Gap Year FAQs
How independent are the students,and is there a local coordinator in each location?
In each location, the student has both a host family and an local Gogi Coordinator to rely on for support, ideas, transportation, and cultural outings. We believe that exploring the land and culture independently is a great learning experience, and the student has many opportunities to follow interests, develop projects, and pursue new experiences. Students stay in close communication with both the local coordinator and the home Gogi office, and together, a unique cultural experince is crafted based on the interests of each student.
How does language study work during the year?
There will be a language instructor in each location to facilitate your DYNAMIC CULTURAL COMMUNICATIONS in Spanish, Swahili and Nepalese.
Language is a large part of the curriculum during this Gap Year. Students will describe themselves at the beginning of their stay with a tribe; writing about their feelings, observations and identity at the beginning of their stay, and again at the end of the stay, noting how they may have changed. You will write about how you may (or may not!) identify with each particular tribe. The writing is initially done in English and by the end of the stay is done in the native language as well. Self-awareness is a big component of Gogi Abroad and incorporating the native language of each place greatly enhances this.
Our program emphasis is focused not solely upon the academic language, but the spoken language, the dialect components, and the language of a place and culture. Students will have daily language classes with a teacher from each of the four locations. This tutelage will help students connect and engage more fully with the people, culture and history during each of their stays.
How does Gogi communicate with parents and students during the trip?
Communication is an essential element of Gogi program success. Through messaging apps and phone conversations, Liz is in frequent communication with host families, students, and parents. Especially during transitions and travel days, Liz is an active communicator with all parties to ensure that all details are covered and the student is packed and prepared for smooth travels.
What's the packing list like, do I need special equipment?
With a single backpack, this trip around the world is an exercise in minimalism. An unlocked cell phone is the most important piece of equipment, and each student builds a comprehensive first-aid kit with the assistance of their personal doctor. Beyond that, the packing list is simple and basic, ensuring that the Gap year student moves easily and comfortably on their journey around the world.
What about shots before the trip, and medical issues during the trip?
It is required that Gap Year students are fully immunized with the recommended American immunizations, plus some additional immunizations as recommended or required for the different countries. Planning for the process needs to begin at least six months before the trip, and consultation with qualified Travel Clinic is required. A clinic specializing in travel will also prescribe several types of anitbiotics to be carried in the first-aid kit.
Gogi Abroad’s Tribal Gap Year is for all young adults age 18-22, looking to immerse themselves in ancient cultures through independent world travel.
Do I need to be enrolled in college, or planning to go to college for this Gap Year?
When does the program begin?
The eight month program typically begins in October and runs through May, but the schedule can be adapted in either direction as needed.
How much does the Tribal Gap Year cost? Are scholarships available, or payment plans?
The 2018-19 tuition for the eight month program, including all room and board, language instruction, and local transportation and cultural activities is $17,000. Airfare, medical/travel insurance, visas, SIM cards, and entrance fees to national parks are additional costs.
We offer a payment plan, and encourage students to apply for a scholarship.