GEC is a proud member of the Southwestern Family of Companies (www.southwestern.com), founded in 1855. We have been a designated sponsor of the U.S. Department of State’s cultural exchange programs for more than 20 years. Each year we help thousands of individuals from around the globe safely participate in U.S. cultural exchange and global student travel programs.
Our mission is to help young people develop the skills and character they need to achieve their goals in life.
Taking a school trip is a great chance to inspire and educate your students. Here at GEC, we are committed to creating an unforgettable experience. With our dedication to excellence and love for enriching educational journeys, we assure you of unparalleled support and service at every turn. Here's how we keep our promise;
Our approach to gap years goes beyond just filling time. It's about creating a transformative experience that fuels your personal growth and sets you on a path to success.
We believe in the power of experiential learning, where you trade textbooks for real-world adventures. Through a dynamic blend of service learning, cultural immersion, environmental conservation, and outdoor exploration, you’ll gain valuable skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving – all while making a positive impact on the world around you. Imagine yourself volunteering alongside a local community, fostering cultural exchange with a homestay family, or trekking through breathtaking landscapes. These immersive experiences will challenge you, broaden your horizons, and help you discover the person you’re meant to be. With GEC Gap Year, you’ll return home not just with incredible memories, but with the confidence and clarity to navigate your future with purpose.
At GEC, exploration goes hand-in-hand with responsibility. We believe in traveling with a conscience, minimizing our footprint while maximizing positive impacts on the places we visit. Our commitment to responsible travel ensures we explore destinations with respect for the environment, local communities, and their rich cultural heritage.
Imagine immersing yourself in a new culture with the utmost respect, fostering genuine connections with locals and their traditions. We prioritize responsible interactions, supporting local businesses and artisans whenever possible. This not only benefits the communities we visit but also fosters a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity among our travelers. Environmental stewardship is also paramount. Every decision we make is guided by a commitment to sustainability. Whether it’s minimizing waste through responsible consumption, choosing eco-friendly transportation options, or opting for energy-efficient accommodations, we strive to leave a positive impact on the planet for generations to come.
At GEC, we prioritize the health and safety of our participants on every project. We understand that traveling to new destinations can come with unforeseen circumstances, so we take a comprehensive approach to ensuring your well-being throughout your adventure. This starts with our highly trained leadership team. Project leaders are not just experienced travelers, but also possess certifications in wilderness first aid and CPR. They undergo rigorous training to anticipate and handle potential health situations, and are equipped with comprehensive medical kits containing essential supplies for minor injuries and ailments.
