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One Step Initiative

Education Beyond Borders.

Study Abroad

Study abroad in 2025 with One Step

We create group travel opportunities for the nation’s most under-served high school students.

Study abroad continues to be one of the most effective and beneficial aspects of experience-based learning. Become a global citizen, make new international friends, and become a stand out on any college/career application all while learning a new language.

Stay with host families

Students get the benefit of a true immersion in local culture by staying with a host family

Experience a new culture

Students are exposed to new customs, cuisines, and ways of experiencing life

Learn a foreign language

Students have the opportunity to learn and practice new languages

Alumni Travel Locations

Group Travel Locations

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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.

Our Selection Process

For each travel segment, our leaders integrate a six-month development program along with a student orientation, parent discussion, and debriefing. We’re seeking motivated, enthusiastic students with the ability to turn their study abroad travel into a truly life changing experience.

How To Qualify

Completed Application

One letter of recommendation (Must be from high school teacher or guidance counselor).

One student bio written by participant. Minimum of 300 words (Should include student interests, goals, expectations).

Meet the minimum age requirement (15-18),

3.0 GPA (Measured on a 4.0 GPA scale or an explanation if lower).

Current medical history information

$150 participant application fee (Following interview and OSI Acceptance Letter).

Parental involvement

*Subject to change based on custom program and/or adjustments in program schedule.

Travel Stories

Stories of our students, interns, and chaperones about their experiences of global travel and culture.

What are the benefits of studying abroad?

Perspective

Expand their world view and travel experience

Career Outlook

Enhance their career opportunities with invaluable experience

Communication

Strengthen communication, team building, and adaptability skills

Culture

Experience and learn another culture firsthand

Global Network

Make new friends and connections around the world

Language

Learn another language and dialect

Discovery

Discover new things about their own culture

Leadership

Boost student’s confidence and community leadership

35%

of participants report a notable difference in their career plans

58%

of participants in study abroad programs actively 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 more desirable skills

Ready to take the next step?

Join us in our mission today

How to Partner With Us
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