The GLA Staff-Student Connection

GLA’s Program Staff are so much more than chaperones- they are amazing role models for teenagers who have a passion for leaving a positive mark on our world. They are the people that make GLA’s life-changing summers possible, and their influence often extends far beyond a student’s summer abroad.

One GLA Staff Member recalls how new students overcome their anxieties every year...

“At the beginning of each program, there are students who are excited for a new experience, but many of them are also nervous, shy, or afraid to fully commit to being in a new place with new people. My wish for GLA students is that they are able to shed any insecurities that they may have and really dive into their program. Teenagers can’t even imagine the difference that these few short weeks will make in their lives- and the best part of working on the GLA staff is bearing witness to these incredible transformations.”

An Alum from Ghana: Building Healthy Villages remembers how inspiring the staff were...

“I have never participated in a program that put me in contact with so many amazing and inspiring people. No matter where you go, the project GLA sets up makes a very real difference in the community you live in and beyond."

One Student reflects on how his GLA mentor made his first night on a program one he'll never forget...

“We went to the courtyard with our Mentor groups ( I'm with Tim, he's very nice ) and played an icebreaker. Tim gave a nice speech about the trip and taking advantage of everything in Tanzania. Then we looked at the stars. It was so unbelievably clear. It was so beautiful."

A GLA Director sums up the incredible times he shared with his students over the summer...

"I’ve taken time to reflect on our visit to Peru and how much of a growth opportunity that it was (and can continue to be) for all of us. Many, MANY good memories fill me with pride and admiration for you guys... You guys always amazed me – keep it going."

This GLA Alum won't forget the cultural connections the staff helped the students forge...

"Part of the staff usually lives in the country year-round and knows their way around. For example: In Thailand, we got to eat Mother's day lunch cooked by our a staff member's family and we had the opportunity to help their neighbors plant rice. No other program is like GLA. They constantly keep you busy and active and give you an unforgettable experience."

Even Parents took notice of the connections made between staff and students...

“The impact that these three weeks made on our daughter were instantly recognizable and absolutely amazing. We are fully confident choosing GLA was unmistakably the correct option, and we offer our most sincere gratitude to each and every staff member that provided our daughter with such an important building block as she sets out soon to university and explores/experiences near-total independence.”

This Parent was especially impressed with the caring and compassion that went into each staff/student interaction...

“My daughter could not speak highly enough about all of the program staff and really felt like they cared about the group and their needs. The fact that the staff so openly shared their own experiences and encouraged the students to do so as well was also very moving for her. She was overwhelmed at the honesty and trust that was built among the whole group- staff included!”

Many staff members wrote letters to their students last summer, reflecting on their experiences together.

Check out these GLA memories on The Young Leader by selecting a program of interest and a 'letter to you.' These letters will show you just how well our staff members bonded with each and every student on their program.

Get to know our expert staff