We are
writing to you to share about Global Engagement Studies Institute (GESI), and
to ask that you do the same with your students. As you may
know, GESI is a unique, credit-bearing program that combines
experiential-learning, study abroad, cultural immersion, and international work
experience at dynamic, community-based organizations.
We hope
that you’ll help us spread the word about this program by forwarding the
following information to students and student groups who may be interested.
Are you
passionate about global change, committed to learning by doing, and ready to
engage in hands-on global development?
GESI
will equip students to
- Work directly with local communities and community
organizations in Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, Kenya, Nicaragua, India,
South Africa, or Uganda
- Earn two Northwestern course credits (the equivalent to six
semester credits)
- Live with a host family and immerse yourself in another
culture for eight weeks
- Work in teams of undergraduates to design and implement a
development project collaboratively in microfinance, social enterprise,
education, environmental sustainability, global health, and more
Engage
directly with local communities:
GESI
2014 - Uganda:
GESI
participants worked with community members and a rural development group to
assist a community with income generation. The community’s sole source of
income is selling fish they’ve caught and dried on the shore, though the drying
process is long, unsanitary, and usually results in significant portions of
soiled fish. The GESI team used regional case studies to design a solar
dryer for the community’s fish, using locally sourced materials, thereby saving
time, effort, and ensuring a more sanitary product. The team and
community worked together to build the solar dryer, and materials that explain
the building process for further replications. They also assisted the
community in creating a nutrition garden, as well as organic fertilizers and
pesticides.
GESI
2014 - Bolivia:
The
team worked with a local NGO that serves families and their children with
disabilities by providing therapy and information about legal rights access to
opportunities. Appointments with the NGO staff were often missed by
parents, due to a lack of understanding about the importance of
treatment. The GESI team worked to dissolve the stigma surrounding
disabilities by creating and providing materials for families to learn about
the rights of their children under Bolivian law. They also ensured videos
educating families about their rights and the needs of their children, are
shown throughout the NGO.
Ready
to take the next step?
Applications
are accepted on a rolling basis. Early deadlines are December 15, 2014
and January 15, 2015, for guaranteed first choice placement if accepted into
the program.
Final
deadline is March 1, 2015, but please apply early, as spaces will fill.
If you
have questions and want to speak to a member of the GESI staff, please contact
us at gesi@northwestern.edu or 847.491.5932.
We hope
to hear from you soon,
The
GESI Team
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