Do I need wilderness or travel experience?
No. Many of our participants have never been on a wilderness program or traveled internationally. You do not need to have any experience camping, trekking, paddling or traveling. All we ask is that you come with an open mind, a desire to try new things and ready to have fun. Our instructors teach you all the skills you need one-step-at-a-time. Keep in mind, however, that Phase 1 of each journey is physically challenging and most students will want to do some conditioning before they arrive. Call for details on specific programs. Back to top
How long have you been doing the program?
Carlton Goldthwaite, Insights' Co-Founder, started working with young adults and designing adventure education programs for youths in 1987. Committed to experiential education, he designed Broadreach - a company that offers educational summer adventures for teenagers - in 1992. Since then, over 2700 teenagers have participated in more than 250 Broadreach summer programs. Insights was created in 2000 as a new division of Broadreach. After significant research and program design by seasoned Broadreach Program Directors, the first Insights trip ran the summer of 2001. Years of experience, planning and scouting go into developing each Insights course. Back to top
Will my college or university accept my Insights course credits?
All courses are designed to meet college level accreditation standards in which students earn a minimum of three academic credits (one course). Insights partners with Lesley University to provide an official transcript (there is an additional fee of $540). While it is ultimately up to your school to decide whether they will accept another institution's credits, most schools do accept transfer credits. If you are uncertain about your school's policies regarding credit transfer, we encourage you to discuss this issue with your study abroad office or advisor before enrolling. If you have not yet been accepted to a new school or university, this process can be done after you are enrolled. Back to top
Will my high school accept my Insights course credits?
In the fall after program, Insights will provide you with a transcript, as well as a letter detailing the course curriculum, syllabus and course hours for your high school administrator. Most schools accept the credits after reviewing this packet. Each academic institution has its own requirements, however, so we can't guarantee your school will accept the credit. We recommend asking for approval from your school administrator prior to program. Back to top
Am I going to be in a lot of lectures like school?
Not at all. You'll learn a great deal on an Insights program, but most of the learning is hands-on. When we do have more formal classes, they are interactive and lively, giving you the tools required to get the most out of the rest of the program. We believe learning should be fun. Back to top
Does Insights have rules we have to follow on program?
We do. And for the health, safety and well-being of our participants, we require everyone to abide by Insights' rules and policies. These rules and policies are discussed in the application, in forms you complete before program and in the conversations you have with us after you arrive. For example, Insights does not allow illegal drugs, drinking alcohol or inappropriate sexual behavior on our trips. These are examples of conduct that Insights considers detrimental to the program, and which can lead to your early dismissal. In addition to obvious health and safety concerns, we are aware that every family's value system is a little different and that the only way to resolve these issues for everyone is to eliminate them. Back to top
Where will I sleep?
It depends on which program you do. At least half of the time you will be camping in a tent, on a remote beach or even at 10,000 feet in the Andes. On other nights, you may find yourself in a local hacienda or a comfortable youth hostel-style dorm room. Each program is different, so please call for specifics on your trip. Back to top
What will I eat?
Experiential Education would not be the same without meals prepared by the group members. Everyone gets a chance to try their hand at being the chef and the pot washer. Meals are well balanced. In the wilderness, dried foods are supplemented with fresh vegetables, fruits and breads whenever possible. During other program phases the group is able to shop in the local markets and prepare meals together. Special dietary needs usually can be accommodated. On every trip there are opportunities to sample local cuisine and enjoy a meal in town. Back to top
Will I be with other people my own age?
We try our best to keep narrow age groups. Insights sets an age range for every trip so you will be with peers, both male and female, generally within a year or two of your own age or grade. Back to top
Where does everyone come from?
Insights participants are a diverse group comprised of young adults from across the USA and abroad. Although a large percentage of our participants are referrals and Broadreach alumni, very few know each other before the program begins and everyone walks away with new friends at the end of the trip. Back to top
Why are small groups so important?
We strongly believe limiting the size of any one trip to 10 - 12 participants creates a more dynamic, supportive and fun environment. Our small groups encourage unity and teamwork, enabling individuals to develop a sense of responsibility and leadership. We can give participants more individual attention when learning new skills. Finally, the small groups permit a flexible hands-on program, rather than one where every minute of the day must be scheduled in order to accomplish our goals. Back to top
Are airfare and spending money included in the tuition fee?
No. Tuition does not include airfare and it does not provide for spending money for souvenirs, extra meals or personal shopping. Back to top
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