Testimonials
In their words
Maria Trujillo
Wheat Ridge, CO
Community Member + Solo Traveler
Salvador da Bahia, Brazil May 23-June 1, 2025
“I have recently returned from the most amazing trip to Bahia, Brazil with Global Citizen Adventure Corps – GCAC. This was my first time going on a trip with GCAC and will definitely not be my last. As a board member, I knew this organization was special and now that I have gone on a trip I have an even greater appreciation for what they are doing. As we all navigate through 2025, I suggest we should be spending more time getting to know one another – our stories, our cultures, our languages – rather than isolating ourselves.
Brazil is an amazing country and I am so thrilled to have spent some real time diving into the culture – it’s food, history, music, spirituality and language that makes this place so special. I would not have gotten the same experience on my own and would not have had the pleasure of meeting a group of incredible, passionate women from across the US. GCAC knows how to curated an enriching culture experience and have the most fun too! Over the course of next few post I will share how I spent 10 days in Bahia, Brazil.”
Corbin Huguely
Gleason, TN
Student + Charter Program
Merida, Mexico October 11 – 17, 2025
“Seriously, Mexico with Bethel University was one of the best things I’ve ever done. The Dual Enrollment part was cooler than I expected, but the actual trip was amazing. It was crazy to see the old Mayan ruins in person; you can’t really appreciate them from a textbook. We went swimming in the coolest cenotes, too. But talking to the families we met and hearing their stories was definitely the most intense part; I’ve never felt like a more privileged, oblivious person before. The reason it didn’t feel like an ordinary vacation was that we were still learning the whole time – about sustainability, about history, and how to be a good global citizen. Our guides were so smart and nice, and the program leaders always had everything under control. And all the things we were learning somehow connected to my classes, making everything click in a new way. Honestly, if you’re even thinking about doing a trip like this. Just do it. You’ll be a completely different person in the best way.”
Emeri Lee
Troy, TN
Student + Charter Program
England, France, Switzerland June 23-July 6, 2025
“An amazing memory I had on this trip was being able to interact with different people around the world and obviously the scenery. I may never be able to see those people again but I was intrigued to hear their stories as to why they are in Europe today. Others need to know about GCAC is that they offer something nobody else can do for you. The opportunities and experiences that come along with GCAC is something I will cherish forever. One reason I think this is true is because you learn so much with GCAC than you would just going with family . For instance in London I learned a cat was almost elected prime minister, in Paris photographs don’t do justice as to how big and beautiful the Eiffel Tower really is, and in Switzerland they have the 3rd highest mountain in the world and it usually snows all year around on that mountain. Go on a trip with GCAC you will not regret it. You will do so much in a short amount of days but it is all so worth it. I saw sides of the Palace of Versailles that would take people days to see and I saw it all in one day and I am truly grateful to have to done it with all my new friends and of course the chaperones”
Veronica Perkins
Little Rock, AR
Community Member + Solo Traveler
Salvador da Bahia, Brazil May 23-June 1, 2025
“This was not a vacation. It was a soul pilgrimage. Through every drumbeat, dance, and spiritual ritual, I connected with parts of myself and my ancestry that I craved to explore.”
Tori Serio
LaVergne, TN
Student + Solo Traveler
Salvador da Bahia, Brazil May 23-June 1, 2025
“I just got back from the most amazing trip ever in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. That place is wild!!! From museums and beaches to cooking and an African dance class, I still have two left feet, but at least now they’re Brazilian left feet. I was totally thrown into the deep end of their culture, I loved every second, and can’t wait to go back!!
But none of this would’ve been possible without Global Citizen Adventure Corps!!
From day one, they had our backs, making sure everything was safe, fun, and jam-packed with stuff I’d never try on my own. Met a bunch of strangers on day one, left with what basically feels like a second family. We laughed, learned, and made memories worth a lifetime.
SOOOO, to my friends…i know you love to travel..you know who you are..GCAC is worth the look. Doesn’t matter if you’ve got a passport full of stamps or if you’re just figuring out which suitcase to buy, this program’s got something for everyone. They don’t just show you a country, they make you feel like you belong there… which is hard to beat. Nothing more to ask for, but you have to bring me with you. Till next time Salvador, Tchau.”
Jessica Stricker
Clover, SC
Community Member + Solo Traveler
Cuba January 4-10, 2025
“I cannot recommend GCAC highly enough! Planning a trip to Cuba felt daunting, given all the potential challenges, but the team at GCAC turned my worries into excitement. Their extensive knowledge and well-established relationships made the entire journey feel effortless and enjoyable. From start to finish, they took care of every detail, allowing me to immerse myself fully in the experience. I’ve shared my wonderful experience with countless friends and family, encouraging them to consider planning their next adventure abroad with GCAC. They truly made my trip unforgettable!”
Shana Kirk
Denver, CO
Community Member + Solo Traveler
Cuba January 4-10, 2025
“GCAC provides condensed programs that are easy to schedule with a perfect balance of hands-on volunteering, deeply meaningful cultural immersion, and delightfully curated excursions. The small group size and highly experienced leaders and local guides make for a trip that doesn’t feel rushed or crowded. My trip was packed with enrichment in arts, culture, history, local life, food, and many opportunities to make local connections. Could not have asked for a better experience!”
Areli Alonso
Troy, TN
Student + Charter Program
Europe June 23 – July 3, 2024
“When we walked up to the top of Mt. Pilatus, I got to look down and see the landscape; it all looked so small and all of a sudden I felt so small and, in a way, unimportant. But the more I sat and looked around, the more I realized that I’m not unimportant because I am the most important person to myself. I think that other people should realize what an investment the GCAC program is, it’s an experience that will not soon be forgotten. I will use the things i’ve learned on this trip for the rest of my life and i’m so grateful for that. I think that global citizenship is an investment because not only is it an amazing opportunity but it can open so many new doors that we’re not even visible before. I think people should give trips by GCAC a try even if traveling is a big fear or if it does not seem feasible. If they cannot be a part of the trips they should try to learn about how helpful the idea of global citizenship is.”
Dre Funk
Martin, TN
Community Member + Solo Traveler
Merida, Mexico October 11 – 17, 2025
“Viva Mexico!! I knew Mexico had more to offer than Cancun, and was so excited to get into the country and learn about Mayan culture. I really enjoyed every cenote we went to, and how impactful and important these bodies of water were to the survival of ancient Mayan culture. I also really enjoyed trying new food that I am now going to take back with me to the states.
What folks should know about GCAC is this isn’t your run of the mill tour group, where little historical context could be given and you’re just shuttled from place to place. The founders and group leaders go above and beyond to make sure you learn about different cultures, and how diversifying your world view can only lead to a fuller life.
I am already a monthly contributor, but not only do I plan to increase my monthly amount, I am already planning on going to another trip with GCAC! This organization is like nothing I’ve experienced before, and I have traveled the world quite a bit on my own and with organized tour groups. If you like the idea of not having to plan your own trip, learning about cultures other than your own, and meeting fabulous new people, then GCAC is worth a shot!”
Jasmine Anderson
Obion, TN
Student + Charter Program
England, France, Switzerland June 23-July 6, 2025
“As a child, I dreamed of traveling, but I never invested much in the idea because it felt unachievable. This transformative opportunity to see Europe showed me that what once felt unachievable is actually within my reach. I can overcome my fears of leaving my comfort zone. Travel now means so much more than just going somewhere new to see the sights – it means gaining new perspectives, connecting with people who are different from me, and immersing myself in different cultures.”
Martha Edinger
Lakewood Ranch, FL
Community Member + Solo Traveler
Salvador da Bahia, Brazil May 23 – June 1, 2025
“Salvador da Bahia was life changing for me, and I thought I had a good world view.
This journey redefined empowerment for me.
To be embraced by the spirit of Salvador — to witness the brilliance of Black culture so alive and thriving and specifically its generational impact of women of African descent in this region— was an affirmation I didn’t know I needed.
I have been to more than 40 countries and participated in countless tours; this program offered by GCAC was hands-down the most educational and immersively impactful program I have ever been a part of; we were simply invited to be a part of this local community for nine magical days and I will never forget the experience.”
Isabella Hottes
Camden, TN
Student + Charter Program
Colombia March 3 – 9, 2024
“Teaching English in Colombia was more than a trip—it was a heartwarming, life-changing experience. Through Bethel University Global Studies and GCAC, I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Colegio Americano, our sister school in Colombia, and help teach English to local students. But what made it truly special was realizing we weren’t just teaching—we were changing lives, and they were changing ours. Every day in the classroom was filled with laughter, curiosity, and connection. The students’ eyes would light up when they learned a new word, and their excitement to share their own language with us was unforgettable. They were just as eager to teach us Spanish as we were to teach them English. The bond we built went beyond lessons—it felt like a family. One of the most heartwarming moments was when a student I’d been helping all week proudly stood up to read in English in front of the class. You could see the pride in their smile, and I’ll never forget that. Another one of my favorite memories is when one of the students asked to salsa with me at the end of class, it was such a sweet experience and an experience I could never trade for anything. Bethel University Global Studies and GCAC created a space for something truly meaningful—if you get the chance, take it. It will change you in the best way.”
Tonda Potts
Boulder, CO
Community Member + Solo Traveler
Salvador da Bahia, Brazil May 23-June 1, 2025
“I had never traveled internationally alone before, but I found myself feeling more connected to my surroundings and fellow travelers than ever. Every woman I met reminded me what strength and joy (or “Alegria” in Portuguese) looked like, and I will absolutely travel with GCAC again. I felt so strongly about my experience that I have offered myself as a future GCAC Board Member – I love the GCAC model!”
Rachel Libby
Union City, TN
Student + Charter Program
England, France, Switzerland June 23-July 6, 2025
“I don’t think I fully understood what a global citizen is until we went on the trip. A lot of the other students felt this way, too. Then, we saw so many people, and, when you do, you realize it’s not just you in the world. We think where we are living is all there is. And it’s not.” Now she says she sees a global citizen as someone who “immerses themselves in different cultures and sees the beauty of everything else and, as a result, finds a greater appreciation for their own life and the lives of others.”
Chloe Isbell
Charlotte, TN
Student + Charter Program
Italy May 26 – June 5, 2024
“GCAC scholarships help us make dreams happen. It gives an opportunity that may not have happened otherwise. Serving makes me feel as good as one can.”
Ruth McCluskey
Ashland, MO.
Community Member + Solo Traveler
Salvador da Bahia, Brazil May 23-June 1, 2025
“My sister and I arrived back in the US safely this morning after an incredible trip to Brazil with Global Citizen Adventure Corps. We chose this trip because our lifelong friend and world-renowned percussionist, Dr. Julie Hill, invited us. I cannot say enough about the quality of our experience! We met so many wonderful people, both within our tour group and also within the city we visited, Salvador de Bahia. We learned so much about the history, culture, and music of this region. The accommodations were perfect and everything was very well-organized. Julie was very attentive to all of us and is so knowledgeable about international travel and this region in Brazil. We definitely plan to book another trip soon with GCAC. “
Evan Jospeh
Bruceton, TN
Student + Charter Program
Guatemala October 13-20, 2024
“We did some volunteer work and got to know the local people, who were super friendly and welcoming. We also checked out awesome cultural stuff, like markets and historical sites, which helped me understand Guatemala’s rich history better. The staff made sure everything went smoothly, and the whole experience changed my perspective on global citizenship. I definitely recommend Global Citizen Adventure Corps if you’re looking for an adventure that actually means something!”
Morris Anderson
McKenzie, TN
Community Member + Solo Traveler
Paris, France 2025
The sights and locations were plentiful and enlightening. The addition of guides to further our knowledge were so very enriching. Our team leader—Stacie—was very alert to our needs. As a 78 year old, she made important, spontaneous decisions for the older crowd.
Tori Shepherd
Greenfield, TN
Community Member + Co-Leader
Guatemala October 13-20, 2024
“I was exposed to experiences that I have never had before and ones that I could not describe if I tried. We volunteered at a school, were welcomed into a Guatemalan home for a cooking lesson, visited Mayan ruins, went ziplining, and hiked Pacaya volcano eating pizza cooked in lava to name a few.… From now on when I book a service learning trip or tourism trip, it will be through GCAC every time.”
In Their Words:
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