Zoe Kayton
Zoe’s love for languages and travel began with her trip to Argentina in 2011 with Global Works. The year before, she had attended a Spanish immersion program in the USA, and it was so exciting to finally use her language skills to connect with new people. The year after traveling with Global Works, Zoe decided to take a gap year to work and travel. That year, she studied abroad in France for a semester before backpacking through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia in the spring and teaching middle school students in the summer. After majoring in French and Education Policy at Amherst College, Zoe participated in the Mississippi Teacher Corps program to earn a master’s degree while teaching high school French and social studies in rural Mississippi. Zoe has taught in Mississippi, Utah, Massachusetts, and Florida, so she is a lady on the move! She is excited to travel with Global Works this summer because she loves to mentor students and use language to encourage students to develop their leadership and confidence. In her spare time, she likes to read, spend time with family and friends, and be outside.
Where did you grow up?
South Florida
Where do you call home now?
I’m between places now! I last lived in Salt Lake City.
Year started at Global Works?
2023, but I went on a Global Works trip as a student in 2011!
What’s your favorite part about leading trips?
I love mentoring students and watching them grow in their self-confidence and language skills.
What’s something you can’t live without while you are traveling?
There’s something reassuring about feeling the weight of a heavy backpack and knowing everything you need is right there on your back.
Tell us about a favorite memory from a trip you have taken
I climbed a mountain in Bolivia that was over 17,000 ft tall. I felt like I could accomplish anything!
Where is your favorite place you have traveled to?
Annecy, France
Fun fact, special talent, or favorite memory
I took a gap year to travel and work after graduating from high school and before starting college.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to read, walk, listen to podcasts, spend time with my family and friends (including animals!), and be outside. I also participate in singing or dance classes on and off.
What languages do you speak?
I speak Spanish and French, and I’m learning Italian and Hebrew.
If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first travel experience, what would it be?
It’s not going to go exactly as planned! Embrace the unexpected and the opportunities that uncertainty gives you to learn and experience something new.