It’s no secret that our clients inspire us. From May – August 2017, we helped plan trips for a variety of non-profit organizations who traveled to 6 different continents. In total, they sent more than 17,000 volunteers & students abroad this summer!
This week, we’re highlighting five of our clients who spent a portion of their summer studying, serving & experiencing other cultures around the world. We’re proud of the small role we could play in making these wonderful summer memories.
Serving in Central America & the Caribbean
Students from the University of Scranton had a blast serving abroad this summer in multiple countries including: Belize, Jamaica & the Dominican Republic. The teams spent time teaching in grade schools, constructing new facilities & feeding the hungry.
Exploring Education in New Zealand
This past May, Dr. Bill Kamm led a group of education majors from Lee University to learn about the public education system in New Zealand. The team traveled from Aukland to Christchurch, visiting multiple local schools to observe & interact with students & teachers. At each school, they were greeted with a Maori welcome ceremony, involving traditional singing & dancing. In New Zealand, the Maori culture is integrated into the compulsory curriculum.
In their free time, students also had the opportunity to enjoy a few sites like Lake Taupo & world-famous Hobbiton. Unfortunately, Frodo Baggins was nowhere to be found.
Missions in Madagascar
In June, members of Morning Star Fellowship served impoverished communities in Madagascar. The team delivered 18 suitcases full of supplies to local schools & ministered within surrounding villages. Group leader, Bruce Borgard, described the trip as “an amazing adventure.”
Trekking in the Andes
Virginia Military Institute History professor, Major Houston Johnson, spent a couple weeks trekking through the Andes Mountains in Peru with his father & close friend. The three hiked across 14,000-16,000-foot mountains with their guide, stopping at camp sites along the way. This was no small feat!
Studying Genomics in Iceland
Due to the island’s inherent isolation, Iceland is ideal for studying genetics. This summer, Augusta University’s Drs. Amy L. Abdulovic-Cui & Jessica M. Reichmuth led a group of Biology students to study the importance of genome sequencing & its connection with advancements in medicine. During their study abroad program, the group met with biologists to discuss the human genome & what causes common diseases like cancer.
While in Iceland, the students observed the country’s unique geological formations & geothermal phenomenons, including the Blue Lagoon & Skogafoss. They also had the opportunity to spend some time whale watching.
Check out last week’s post to see where our FTI Team jetted off to this summer. If you need to start planning trips for next spring or summer, request a quote online. Or, look through a few of our tour itineraries to spark your inspiration.
It’s a big world. Get out there!
Your FTI Team
www.fellowship.com
