Meet Our Local Guides, Field Directors & Student Life Coordinators
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Our Local Guides & Field Directors are the people who bring every destination to life.
What is the goal of our Local Guides & Field Directors?
Help you discover more about the world, yourself, and the positive impact you can make through educational travel that is both mindful and sustainable; offer you an unforgettable, hands-on experience that takes you beyond tourism for a meaningful exchange with other cultures.
What are our Local Guides & Field Directors responsibilities?
Meet you on arrival and support you throughout the module until you depart for your next destination.
Conduct an orientation with your group on arrival day to prepare you for the experience ahead.
Share important safety information and provide safety briefings as necessary; conduct safety checks of all hotels, transportation and program-sponsored activities.
Help students navigate local cultural norms and contextualize cultural differences.
Look after all on-program logistics, schedules, and the general welfare of the group.
Conduct walking tours and visits to cultural sights, providing commentary and a local perspective; make appropriate suggestions for free time activities that enhance the program’s educational content.
Create and maintain a positive and inclusive atmosphere for all participants.
Where are our Local Guides & Field Directors based?
All over the world! Our Local Guides & Field Directors are usually based in the country you're visiting or otherwise work there regularly, so they're experts in the local experience.
Our Student Life Coordinators are there to support you every step of the way.
What is the goal of our Student Life Coordinators?
Support the group dynamic as well as provide individual socio-emotional support on the ground. They will be present for the duration of the program and are available to encourage you to develop new relationships and support you in overcoming challenges, like homesickness.
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Local Guide Keith on the EF Gap Semester's Guided Exploration of Europe tour
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Tour Director Ivan is usually behind the camera, so this is a rare shot of him taking in the sights!
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Student Life Coordinators Bella, Camille, and Sami met up in London with their cohorts
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Service Learning Director with EF Gap Year students and staff in Bayahibe
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Student Life Coordinator Dan with EF Gap Year students in Iceland