun, day after day, we see our projects produce results quickly. Split into 3 or 4 teams, we´ve cleared fields, moved earth, built gardens, and most visibly, constructed a sturdy concrete structure from nothing but an overgrown patch of dirt. The fulfillment gotten out of such simple tasks and hard work is something rarely found back at home, and in its simplicity, is a great deal of satisfaction, pride, and joy. It can be anything from building a structure up from the ground to solely budging a large rock, yet the way we learn to value teamwork and the power of the group as opposed to the individual is something to be greatly cherished.
Costa Rica Participant
The best part of the day was knowing the work we did will help the world be a little better. This experience of working together will not be forgotten because of the mud stains in our pants, shirts, shoes, and gloves, but also because of the things that we learned about each other as we talked and worked. The work we did and nature that surrounded us made us realize how important it is to maintain our world in good condition. Our work today will hopefully help protect the amazing Rio Celeste.
Costa Rica Participant
I would venture to say that it was the service aspect of the trip that was Erin’s favorite. She was so impressed with the genuine appreciation that they received from the families that were helped and I am sure she will never forget them. This trip was a learning experience for Erin and we are so glad she went. We feel it has given her a broader perspective on both a different culture and on being away from home. We are confident that she will draw on her experience with the Puerto Rico trip as she embraces new challenges in the future. We thank you for all the effort that went into making this trip, a safe amazing opportunity for travel and service.

Sharon Burke, Parent of Puerto Rico Participant
Thank you so much. My son had a great time and we loved seeing the updates from the trip you posted. Great time, I'd highly recommend your program to others.

Stephanie Thomas, Parent of Costa Rica Participant
Just wanted to thank you all and to say that my son had the time of his life in Spain this summer.
Margo Tarasov, Parent of Spain Participant
I just want to communicate to someone at Global Works that Jaime had a FANTASTIC time. He said it could not have been better – the instructors, group, his host family… were all spectacular. I’ve never seen him with such a huge smile, he felt so proud of making such good friends and for doing something he never dreamed of. He was touched by how supportive and kind every single person he interacted with was. It is because of this trip that he now wants to leave NYC (home) for college, because he’s learned that something uncomfortable can eventually get comfortable. I thank you and the rest of Global Works for making this such a meaningful trip for a very special teenager.

Lauren, Parent of Global Works Participant
I just wanted to thank you for everything you did to provide me with the most amazing experience of my life. We've only been home for 48 hours but I am missing Nicaragua and everyone in our group desperately! If you were to tell me a few years ago that I'd be spending 3 weeks in Nicaragua, I probably wouldn't have believed you. I was always shy and a little timid to try new things but this trip gave me so much confidence and has completely changed my life. I have a greater understanding of the world, of Nicaragua and a renewed appreciation on my blessed life.
Maggie, Nicaragua Participant
Words cannot express the depth of my gratitude for all you did in providing my daughter, Ali, with a safe and memorable adventure through Peru and Ecuador. Had it not been for your careful planning, time-consuming organization, emphasis on safety, and professionalism, Ali’s once-in-a-lifetime experience would not have been so positive. Thank you for your encouragement that helped her conquer her fears. Thank you for your patience when Ali was learning new skills. Thank you for your professionalism. But MOST OF ALL…Thank you for bringing my daughter home safely.

Phyllis Olson, Parent of Peru/ Ecuador Participant
Honestly I loved being able to bond so close with my homestay family as well as the larger community. I felt like everyone really had a lot of enthusiasm, especially since it was the first time any of them had interacted with us a Global Works group.
Anonymous, Costa Rica CGT Participant
The village portion of the trip was even more meaningful than I expected. I became so close with the family and was introduced to such an incredible culture that I would have otherwise never have been a part of.
Anonymous, Costa Rica CGT Participant
I learned the lifestyle, hardships and perseverance of Costa Rican people and they really touched my heart. My language skills were put to use. I learned that I have to make the best of a given situation.
Anonymous, Costa Rica CGT Participant
This experience allowed me to learn about Costa Rican culture and struggles that the Ticos face. I came to appreciate and value things I have at home that would be considered luxuries by Ticos. My Spanish skills greatly improved.
AJ Bishop, Costa Rica CGT Participant
My Global Works experience was an amazing trip that combined adventure and community service. I can honestly say that it changed my life in a positive way
AJ Bishop, Costa Rica CGT Participant
My favorite part of the trip was staying at the homestays because it was different than an average vacation in that we did construction work that benefited people other than ourselves.
AJ Bishop, Costa Rica CGT Participant
I learned to be thankful for what I have and to always help others. What we do can affect other people.
Anonymous, Puerto Rico CGT Participant
It is a wonderful opportunity for cultural exchange and experiential learning mixed with group laughter and reflection.
Wendy Blakemore, Teacher, Summit Middle School
The experience for the kids in the homestay and the cultural exchange that accompanied it were of great value. They felt very proud of their work and of their new friendships and learning.
Wendy Blakemore, Teacher, Summit Middle School
The trip was refreshing to get out of my comfort zone and learn living a simple “village” life is exciting and self-fulfilling without the constant demand of media, pop culture and technology.
Taylor Weissman, Fiji CGT Participant
I learned how far I could push my comfort bubble and that I need to appreciate what I have at home. I learned about love and generosity at the village that I will never forget.
Anonymous, Fiji CGT Participant
I enjoyed getting to become closer with all of my classmates and the leaders on the trip. I also loved the experience in the village. It was great becoming so close to the people in the village and getting to learn about their lives and it made me appreciate everything I have back home.
Anonymous, Fiji CGT Participant
Service travel inspires me to be a better person, and to extend giving even after the trip is over. It is a rare treat to see people living as they did hundreds of years ago as a solid community.
Julie James, Teacher, Webb Schools
The homestay was the most meaningful experience, and the hotels were perfect. The range of activities was well balanced for the teens, the homes were clean and comfortable, and the people were warm and loving.
Juli James, Teacher, Webb Schools
I learned that I am ready to be independent and comfortable in a new environment when I leave for college. I will use what I learned from this trip!
Anonymous, China CGT Participant
I learned that I can be away from home without feeling homesick. I feel that is a good thing because when I am applying to colleges, I have more of a range of schools instead of applying only near my house.
Anonymous, China CGT Participant
I think what I learned through my travels is that not only do I want to keep traveling, but also you have to take risks to experience a culture.
Melinda Barrett, China CGT Participant
I learned that I am actually more open to new things than I thought. I tried many new foods here and grew closer with some amazing people. This trip was an amazing experience and I will never forget it.
Anna Kosmaczewska, China CGT Participant
I honestly can’t pick a favorite part! The whole trip was fantastic, but specifically I loved the food the most. Also, Lama Temple was incredible and not expected at all. The trip leaders were so great and nice people. I think they are mostly what made the trip great!
Sabina Young, China CGT Participant
The best part of the trip was working with Ticos on projects – combined service with language and teen culture.
Karen Ginsberg, Teacher, Park Day School, CGT Costa Rica
I learned that I love new experiences and cultures and I am happiest when traveling this way, not in fancy hotels!
Karen Ginsberg, Teacher, Park Day School, CGT Costa Rica
We learned about the local language, traditions and customs in great details.
Anonymous
The homestay was my favorite part of the trip because I felt like I was emerged in French culture. I think my host family was a great match!
Anonymous, France Participant
It opened my eyes to much more of the world and it was amazing. Honestly a trip that I will never forget.
Shannon Lacy, Peru/ Ecuador Participant
I feel better prepared to enter the world in terms of self-awareness, cultural knowledge, and language skills.
Ian Lenk, Peru/ Ecuador Participant
By far, the most memorable summer of my life.
Samantha Schafer, New Zealand/ Fiji Participant
One of the best summers of my life. I’m sure I will never forget a day of it!
Nicole Brown, New Zealand/ Fiji Participant
My favorite part was the homestay in Fiji, to choose just one. I loved being immersed in the culture in an authentic way that I’ve never experienced on any other trip. After a few days, I no longer felt like a guest, I felt like family.
Samantha Schafer, New Zealand/ Fiji Participant
Challenging, fun, and it was definitely a productive way to spend my summer. I have no regrets!
Marion Xu, New Zealand/ Fiji Participant
My Global Works experience was amazing. I made lifelong friends and tried countless new things.
Emma Loebel, New Zealand/ Fiji Participant
It is impossible to pick a favorite part of the trip. I loved bonding with everyone and the mix of activitites allowed for all members of the group to enjoy time with each other. A few of my favorite activities were hiking in New Zealand and scuba diving in Fiji. I also loved the homestay.
Lauren Lubowitz, New Zealand/ Fiji Participant
The culture is incredible in every way. I love how everyone is very welcoming and friendly and loving. I hope that when I go home, I will look back at the way this trip has changed me and it will affect my future.
Anonymous, Nicaragua Participant
My GW experience challenged me and helped me become a more independent mature person.
Anonymous, Nicaragua Participant
Experience the extraordinary and give back to the community.
Jeff M., Nicaragua Participant
I learned about and fell in love with the Nicaraguan culture. I love the hardworking and dedicated spirit of everyone we met. All of the locals were so friendly and patient with us and I loved that we got to share so much.
Anonymous, Nicaragua Participant
This trip was the greatest thing that has ever happened to me. All of these new experiences have opened my eyes and changed the way I view the world.
Anonymous, Nicaragua Participant
My favorite part of the trip was all of the interactions with the locals. I hoped to make a difference through our service projects but never realized how much of an impact our interactions could have. Playing with the children was the most fun I’ve had in while.
Anonymous, Nicaragua Participant
Never had so much fun in my life. I never lived until this service trip.
Chas Yen, Nicaragua Participant
My favorite part of the trip was intermingling with local communities because nothing is more fulfilling than understanding and becoming part of such a lovely culture.
Chas Yen, Nicaragua Participant
My Global Works experience was extremely powerful and eye opening.
Anonymous, Panama Participant
I loved my experience with GW because they were very responsive, responsible and fun!
Anonymous, Panama Participant
I learned there are many similarities between American and Panamanian cultures. I also learned I can apply my Spanish classes and my skills improved.
Anonymous, Panama Participant
The Homestay was the best part because my family was caring and awesome!
Brandon, Panama Participant
My favorite part was the homestay because being so integrated in such a new culture was unforgettable.
Anonymous
Honestly, my best three weeks ever!
Anonymous, Panama Participant
I learned how different other places are from where I am from. I also learned that I had the ability to step out of my box and make friends and have fun.
Katie, Panama Participant
We changed people’s lives and my own.
Anonymous, China Participant
My Global Works experience was a wonderful experience. I feel that now I have a better understanding of China and its people and I felt that I left an impression on both.
Devon Zanler, China Participant
As cliché as it sounds, I just cannot pick my favorite part. I just spent a month in the place I’ve been dreaming about since I was a child.
Corey Zagone, China Participant
Being immersed in a culture different than mine is the most amazing and rewarding experience anyone could have.
Rebecca Hoogwerf, China Participant
My favorite part of the trip was visiting the orphanages. I felt very useful and giving, but I also enjoyed it for myself.
Taylor McGinnis, China Participant
Amazing because everyone in the group was kind and excited to try new things. Wonderful group of people to be with for a month.
Anonymous
Global Works was a memorable experience. I loved the trip because of the leaders, people, and fascinating places we’ve been to.
Anonymous, Spain Participant
I had an amazing time and I thing that traveling around with 15 different other kids is the best way to explore different places.
Anonymous, Australia Participant
Amazing because everyone in the group was kind and excited to try new things. Wonderful group of people to be with for a month.
Anonymous
My language skills improved, purely through immersion.
Lauren S., Spain Participant
My Global Works experience was very beneficial for me, I improved my language abilities and learned a lot about myself. I am glad I decided to go!
Ellen Cook, Spain Participant
It was incredible. I will never forget these two weeks. The people I met, service I did, things I saw, relationships I made, language and culture I learned.
Romy D., Spain Participant
The soccer training facility was my favorite part of the trip. It provided a good chance to have high level training while having a good time.
Ross Barron, Costa Rica Soccer Participant
We had the best leaders ever! I was able to connect with them so easily and that was so important.
Kyra K., Spain Participant
It was a life changing experience. It made me open my eyes to a different perspective and outlook on things. I made lifelong friends that I will never forget.
Theresa Giglio, Costa Rica Soccer Participant
Playing in a Costa Rican soccer tournament was amazing because it brought the whole community together and was really fun!
Zoe Snelling, Costa Rica Soccer Participant
My leaders were so amazing. They were fun, yet knew when to be serious..
Hannah Perrin, Fiji Surf Participant
I’ve learned so much about myself. I’ve grown up a lot on this trip and realized how blessed I am. I recommend everyone should do it!
Hannah Perrin, Fiji Surf Participant
My favorite part of the trip was becoming part of the community at the last ceremony because we came as guests but left as members.
Juliet, Fiji Surf Participant
This trip was extremely educational and fun for me. I had so many different types of experiences, from service work projects to touring, doing adventurous activities, hanging out with the group, and getting to know the natives of the country. I feel like I’ve learned, grown and matured a lot over this trip – I’m so glad I did this!
Anonymous, Argentina Participant
A really amazing opportunity to meet new friends, explore a country and do community service.
Anonymous, Argentina Participant
My favorite part was the skiing and snowboarding in Mendoza. The mountains were amazing and the snow was powdery!
Anonymous, Argentina Participant
An amazing trip that was nothing like I’ve ever experienced. It was awesome!
Anonymous, Argentina Participant
I loved the homestay because the families were so kind and the group really bonded while doing community service work.
Isabel Barry, Argentina Participant
This program is truly life changing. It is really worth it.
Annie Abrams, Spain Participant
Enjoy every minute, because it’s over way to fast. Also, don’t be nervous about your Spanish skills because it is okay to make mistakes.
Amanda Derdiger, Spain Participant
My favorite part of the trip was dinners with my homestay family.
Peter Sarnoff, Spain Participant
This trip was like nothing I’ve ever done. I learned so much and met great people and I am so happy I did it.
Oona Wallace, Spain Participant
Global Works helped me to have a wonderful summer that I will never forget for the rest of my life.
Ethan Gibbs, Spain Participant
Wow! I had an amazing time traveling through Spain, getting to meet new people, making friends for a lifetime and opening the doors to traveling in my life.
Jenna Hennessey, Spain Participant
The trip was phenomenal, the activities were fun and the leaders were kind. I really loved my time here in Spain!
Annie Abrams, Spain Participant
GO FOR IT! Don’t be afraid of not knowing anyone because no matter what you’ll come out of the trip with 18 new friends!
Paige Maurer, Australia Participant
The sites I’ve seen have been breathtaking and I’ve widened my comfort level so I now have the ability to achieve any goals I set.
Gabriella Shink, Australia Participant
This trip was filled with excitement, laughs and new friends!
Katie Gladstone, Australia Participant
For a kid who has already covered about half the globe, Debra had a sublime experience. Global Works has impressed and we'll be sure to let others know about it.
Debra Reynolds, Parent of Ecuador Participant
We love your programs- my daughter has been on two, and her younger sister will probably go next year. The leaders are superb, striking that delicate balance between being an authority figure and being a friend. My child has grown tremendously from your programs. We couldn't be happier, or recommend them more highly.
Nancy Caigan, Parent of Puerto Rico and Costa Rica Participant
Your organization is a class act. You are all very professional, well organized and have the right formula for adventurous teens. We will not hesitate to recommend Global Works to friends and family so that they too can enjoy the best summers of their lives!
Ricki Light, Parent of Costa Rica Participant
We are big fans of Global Works and would be happy to talk with any prospective families about the experiences our kids have had on three of your programs. We always feel very relaxed when we send them off with you - the strength of the organization, the high caliber of the leaders; the dependability and ongoing communication all contribute to the peace of mind for parents. Thanks so much - James was thrilled and we were, too!

Global Works experiences are growth producing well organized, led by high caliber individuals, and totally worthwhile. We are big fans!!

Amy Kahn and Jesse Parker, Parents of Spain Participant
The communication between the staff and parents is excellent, and the content of the program is simply extraordinary!
Lynne Carmickle, Parent of Ecuador Participant
Global Works is a program tailored to what teenage kids are interested in while still focusing on what parents are concerned about when sending their kids on any kind of a teen trip. Thanks so much for providing Charlie with a great experience.
Nadine Rosenthal, Parent of France Participant
The program is invaluable ... every child should do this at some point during their high school years.
Wendy Diehl, Parent of New Zealand/ Fiji Participant
GW is an excellent well-rounded program of language immersion, community service, travel and fun. I would recommend it to anyone!
Kris Granetz, Parent of Ecuador Participant
This is the best investment I have made in my son's education. He learned a lot of useful Spanish, and made lifelong friends along the way. He came back a more confident, independent person. Every aspect of the program was exceptional!
Parent of Argentina Participant
Thank you for taking good care of her, letting her explore, helping her learn, and opening up a new corner of the world for her.
Sabina and Andy Soloway, Parents Ecuador Participant
A very well organized, enriching experience for a teen ready to safely step a bit outside his/her comfort zone.
Don Kligerman, Parent of Costa Rica Participant
As a Mom, there are few things as wonderful as seeing your child come off an airplane with a happy smiling face and a thousand stories, each more exciting, that she can’t wait to share. Thank you so very much.
Lenore Alexander, Parent of Global Works Participant
My son, Russell, had a great time. I can't think of any improvements to make (unless there is a way you can cajole the kids into calling home more often!). I would heartily recommend Global Works!
Marianne Grandin, Parent of Costa Rica Participant
Our daughter came home saying, "It is amazing how beautiful a smile can be!" Thank you for letting our daughter, Phoebe, accompany you on this trip to Fiji! She and her "Fijian Mom" have already corresponded! This was a poignant expedition for her. She was seriously moved by her experiences.
Kathy Dillon Goldstein, Parent of Fiji Participant
I have nothing but the highest praise for the experience you gave my son, Kyle, on his Puerto Rico trip. He learned so much, and I was very impressed by the opportunities you provided, both service and fun. Your organization is excellent, and the communication with us equally excellent. I loved that you had a Puerto Rican counselor. Truly, I will recommend your organization to friends, students, and parents of my students.
Kit Beaudouin, Parent of Puerto Rico Participant
Everything was spelled out to perfection. The calendar was a wonderful idea especially for the parents and grandparents who I had given it to. It brought a smile to my face knowing my son was going to have a terrific time that day. I would recommend this program to everyone.
Jean Ehardt, Parent of Fiji Participant
We want to thank everyone at GLOBAL WORKS for providing Hannah with such an incredible and enriching experience in Costa Rica this summer. The five hour drive home from the Newark airport passed very quickly as we listened to Hannah's interesting stories about her trip with a great group of new friends. Then we enjoyed viewing her 317 colorful photos and learning even more about Costa Rica and Hannah's new friends, the dedicated counselors and her host family. The homestay provided her with the unique opportunity of becoming part of a caring family and a working member of a small rural community, so we can understand why leaving Pueblo Neuvo was such an emotional parting. The selection of this community clearly was beneficial in enhancing Hannah's Spanish speaking skills. The well-planned activities and eco-adventures also provided exciting opportunities for Hannah to have fun with her friends while learning more about Costa Rica. It sounds as if their enthusiasm and genuine concern for others exemplified the ideals of Global Works. We're very impressed with Global Works' efforts to provide meaningful and memorable experiences to teenagers while serving communities throughout the world.

Dan and Debbey Grow, Parent of Costa Rica Participant
Being able to perform this service touched my son’s heart.
Joe Wisniewski, Parent of Costa Rica Participant
This was a fantastic program for my son! He returned with lasting friendships, excellent life experiences exposing him to different cultures and economic conditions, and his Spanish improved considerably!
Jeff Randolph, Parent of Costa Rica Participant
I had a blast and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!
Alyssa, Puerto Rico Participant
My Global Works trip was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned so much about myself and the world I live in. There is also something really amazing about traveling with people your age. You have experiences that you couldn't have any other way. I loved the activities, service and the great people that I was exposed to. The trip was so cool I would recommend it to anyone who wants to try something new.
Hannah Gelbort, Costa Rica Participant
Thumbs up to the entire Global Works staff! They did a terrific job in both planning and knowing what the right choices for participants were. I would recommend taking a trip with Global Works at least once because you have no idea how much it will change the way you think about the world.
Adam Nicoletti, Global Works Participant
Global Works lived up to its word. I have been on other Spanish immersion programs but never did I think I could improve so much on my Spanish in such a short period of time. Everything we did was in Spanish. If you want to learn Spanish, meet some pretty cool people, and have a lot of fun then definitely stick with Global Works.
Ryan Greene, Costa Rica Participant
I learned I can push my comfort level and still be okay.
It is an amazing experience as long as you have an open mind. I love Global Works programs.
Lindsey Chetkof
If you're searching for a summer of adventurous fun, wild new experiences, and life-long memories (not to mention real opportunities to use your language skills or improve upon them) Global Works has what you're looking for!
Perrin Reed, Costa Rica Participant
I came back from this trip more culturally open-minded with the feeling that this trip definitely brought something to me and made me more mature. I also enjoyed the group and this very "family-like" atmosphere.
Zelie Gani-Fior, New Zealand/ Fiji Participant
I was actually AMAZED by how incredible your Global Works staff was. I am not kidding when I say that they were astounding in their genuine care, concern, and support.
Thor S., Panama Participant
For future students who are considering a Global Works program I would say absolutely GO FOR IT. I wouldn't give anything in the world for the experience I had. It will always be an eye-opening event in my life that I will remember forever.
Maura McInerney-Rowley, New Zealand/ Fiji and Puerto Rico Participant
This was the summer of a lifetime and I can't imagine anyone this program would not appeal to!
Amanda Levine, Puerto Rico Participant