On each dynamic journey, students explore unique environments and cultures while studying marine science or a foreign language or embarking on an intensive community service adventure. Each course includes an important community service component, and several include a significant emphasis (up to 55 hours) on service work. Academic Treks students are fully immersed in an educational experience in a real world setting, gaining a global perspective and hands-on understanding of the topics studied. They also get a head start on college by earning college and/or community service credit and by building a host of skills they will use both in school and beyond.

Interwoven in the Academic Treks experience are the themes of teamwork, leadership and personal growth. Together with your team of 9-12 adventurers, you will take on challenges, master new skills, build confidence and gain insights into yourself, the world around you and your role as a world citizen. You will leave with a sense of achievement, an awareness of your own potential and an acceptance of different ideas, beliefs and cultures.