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international engagement
Experienced-based learning for high school students on an international scale
global development
Equipping youth with the tools and skills needed to succeed in a global economy.
equitable study abroad
Quality study abroad and service programs regardless of socioeconomic status
Why study abroad?
Studying abroad opens up a world of possibilities during a pivotal time in a student’s life. They gain fresh perspectives, experience new cultures, and discover new interests that will forever impact the choices they will make as adults. Studying abroad is a unique opportunity for students to discover new depths of confidence they can call on later in life.
35%
of study abroad participants report a notable difference in their career plans
58%
of students who participate in study abroad programs pursue careers in other countries
73%
of employers view study abroad experience as an advantage in making hiring decisions
90%
of employers believe that students who study abroad possess highly desirable skills
Alumni Travel Locations
Group Travel Locations
800,000
miles traveled
Alumni travel destination
Alumni travel destination
Alumni travel destination
Alumni travel destination
Alumni travel destination
Alumni travel destination
Alumni travel destination
Alumni travel destination
Alumni travel destination
Travelling 2024
Our youth ambassadors will start their journey with a departure from Memphis international, arriving at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Ecuador. Global Ambassadors from 3 states: Mississippi, Tennessee, and Illinois will visit the Ecuadoran townships of Quito, Baños, Riobamba, and Cuenca.
Traveled December 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019
Our youth ambassadors experienced an unforgettable teen study abroad adventure in Ghana, West Africa! They kicked off their journey with a departure from Memphis international, arriving at Kotoka International Airport in Accra. Students represented over 20 schools from across the tri-state (Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi) region.
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Ecuador 2024
From cities to highlands, discover the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Ecuador. Strengthen your Spanish. Learn how melcocha candy is made during a workshop. Visit with a local community in Riobamba then learn how to dance the salsa in Cuenca—and these are just a few of the many cultural immersion activities you’ll experience while in this beautiful country.
Our Itinerary
Welcome & Orientation
Students meet their Tour Director at the airport in Quito, the Ecuadorian capital carved into a narrow plateau high above the Andean valleys and beneath the peaks of the Pichincha Volcano.
Field Trip Day: Quito
On a guided cultural tour, students will explore the colonial quarter of Quito. Travel to Quito will continue with exploration of Baños to see the New and Old Cathedrals.
Field Trip Day: Ingapirca
Travel to Ingapirca ruins and archaeological site for a hike to the Inca Sun Temple with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Ingapirca is the largest known Inca ruin in Ecuador.
Field Trip Day: Cuencca
Students will experience a walking tour of Cuenca, where they will see the Old Cathedral, New Cathedral, and the flower market. They will visit the Straw Hat Museum to learn about the traditional accessory and enjoy a traditional dance lesson.
350
Students introduced to study abroad
800K
Global miles traveled
20+
High schools represented
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One Step Initiative (OSI) introduces to our nation’s most underserved inner-city high school students study abroad and service learning opportunities for educational experiences and college credit.
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