Program Structure
EXPLORE
a new place and change the way you see the world.
Experiment programs follow a comprehensive structure designed to maximize the well-being of all participants while they engage in dynamic cross-cultural experiences. Each Experiment group follows the same four-part program structure: orientation, homestay, thematic focus, and reflection. Students are introduced and oriented to their host location by trained and trusted professionals before becoming immersed in their host communities.
During the orientation, you’ll start adapting to your host country by spending a few days in the capital or another major city to become oriented to your new environment. These first few days give you — together with your Experiment group — the opportunity to begin to absorb the customs, speak the language, and taste the new flavors of the host community as you open yourself up to new experiences before moving on to meet your host family. Learn more about the group orientation.
Through the homestay, you get to share in the daily life of a local community as a member of a family, not as a tourist. Periodically during the homestay period, you take part in cultural activities with your Experiment group members and host siblings. The homestay is a significant part of each Experiment program. Learn more about the homestay experience.
Whether you decide to pursue your artistic interests, participate in a community service project, explore historical settings, enhance your language skills, or experience natural and ecological sites, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in a deeply enriching aspect of your host country. You will meet and engage with local experts who will enhance your understanding of the culture and program theme. View all program themes.
You’ll conclude your Experiment by celebrating your experience while you reflect on all that you have learned and gained during the program. After returning home, you’re encouraged to share with your friends and family what you experienced and discovered and to consider how you can integrate what you learned about yourself and the world into your life moving forward. Learn more about the reflection and re-entry period.
