Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Global Reach™ Arts and Culture Camp:
Who can participate in Global Reach™?
To join Global Reach™ for the first time, you can be from anywhere in the world, but you need to be aged 16-20 on the first day of the program. Speaking English is not necessary, but we suggest you learn some simple English before joining us!
How many participants attend Global Reach™ each summer?
It depends. First, we need to emphasize that Global Reach™ is organized by an award-winning, nonprofit performing arts organization, Sounds of Hope, Ltd., which is mission-driven to reach diverse audiences with messages of global understanding and cultural celebration. In Global Reach™ we believe that working with a smaller group of young adults helps creating stronger connections amongst participants as well as giving them a quieter environment that should increase the quality of the rich cultural experience we offer. The total number of participants joining the program may vary from year to year, but the Global Reach™ company is usually made of twenty to thirty participatns, plus our staff crew.
How hard is it to get into Global Reach™?
Admission into Global Reach™ is somewhat selective. There are more applicants than places. For program reasons, we seek diversity, and we look especially for young adults who are motivated, energetic, and friendly – people who will benefit from and appreciate the global living experience and opportunity offered by Global Reach™.
Is Global Reach™ right for me?​
Are you friendly? Are you curious about the world? Do you enjoy visiting museum and parks? Are you considering studying in the us? Do your parents and you appreciate the value of an experience that will prepare you to be a global citizen and a greater understanding of U.S. culture? Do you care about people and the future of the world? Do you treat others respectfully? Are you open to differing viewpoints? Would you like to understand others better? Would you like to look back at your summer and say, “Wow, I changed, I learned, and I grew?” Would you enjoy having friends all over the world? From your answers to these questions, you will know if Global Reach™ is right for you :)
Who is on staff?
Global Reach™ has an outstanding, dynamic, and experienced staff. The senior staff is led by our co-founders, Jeanne Junge and Tom Surprenant. A unique and wonderful aspect of Global Reach™ is our staff Junior Team. The Junior Team members (or JT's) are all past participants of Sounds of Hope, Ltd. Camps. The JT’s lead activities, supervise free time, assist in touring, and act as role models, mentors, and friends. The Junior Team program offers an outstanding advancement and growth opportunity for older Sounds of Hope, Ltd. participants who want to hone leadership skills while taking on new and more challenging artistic roles. You become a JT by invitation only.
How much personal attention do you get?
Lots. As just discussed, we have an amazing staff of JT’s made up entirely of past participants. The youngest youth leaders are “apprentices” in training for Junior Staff positions. They, too, act as mentors and experienced guides for the younger kids. The Junior Team members are everywhere – leading learning sessions, attending rehearsals both as leaders and fellow performers, supervising free time, solving problems, and teaching by example.
Is room and board included in the fee?
Yes, the Fee includes room and board. Global Reach™ creates an international “family” in the dorm. Participants will find themselves helping with meals (prepared and served in the dorm) and other aspects of daily living. Special dietary needs are accommodated.
Where do we stay?
We all live together in a dormitory on the campus of Concordia University. Global Reach™ is not affiliated in any way with the University or with any religion. Concordia University is located in a quiet, residential neighborhood of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Saint Paul is part of the large Minneapolis/Saint Paul (or Twin Cities) urban area. There are many advantages to being part of an urban area full of cultural, sports, and recreational opportunities. Participants live in a big room, with 3-4 roommates from different countries.
Who is eligible for a scholarship?​
You start the process by sending in your regular application. At the same time, you should contact us and tell us you're interested in a scholarship because you don’t think you can pay the full Fee. We will then send a financial aid application and information about scholarships. We cannot offer scholarships to everyone who needs one, but we do our best to make Global Reach™ available to as many participants as possible regardless of financial situation. We calculate the amount of scholarships we award to any one applicant based on objective formulas, but we also pay attention to any special financial problems you might have. Don’t be afraid to apply because the Fee seems too much. Your application deposit is refundable and a scholarship may be available!
Do I receive an acknowledgment of my application?
Once we receive your application, you will be e-mailed an acknowledgment note that includes a reminder about your application deposit if you didn’t pay it with your application.
What do I need to do if my application is accepted?
With your acceptance packet, you will receive all the information needed to complete your registration and to get yourself ready for what may prove to be the most exciting new experience of your life – living and exploring U.S. culture. Your first time as a Global Reach™ participant!