2017 INSPIRE Guide

PROFESSIONAL

ECO-ADVENTURE

INTERNSHIPS

SERVICE

RELATIONSHIPS

I N SPI RE GUIDE

NEW EXPERIENCES

IMMERSION

INSPIRE

14-21 NOVEMBER

2017

experiences designed to promote the maximum potential of its students.

OUR MISSION The American School of Dubai’s mission is to challenge and inspire each student to achieve their dreams and to become a passionate learner prepared to adapt and contribute in a rapidly changing world.

CORE VALUES Compassion | Excellence | Integrity | Respect | Responsibility STUDENT PROFILE Thinker | Communicator | Contributor | Learner | Leader & Role Model CONTACT P.O. Box 71188 Dubai, UAE +971 4 395 0005 ext. 4011 inspire@asdubai.org www.asdubai.org

CONTENTS

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

WELCOME FROM DR. LEEVER

The mission of the American School of Dubai is to challenge and inspire each student to achieve their dreams and to become a passionate learner, prepared to adapt and contribute in a rapidly changing world.

INSPIRE Week, which is November 14 - 21, 2017, is about fulfilling the mission of ASD in authentic ways, and exposing our students to new and exciting opportunities.

Welcome 03 Purpose 04 Learning Outcomes

04

At A Glance

05

Trip Providers and Categories

07

Timeline, Eligibility 10

Through INSPIRE Week, we aim to expose our students to those things that we believe will instill passion in them, dare them to adapt, inspire them to contribute and to dream about rapidly changing the world. We are thrilled to embark on this journey together.

Have a wonderful INSPIRE Week,

Steven Leever Steven Leever, Ed. D.

Expectations and Responsibilities 11 Health and Safety

13

Important INSPIRE Policies

14

Frequently Asked Questions

15

High School Principal

Immersion

New experiences Service

Professional

Sample Student Expectations and Waiver for Overnight Travel Form

INSPIRE Week has been designed to do just that: to create a series of incredible, life altering experiences for the students of our high school. As you read through this guide, imagine the possibilities, but keep in mind your broader goals. Undoubtedly, this trip will have profound impact on you for years to come and you should carefully consider what it is you would like to take from this experience.

16

Internships

Relationships

Sample Disclosure, Waiver and Release Form

17

INSPIRE Trip Options

18

INSPIRE

and Trip Selection

3

Eco-adventure

4

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

PURPOSE STATEMENT INSPIRE extends the school experience to promote personal growth, challenge assumptions, explore passions, transform relationships, and build community.

LEARNING OUTCOMES INSPIRE is a unique opportunity meant to help students demonstrate a passion for learning and contribute in a rapidly changing world by addressing a challenge, an opportunity or a situation. To meet the interests of our high school students, a diverse range of opportunities in both focus and geographic location has been compiled. No matter the INSPIRE trip, students will have the opportunity to contribute and improve our world while also further exploring their passions.

Students’ growth through the INSPIRE experience will be demonstrated through reflection and journaling. The self-assessment performed by students will be affirmed and validated by the INSPIRE teacher trip leaders through their own reflective narrative crafted at the end of the experience.

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

INSPIRE AT A GLANCE (NOVEMBER 14-21, 2017) TYPE OF TRIP

ELIGIBILITY

GROUND ACCOMMODATION COST**** excl airfare

PHYSICAL RIGOR*

10-12

$$$

Hotel

Easy

China - Through the Lens

9-12

$$

Hotel

Moderate

Croatia - Culture, Conflict and Resolution

9-12

$$$

Hotel/Guest House

Easy

Hungary and Austria - Music Experience

9-12

$$

Hotel

Easy

Iceland - Northern Lights

9-12

$$

Hotel

Moderate

Italy - Food Technology

9-12

$$

Hotel

Easy

Japan - Ancient, Traditional and Modern Urban Culture

9-12

$$$

Hotel

Moderate

Jordan - Adventure and Arabic

9-12

$$

Hotel

Moderate

Myanmar - Documenting Democracy

9-12

$$

Hotel

Moderate

NYC - Theater and More!

9-12

$$$

Hotel

Low

Poland - Step Back in Time

9-12

$$

Hotel

Easy

Republic of Ireland - Literary and Cultural Adventure

9-12

$$

Hotel

Easy

Spain - Spanish Service Adventure

9-12

$$$

Hotel

Easy

Cambodia - Adventure and Service

9-12

$$

Homestay/Hotel

Moderate

Hong Kong - Amazing Race

9-12

$$

Hostel/Camping

Mod/High

Indonesia, Bali - Conservation

9-12

$$

Hotel

Moderate

Kenya - Safari

9-12

$$$

Guest House/Camping

Moderate

Maldives - Diving Adventure

9-12

$$$

Beach/Guest House

Moderate

Myanmar - Cycle, Summits and Service

9-12

$$

Guest House/Hotel/Camping

Mod/High

Nepal, Mardi Himal - Trekking

9-12

$$

Camping/Hotel

High

Nepal, Mohare Danda - Trekking

9-12

$$

Camping/Hotel

High

Romania - Re-Wilding Europe

9-12

$$

Guest House/Hotel/Camping

Moderate

Sri Lanka - Safari and The Sea Experiential

9-12

$$

Hotel/Camping

Moderate

Tanzania - Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb

11-12

$$$$

Camping/Hotel

Very High**

Indonesia, Bali - Global Health Initiative

9-12

$$

Homestay/Bungalow

Moderate

Switzerland - Leadership Adventure

9-12

$$

Lodge

Mod/High

Thailand - Medical Service and Certification

9-12

$$

Lodge

Moderate

ACADEMIC U.S. East Coast - College Tour

ART - CULTURE - HISTORY

ECO-ADVENTURE

LEADERSHIP/PROFESSIONAL

5

6

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

TYPE OF TRIP

ELIGIBILITY

GROUND ACCOMMODATION COST**** excl airfare

PHYSICAL RIGOR*

Cambodia - Floating Village

9-12

$$

Hotel/Homestay

Moderate

India - Wild Life Conservation

9-12

$$

Volunteer Qtrs/Hotel

Moderate

Kenya - Service that Makes a Difference

9-12

$$

Lodge

Moderate

SERVICE

Laos - Mekong Base

9-12

$$

Lodge

Moderate

Laos - Building Houses to Sustainable Future

9-12

$$

Hotel/Homestay

Moderate

Malaysia - Borneo

9-12

$$

Rustic Lodge/Hotel

Moderate

Mongolia - Greenhouse Service Project

9-12

$$

Guest House/Camping

Moderate

South Africa - Cape Town Service

9-12

$$

Hotel

Moderate

Thailand - Elephant Village Initiative

9-12

$$

Rustic Lodge

Moderate

Uganda - Pearl of Africa

9-12

$$$

Camping

Moderate

Vietnam - Building and Exploring

9-12

$$

Hotel/Homestay

Moderate

A-List - SAT/ACT, Intensive Workshop (ASD)

10-12

$$$

None

Easy

Academic Workshop (ASD)

9-12

$

None

Easy

Adventure Camping and Turtle Spotting (Off Site)

9-12

$$

Camping

Mod/High

ASD Suvivior Challenge (Off Site)

9-12

$$

Camping

Mod/High

College Application Boot Camp

12

$

None

Easy

College Discovery and Exploration

9-11

$

None

Easy

Culinary Adventure (Off Site)

9-12

$$$

None

Easy

Dubai, Paris of the Middle East (Off Site)

9-12

$- $$$**** None

Easy

Dubai, Today and Tomorrow (Off Site)

9-12

$-$$$****

None

Easy

Global Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ASD)

9-12

$$$

None

Easy

ITEC - SAT/ACT Intensive Prep Course (ASD)

10-12

$$

None

Easy

Job Shadow (Off Site)

9-12

$

None

Easy

Scuba Diving - PADI Certification (ASD/Offsite)

9-12

$$

Hotel

Moderate

Student Leadership Academy (ASD)

9-12

$

None

Easy

UAE OPTIONS

Cost Scale in AED: $ (0-3,699); $$ (3,700 - 6499); $$$ (6,500 - 9,499); $$$$ (9,500 - 13,000) *Physical Rigor: Low (Walking); Moderate (Hiking, Kayaking, Camping); High (Mountain Trekking and Climbing) **Kilimanjaro Climb: Very high rigor and will require physcial and altitude training. ***Price Range: Dependent on number of students who sign up ****Ground Cost: Does not include the international airline cost

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

Trip Providers

7

Providers chosen for INSPIRE are reputable organizations with strong histories and experience in guiding student learning trips.

A-List Dubai is an innovative educational services provider founded in 2014 to deliver elite university preparation to the Gulf region.

We take a personal approach to test preparation and university advising, building curricula tailored to students’ individual needs.

Our dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure students from all backgrounds achieve their academic goals and are prepared for their educational futures. www.alisteducation.com/uae/ Absolute Adventure is an award winning Dubai-based adventure tour operator, founded in 2005. Operating out of multiple adventure centers in the UAE and Oman, Absolute Adventure enjoys unique access to some of the most beautiful areas of the country, including protected wildlife reserves. Its progressive programs and school expeditions are specially designed to develop independence, leadership, communication and team working skills in students of all ages. Its programs are delivered by a team of over 40 specialized outdoor learning instructors via a range of adventure activities such as rock climbing, high ropes, bouldering, kayaking, paddle boarding, mountain biking, archery, geo-caching, orienteering and bushcraft/survival. As members of the Institute of Outdoor Learning and the Leave No Trace Centre for Outdoor Ethics, students also gain a deeper understanding of the environment around them and how to protect it. Serious Adventure, Serious Fun! www.adventure.ae Asia Pacific Adventures, based in Hong Kong, specializes in outdoor experiential learning and has been a leading provider in Asia for over 15 years. Using the outdoors as classroom, the company incorporates innovative, high-impact and meaningful programs with a focus on personal and team development. Its programs take place around some of the most exciting locations in Asia and are led by an international team of passionate and experienced staff. www.asiapacificadventure.com Camps International is an international volunteer travel operator headquartered in the United Kingdom and Dubai. Founded in 2002, Camps International builds permanent volunteer accommodation camps within Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, Borneo, Cambodia, Ecuador and Peru. It provides volunteer trips, adventure expeditions and educational volunteer expeditions for school groups. The company employs over 150 local people from the communities surrounding their camps. www.campsinternational.com

8

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

Club Europe is the UK’s leading school tour operator. A family-owned company, they have been organizing bespoke school trips worldwide for students from around the world since 1980. Club Europe specializes in school music tours, school ski trips and sports tours as well as a wide range of curriculum-focused educational school trips. The company takes great care in ensuring trips are tailored to meet the needs and requirements of each individual group.

and Beijing, this full service tour provider offers tailored trips according to each teacher’s objectives: from language learning or cultural tours to more advanced CAS trips, Residentials and Activity Weeks. In 2016, The Dragon Trip won an award for Best Educational Product in the British Youth Travel Awards and has taken over 1,100 young people on school trips from four different continents to a range of destinations across China.

www.club-europe.co.uk

www.thedragontrip.com

Venture for All® is a global initiative whose mission is to enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem in emerging and frontier markets through education and mentorship. Its programs educate and train young aspiring entrepreneurs to become enterprise builders and job creators; prepare and educate the small and family-owned business owner for the next stage of growth; and create marketplace development strategies for high potential corporate managers.

Ecofieldtrips is an established field trip provider, which has been educating and inspiring students since 1997. The company’s trips are tailored to meet the requirements of individual schools. Whether it be fun ecosystem introductions or service projects, students receive a hands-on experience.

The diverse staff is comprised of biologists, geographers and outdoor educators from around the world who want to foster and instill positive attitudes toward the environment.

www.youngmindsonline.com/columbiaVFA/

www.ecofieldtrips.com.sg

The Dragon Trip is a leading Adventure and Educational British Travel Company expert in organizing learning adventures and educational trips in China and Japan.

Founded in 2010, with offices in London, Boston, Shanghai

etr (Educational Travel for International Schools) has been providing cultural and educational trips to international schools to destinations around the world for over 25 years.

All of etr’s award-winning student programs are carefully

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

planned and customized for each group. The Switzerlandbased company offers trips in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. www.etrtours.com Frying Pan Adventures, founded in 2013, is Dubai’s first licensed food and culture tourism company. It provides gastronomic and cultural experiences that give participants an insider’s perspective into Dubai’s complex culinary ecosystem. This includes exploration of food places (restaurants, factories, markets) and cooking elements, as well as meetings with professionals (farmers, chefs, writers, photographers). www. fryingpanadventures.com Global Leadership Adventures (GLA), with a history and heritage in global education, packs the itineraries with leadership development, volunteering and the delight of taking learning off the beaten path. GLA provides high school students with the opportunity to authentically discover another culture, engage in high adventure and above all, participate in grassroots service projects that directly impact the families and communities they become close with while abroad. GLA offers over 30 programs in 16 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America, and is proud of its many alumni who have gone on to lead positive change in their own communities. www.experiencegla.com ITEC FZ-LLC provides academic support to students who plan to continue their studies at better colleges and universities around the world. ITEC FZ-LLC is a certified education partner of Kaplan Test Prep International. Its highly focused and intensive prep programs help students achieve their target scores in the SAT, ACT, TOEFL and IELTS. www.itec.ae Mountain Quest provides interactive and eco-friendly adventures in Nepal and the Himalayas. In addition, meaningful service projects that enhance host communities economic prospects are offered in Laos. The company, headquartered in Kathmandu, Nepal and Dubai, specializes in treks and mountain expeditions. www.mountainquests.com The Palms Dive Center has been operating on the East Coast of the UAE since 2007. Dive training is conducted in the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean by qualified Multi Lingual PADI instructors with experience in teaching scuba diving to children and teens. Its team will make sure that all students end the scuba program confident, happy and successfully! www.radissonblu.com/en/resort-fujairah/services

Rustic Pathways is a leader in unique international

9

community service, adventure, and education programs that take high school students to some of the most exciting destinations in the world. It offers over 100 programs in 18 countries. The company’s goal is to educate students on how to travel responsibly and actively support community initiatives in the places visited. www.rusticpathways.com Sentinel Mara Camp specializes in crafting personal and customized safaris that offer the experience of a lifetime. Their qualified and knowledgeable guides provide guests with an adventure full of wonder, inspiration and learning. At the center of their operation is Sentinel Mara Camp in the Masai Mara National Reserve, an eco-camp that combines an authentic close to nature experience with comfort and safety. www.sentinelmaracamp.com Small Journeys Inc., for over 25 years, has been providing creative and exciting programs for student groups visiting the US. As a New York-based group tour operator, the company provides well-organized custom programs with knowledgeable, lively and friendly tour guides. As New York experts, Small Journey carefully plans each program based on the individual group’s interests with a specialty in performing arts, theatre and music groups as well as a variety of special interest educational programs.

Small Journeys is a member of Student and Youth Travel Association (SYTA) and IATA, professional associations with stringent quality and financial criteria for membership. www.smalljourneys.com The Swiss Student Leadership Camp specializes in leadership development. The company’s specially designed programs combine outdoor, team-building activities with group discussions and coaching. In a Swiss mountain setting, participants develop leadership skills, set goals, and learn about time and stress management. www.swissleadershipcamp.com TS College Tours is a leading provider of college and university tour programs for international students. TS College Tours was established to serve international school students who plan to attend university in the US or Canada.

The company’s tour leaders are experienced, international school high school counselors, who have an understanding of the unique backgrounds, experiences and needs of international students and “third-culture kids”. www.tscollegetours.com Unveil Arabia, a travel company founded by two scientists, designs active, discovery experiences which provide a deeper understanding of the United Arab Emirates. All trips are unique and explore areas such as architecture (modern and traditional), adventure outings, renewable energy, conservation, marine biology, infrastructure, urban planning, art, design and lifestyle. www.unveilarabia.com

10

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

Timeline, Eligibility & Trip Selection TIMELINE

STUDENT ELIGIBILITY

APRIL 30 INSPIRE Week Student Assembly and Trip Fair

All high school students at the American School of

May 9

INSPIRE Parent Information Meeting

May 24-25 Student Trip Selections, Deposit (AED 1,500) and Submission of Passport and Visa Copies May 24-25

INSPIRE Job Shadow Proposals Due

May 30

INSPIRE Powerschool Learning Pages Released

June 8

Payment 2 Due (50% of trip cost)

September 4 ASD Medical Form Link emailed to ASD Family E-mail from PowerSchool Learning September 4

New Student and Parent INSPIRE Orientation

September 10 New Student Trip Selection September 14 ASD Medical Forms and Trip Provider/Vendor Medical

Dubai participate in INSPIRE Week as part of the high school curriculum and graduation requirement.

Each student is required to have a current UAE residency visa and passport that is valid six months at date of travel. INSPIRE Week starts on November 14, 2017. Students whose passport expires before May 14, 2018 need to apply for a new passport before traveling on INSPIRE Week.

U.S. citizens traveling to Tanzania must have a passport valid for a minimum of one year (until November 14, 2018) at date of travel.

Students with repeated disciplinary or academic concerns may be restricted to Dubai-based participation for INSPIRE Week.

Forms Due September 21 Final Payment Due September 21 INSPIRE Job Shadow Final Proposal Due October 30 INSPIRE Pre-Departure Parent Meeting (Mandatory) November 14-21 Be INSPIRED!

THE TRIP SELECTION PROCESS The High School will hold a student assembly in April and a parent information session in May to communicate the trip selection process in full. At the annual trip fair, students will have an opportunity to learn more about trips that they have predetermined to be of interest to them individually.

Trip selections will be made by students at the end of May and students notified of their trip placement shortly thereafter. At the time of trip selection, students must pay AED 1,500 deposit, and provide color copies of their passport, residence visa and any other country visa that may apply to the student’s trip selection.

Timeline: April 30 INSPIRE Guide Released to Students April 30 INSPIRE Student Assembly and Trip Fair May 9 INSPIRE Parent Meeting, 7:00 p.m., ASD Theatre May 24-25 - Student Trip Selection June 1 Student Trip Announcement June 8 Payment 2 Due (50% of Trip Cost)

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

11

Expectations & Responsibilities PARENT ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES Stay Informed Parents can find all information about a student’s trip in the PowerSchool Learning (Haiku) pages. Remember, PowerSchool Learning (Haiku) is accessed through ASD family email account. Parents are encouraged to stay informed and be engaged throughout the trip process from selection through travel. As with all student travels, there is a required student and parent meeting in the weeks prior to travel.

paperwork is completed - this includes ensuring that passports and visas are valid and secured, medical and emergency forms are fully completed, and all permission forms are signed and discussed with their student(s).

By signing the trip selection form and paying the initial deposit, parents are agreeing to all terms and conditions of travel for an international trip with ASD. If a parent is uncomfortable with international travel, they should come to agreement with their child on an alternate experience based in the UAE. Note the following important criteria for trip selections:

Documentation & Permission

•T he medical needs of the student

Recognizing there are factors in trip selection that require parental input, the High School incorporates parent approval into the early stages of the process. This ensures that students pursue trips that are fully supported at home. Please see the trip selection section of this guide for specifics. Additionally, parents must ensure that all

•T he need for immunizations to the desired locations •T he need for additional equipment required for the trip (i.e., trekking) •T he respective complications that may exist given the passport the student will use to travel

12

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

• The possible need and associated difficulties in securing a visa for the trip selected • The type of lodging and food associated with the trip • The level of physical rigor that the trip requires • The possibilities for in-country travel and transportation at INSPIRE locations • The understanding that should a student fall short of expectations for student conduct as detailed in the Student Expectations and Waiver for Overnight Travel listed on page 16, parents will assume the responsibilty for the cost incurred by ASD of returning the student to ASD early, or the need for the parents to travel to the INSPIRE location to collect their student.

• Once trip assignments have been made and flights booked, refunds will be dependent upon the policies of the trip providers and the airlines. Any refund received will be passed on to families.

• There will be a deposit and two trip payments. The AED 1,500 deposit is due when a student hands in his or her trip requests. The first payment is due by June 8 and will represent 50% of the total projected cost of the trip (inclusive of the initial deposit). The final balance payment is due no later than September 21.

• ASD makes final payment on all travel arrangements with both vendors and airlines 45 days before travel (September 30).

Trip Payment Schedule

Finances

May 24-25

Families should pay trip deposits and fees in a timely manner, according to published deadlines. Deposits and fees are paid to the ASD Business Office, located on the second floor of the Administration Building.

June 8 Payment 1 (50% of trip cost, deposit included)

• All trip costs are inclusive of in-country lodging, activities, in-country travel, meals and insurance for emergencies once the trip has begun.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

• All trip costs are exclusive of international flight; costs for visas and immunizations; personal spending money; and costs of transport to and from the Dubai airport.

• Students/families are responsible for securing necessary visas, immunizations, or medical treatment required prior to travel.

September 21

Trip Deposit (AED 1,500) Final Payment (100%)

INSPIRE is a curricular activity and, as such, students are held to the same expectations, responsibilities, and consequences as if they were on the ASD campus.

Additional expectations may be set due to the nature of travel and activities on each trip. These will be communicated by trip chaperones during trip meetings at the start of the 2017-2018 school year.

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

Health & Safety Student health and safety are of the utmost priority at the American School of Dubai. The nature and purpose of INSPIRE Week may expose students to a degree of risk not typical of regular, on-campus activities.

Trips may include hiking, kayaking and other physical activity.

The High School Administration has vetted the INSPIRE trip providers and the trips to minimize potential risks and determine necessary safety procedures.

Given the location of some INSPIRE trips, particularly those in Africa and Southeast Asia, vaccinations may be required or recommended. The Health Office advises that students get vaccinations at least 4-6 weeks in advance of departure for maximum effectiveness.

Comprehensive health information, including details of prescription medication policy and required/recommended immunizations, vaccinations and anti-malarials will be available in the coming months in a separate information packet.

13

14

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

Important INSPIRE Policies Cancellation of INSPIRE Trips Once a student has been placed on an INSPIRE trip, there is no allowance for changes to trip assignments. When trip lists are established in May, flights are blocked with airlines that require a deposit to hold seats on flights. Additionally, 90 days from INSPIRE Week (August 16), trip vendors begin to book internal transportation, meals and lodging and they lose the ability to recover expenditures at this time. Then, 45 days prior to travel, all arrangements have been finalized and funds forwarded to trip vendors. In the event of a last minute emergency cancellation, it can take months for any funds to be returned to ASD. It is likely that a family will experience a significant delay in receiving any amount that can be refunded. ASD does not assess penalties for cancellation, and a family will be responsible for any cancellation costs from vendors and/or airlines. It is unlikely that a cancellation does not carry a financial penalty from the trip vendor or airline.

In the event that an emergency requires a change in your plan for INSPIRE Week participation, you will need to fill out the form found at: https://goo.gl/forms/ vLFOL4zOFybkFKp63 Trip Emergency Insurance All INSPIRE Week international trips include insurance to cover the costs of needed medical and emergency support during the INSPIRE Week trip. This insurance is in place in the unfortunate event that something occurs once the INSPIRE Week trip has begun. ASD, in conjunction with the trip providers, has attempted to account for emergencies

that emerge during travel and to expedite care for students in an emergency situation.

This insurance does not cover the cost of families personal financial circumstances or a change in their desire to travel to the selected INSPIRE Week location. Every attempt will be made to support families should a change in their residential status occur. There is no provision for when a family changes their decision to participate in an international trip for INSPIRE Week. In the event that a family changes their decision to participate in international travel or a Dubaibased paid INSPIRE Week trip, the family can anticipate a potential financial responsibility to airline or travel providers for expenses incurred on behalf of the student in preparation for INSPIRE Week participation.

Security Notice ASD has worked with trip vendors to find trips that have been vetted for security to ensure the safety of our students.

ASD informs the US embassy of travel plans well in advance of student travel and monitors travel advisories that are released in the months prior to student travel.

Should ASD, in consultation with the U.S. Embassy, conclude that travel to a previously planned site becomes unsafe, every attempt will be made to move all students to a comparable trip in a location free of the same risks.

Parents should also do their own investigation of the countries their students are considering for INSPIRE Week so that they have the highest degree of agreement with the student choices made for travel.

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

15

Frequently Asked Questions What do I need to know about my passport?

Each student is required to have a current UAE residency visa and a passport that is valid for six months at date of travel. INSPIRE Week starts on November 14, 2017.

Students whose passport expires before May 14, 2018 need to apply for a new passport before traveling on INSPIRE Week. U.S. citizens traveling to Tanzania must have a passport valid for a minimum of one year (until November 14, 2018) at date of travel.

Who will book my flight?

All international flights will be arranged by ASD. Parents are responsible for flight costs which are in addition to the trip price listed in this guide.

match a variety of interests for those who are unable to travel outside of Dubai.

Is my participation graded?

INSPIRE is part of our curricular program and will be assessed on a pass/fail basis.

Can I sign up with my friend?

INSPIRE allows students to pursue individual interests and passions. Friends who share those same passions may choose some of the same trip options, however there is no guarantee of trip placement based on friendship.

Why isn’t the INSPIRE cost included in tuition?

Will someone help me obtain my visa?

Some INSPIRE trips require visas. Although guidance will be provided, it is up to each family to ensure their student obtains the necessary visa.

Will I have to get immunizations in order to travel?

Depending upon the location of your INSPIRE trip, you may be advised and/or required to be immunized against certain preventable diseases. Beyond this, it may also be advised that students traveling to certain locations take prophylaxis to further ensure their continued good health. More details about immunizations and prophylaxis will be shared with you on the PowerSchool Learning pages and your trip leaders.

What should I pack and what should I leave behind?

No matter your trip, it is highly advised that you pack just what you can comfortably carry. Additionally, it is not recommended to take items of value either monetary or personal. More specific information about what to pack for your trip will be uploaded on the PowerSchool Learning pages specific to your trip that is provided by the Trip Vendors.

Can I change trips once I’ve been assigned?

International trips are not changed without some compelling reason. If a change of placement is required due to substantial medical or other reasons, students can consider trip options based in Dubai. Any other changes or withdrawal from a trip are subject to financial penalty as deposits are made in advance of travel. For additional information, please check the trip cancellation section on page 14.

Do I have to go?

INSPIRE is part of our curricular program and participation is a mandatory requirement at the American School of Dubai.

All students are expected to participate in INSPIRE Week.

There is a wide range of local opportunities designed to

INSPIRE trips are selected with a broad range of appeal to best match student interests and passions. As a result, the costs of the trips vary widely. Keeping the cost separate from tuition allows families to pay the true cost of the trips they choose.

Can I bring my mobile phone?

The power of the INSPIRE experience is enhanced when students fully engage and remain present in the moment with their peers while on the trip. As such, we require that students not use mobile service during their trips.

How can I best stay informed about my trip?

Trip information is disseminated through PowerSchool Learning. Once you are identified with a trip, your communication will be channelled through PowerSchool Learning to keep everyone updated with the latest information from Trip Leaders and Vendors.

16

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

Sample Student Expectations and Waiver for Overnight Travel Form Student Name:_______________________________________________________________ Grade: ___________________

Trip:______________________________________

Dates of Trip: _________________________________

Traveling with the American School of Dubai is an honor and a privilege. At all times students are representing themselves, their families, ASD, their home country, and the UAE. Student behavior and expectations are, therefore, held to the highest standard. The following expectations ensure that the trip is conducted with maximum safety for all participants: 1. Students are expected to attend all trip meetings as scheduled by the trip leader.

2. All laws of the host and home country must be observed.

3. ASD faculty chaperones are the authority while traveling. ​Expectations set forth by the school, and carried forward by the chaperons, must be followed.

4. Students must inform the faculty chaperon of their whereabouts at all times. Notifying a tour guide or fellow student does not relieve this obligation.

5. S tudents are expected to conduct themselves at all times in such a manner as to reflect positively on themselves, their family, and the ASD community.

6. Housing arrangements may not be altered. Each student must remain in his/her assigned room after curfew time except for emergency situations. If any student violates this rule, he/she may be suspended from the following day’s activities and will be referred to the administration. Students are not allowed in the rooms of others.

7. Student dress is expected to meet school requirements. As a general guideline, garments must follow the same expectations as set forth in the ASD dress code. During the trip planning process, students will be advised on clothing or equipment requirements specific to their trip and its activities.

8. U se and/or possession of alcohol, tobacco or unauthorized drugs while on the trip is grounds for immediate dismissal from the trip.

9. Behavior not in compliance with the ASD Student Code of Conduct or any behavior not in the best interest of the school that occurs may constitute grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the trip. Should a student be dismissed while on a trip, parents are expected to pick up the student. All costs associated with picking up the student are the responsibility of the parent(s).

Upon return, school consequences shall apply according to the Student Handbook.

10. Students are responsible for all personal belongings. Trip leaders reserve the right to prohibit certain items on certain trips (i.e., electronics, valuables).

11. Should a student become ill or injured during a trip and unable to continue, the parent(s) or designated emergency contact is expected to pick up the student. All costs associated with picking up the student are the responsibility of the parent(s) or emergency contact.

12. An Administrator-in-charge (AIC) will be assigned for each student trip. The AIC is available and on-call in order to facilitate communications should a family experience an emergency that requires communication with their student. The AIC will contact the trip leader on behalf of the family.

I have read and understand the above trip agreements. I understand the consequences of not upholding the expectations outlined.

Student Signature: ____________________________________ Parent Signature:______________________________________ Print Parent Name: ____________________________________ ASD email: ___________________________________________ Date: ________________________________________________

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

17

Sample Disclosure, Waiver and Release Form PLEASE PRINT IN BLOCK LETTERS

I _________________________________________________________ [insert parent name] am the parent of ___________________________________________ [insert student name] (“My Student”) By my signature below and acting on behalf of My Student I acknowledge and understand there are risks involved in _______________________________ [insert trip name] (”ASD Event”) which include, but are not limited to physical and psychological injury and death.

For myself and My Student, I acknowledge that: 1) American School of Dubai (“ASD”) has made available all material information about the ASD Event, including but not limited to the ASD Event schedule and travel information; 2) there are inherent risks in student group travel; 3) I have had the opportunity to raise any and all questions with all appropriate ASD representatives about the ASD Event, the information about the ASD Event made available to me or to My Student, the travel risks known to ASD; the ASD Event structure and the ASD personnel and representatives involved in the ASD Event; 4) I have disclosed to ASD, in writing, all relevant information about My Student that could impact in any manner any of the risks involved in the ASD Event​and certify that my student is physically fit and capable to participate in this trip; and 5) I have read and understand this entire Disclosure, Waiver and Release of Liability.

For myself and My Student, I release, hold harmless, and agree to indemnify ASD and its representatives, employees, and agents (“Released Parties”), from and against any present or future claims, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses for injury to person or property, or for any other damage, which I or My Student may suffer or for which My Student may be liable to any other person related to My Student’s participation in the ASD Event (including all time in transit to or from the ASD Event destination) resulting from any cause, including but not limited to negligence on the part of My Student, any participant in the ASD Event or any of the Released Parties.

Dated: ___________________________________________________ Print Parent Name: _________________________________________

Parent Signature: ________________________________________

Print Parent Name: _________________________________________

Parent Signature: ________________________________________

18

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

INSPIRE TRIP OPTIONS

n n n n n n

Arts and Culture College Tours Eco-adventure Leadership/ Professional Service UAE-Based Options

Trip Catalog

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE • ART & CULTURE

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

CHINA - THROUGH THE LENS Type of Trip: Photography, History, Geography and Culture

19

from both sides of the conflict to promote dialogue, reconciliation and a shared sense of humanity.

Trip Highlights:

Area(s) Visited: Beijing, Longji and Yangshuo

• Kayak around one of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches.

Cost: $$ + International Flights

• Gain an understanding of the war and the impact it has made 20 years later.

Trip Provider: The Dragon Trip A photographic trip that invites the students to immerse into the history, culture and hidden landscapes of China.

Offering an ideal blend of shootings opportunities, participants will be able to capture the best of the traditional Chinese architecture in China’s antique capital, explore the rice terraces of Longji and take epical scenery photographs across the rivers and karst mountains in Yangshuo. A trip of contrasts, it will teach the students not only how to capture the real Chinese life through the lenses but also how to understand the evolution of this ancient and developing giant, experiencing different facets, day by day.

Trip highlights: • Guided walk through the ancient Beijing hutongs where students can portray how locals still live in traditional courtyard style houses.

• Learn about Imperial China while visiting the Temple of Heaven and wander through the Forbidden City, photographing details of these key representatives of traditional Chinese architecture.

• Sift through stalls at the Panjiayuan Flea Market – a communist bargain hunt.

• Hike along a secluded part of the Great Wall, away from the crowds, and marvel while taking panoramic shoots of this Wonder of the World.

• Explore the cascading, emerald-green Longji rice terraces, a worldwide landscape photography’s treasure.

• Spend the night in a hotel among the terrace fields.

Time to turn on the night lenses and app filters, a whole sky surrounded by exuberating mountains will come into view (weather dependent).

• Bamboo rafting and bike rides through the stunning countryside in Yangshuo, with its karst limestones peaks, rice paddles, villages and green water rivers.

CROATIA - THE BALKANS: CULTURE, CONFLICT AND RESOLUTION Type of Trip: History/Culture Area(s) Visited: Split and Mostar Cost: $$$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Rustic Pathways Combining history, current events and community service, this program will give students a deep understanding of the Balkans, its recent history of war and how that has shaped the region today. Explore beautiful beaches, lakes and mountains while working with local students

• Visit the iconic Mostar bridge.

• Bring local students together from both sides of the conflict, opening discussion and helping to build understanding.

HUNGARY AND AUSTRIA – MUSIC EXPERIENCE Type of Trip: Music and Culture Area(s) Visited: Budapest and Vienna Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Club Europe Budapest and Vienna are inspiring, vibrant destinations for those with an interest in music. Discover the thriving musical scenes of these two cities and walk in the footsteps of great composers such as Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Bartok and Liszt, to name a few!

Trip highlights: • River cruise on the Danube, accompanied by live traditional folk music.

• Guided tour of Budapest. Visit Heroes’ Square, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Széchenyi Baths and Andrássy Avenue, a World Heritage Site where almost every building has a story to tell.

• Tour of the Hungarian Opera House. This building has a fascinating history and dazzles visitors with sculptures of 16 composers, exquisite marble staircases and an abundance of frescoes and wall paintings.

• Budapest Castle District and Museum of Music History.

Explore Hungarian music from the 18th century to the present day.

• Concerts at the Béla Bartók National Concert Hall (Budapest) and Musikverein Concert Hall (Vienna), both of which are platforms for some of the world’s finest musicians.

• Budapest Great Market Hall. The largest and most beautiful of the city’s indoor markets. One of the city’s top tourist attractions and a great place to pick up some souvenirs.

• Guided tour of Vienna. Explore the narrow staircases, lanes and courtyards of the old town and learn about this city’s fascinating history.

• Haus der Musik Museum in Vienna. Experience conducting the (virtual) Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra!

• The Esterházy Palace, one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Austria, where Haydn spent much of his career as a court musician.

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE • ART & CULTURE

20

ICELAND – NORTHERN LIGHTS Type of Trip: Photography and Culture Area(s) Visited: Reykjavik Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Club Europe Iceland offers an enthralling and fascinating destination for students. This trip combines the geographical wonders of Iceland’s geysers, glaciers, waterfalls and volcanoes with time to explore the charming city of Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital.

Trip highlights: • Reykjavik. Visit the old town centre, Parliament, the Cathedral, the harbour, the National Museum and the Arbaer Open Air Museum.

• The Blue Lagoon, located in the middle of a black lava field. Discover what gives the lagoon its unique colour and take a dip in the mineral-rich geothermal waters.

• Iceland’s South Coast, including the black sand beach of Vík, voted one of the ten most beautiful non-tropical beaches on Earth. Learn how volcanic eruptions created much of South Iceland.

• Northern Lights Tour. The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis are a spectacular natural phenomenon, often seen dancing around in fantastic colours across the Arctic sky.

• The Golden Circle. See Gulfoss, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe and the famous Great Geysir, which has given its name to geysers all over the world.

• Icelandic Horse Riding. Meet the horses, descended from the first horses brought to the island by Vikings over 1,000 years ago and enjoy a ride in the stunning Icelandic countryside.

ITALY – FOOD TECHNOLOGY Type of Trip: Culinary and Culture Area(s) Visited: Florence Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Club Europe With rich collections of art, culture and literature from many different periods, Italy has a broad cultural influence worldwide. Not only that, but it is renowned for its great food. Florence is the perfect location for a culinary trip on which students will discover local gastronomy and produce, from farm to table.

Trip highlights: • Cooking classes. Learn from local Tuscan cooks of incredible skill. Buy your ingredients at the local market and prepare your own Italian meals.

• Guided walking tour of Florence. Visit famous sights such as Piazza del Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, an incredible medieval bridge where local stallholders sell their wares.

• Uffizi Gallery. Home to the world’s greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art.

• Gallery of the Academy of Florence. Home to the famous Michelangelo’s David.

• The Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of Italy’s most iconic sights.

JAPAN – ADVENTURE ANCIENT TRADITIONAL AND MODERN URBAN CULTURE Type of Trip: Geography and Culture Area(s) Visited: Tokyo, Kamakura, Hakone and Kyoto Cost: $$$ + International Flights Trip Provider: The Dragon Trip A four-destination trip that showcases the best of modern and traditional Japan, allowing the students to learn about geography, history, culture, religion, technology and urban development. Tokyo has it all: Imperial history, high-tech infrastructure, quirky pop culture, traditional markets and much more.

Hakone offers spectacular mountain and volcanoes scenery crowned by Mt. Fuji. Kyoto, the capital of old Japan, represents its glory past with abundance of stunning temples, teahouses and traditional geishas’ performances. Through these days, the participants will visit a local school to interact with Japanese students, learn about Buddhism and watch a sunset on the beach in Kamakura. Students will also visit cutting edge museums, interacting with clever robots and learning how science is applied to prevent natural disasters.

Students will also be immersed into nature - hiking, taking river cruises and boats including a boat ride in the Lake Ashi, a beautiful crater lake.

Trip highlights: • Learn about Tokyo’s modern urban development and preparation for the upcoming 2020 Olympic Games.

• Visit a large fish market in Tokyo and understand how the Japanese demand for fresh seafood drives the economics of the fishing industry in Japan.

• Learn how Kamakura was once chosen as the capital of Japan because its geography made it a natural fortress. Walk to the Great Buddha statue, and learn how Buddhism migrated from China to Japan.

• Take a series of cable cars in Hakone, an active volcanic zone that offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji.

• Spend a night in a traditional Japanese Ryokan-style inn with tatami mat floors and futons.

• Florence Central Market. A 19th century market where stallholders sell the primary ingredients of Tuscan cuisine.

• Travel on a high-speed train to reach Japan’s ancient capital: Kyoto.

• Guided tour of local organic olive grove including a traditional lunch on the farm.

• Go on a boat ride on the Hozu river and explore the bamboo forest in Arashiyama.

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

JORDAN – ARABIC LANGUAGE AND EXPLORATION Type of trip: Language and Culture

NEW YORK CITY THEATRE – BROADWAY AND MORE! Type of Trip: Theater and Culture

Area(s) Visited: Ancient Amman, Roman Jerash, Dead Sea, amazing Petra and the desertscape of Wadi Rum

Area(s) Visited: Manhattan and Outer Boroughs

Cost: $$ + International Flights

Trip Provider: Small Journeys Inc.

Trip Provider: etr educational travel

21

Cost: $$ + International Flights

From Jerash in the north to Petra in the south, Jordan is filled with incredible history, archaeology and geographical highlights.

Students will enhance their knowledge of Arabic as well as actively explore a country filled with the treasures of its Greek, Roman and Nabataean past.

New York is one of the great cities of the world and New York’s Broadway is the center of American theatre and performing arts. This program includes Broadway shows, meet and greets and workshops with Broadway performers, special sightseeing arrangements, and a chance to visit the bright gem of culture and commerce in the United States.

Trip highlights:

Trip highlights:

• Tour Jabal Amman, the atmospheric old neighborhood of Amman and home to the city’s greatest souks, ancient buildings and monuments such as the Citadel and the Roman Theatre.

• Attend three Broadway performances. Show choices may include Miss Saigon, School of Rock, Come from Away or other great student friendly hits.

• Improve your Arabic language skills with instruction from local teachers.

• Experience ancient Jerash, one of best preserved and most beautiful sites of Roman architecture outside Italy.

• Float in the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth.

• Explore world-renown Petra, the crown jewel of Jordan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Take a 4X4 exploration of the oft-photographed Wadi Rum, followed by camel excursion.

• Stargaze like never before during an overnight in the desert.

MYANMAR - DOCUMENTING DEMOCRACY THROUGH FILM Type of Trip: Culture and Adventure Area(s) Visited: Yangon and Mandalay Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Rustic Pathways Take an in-depth look at the evolution of democracy in Myanmar through the stories of artists, filmmakers, students, and families. Visit ancient temples, shop at the local market, develop your storytelling skills, and visit the homes of local families for the ultimate cultural immersion.

Trip highlights: • Work with film making professionals to learn about storytelling and digital filmmaking.

• Visit the famous Shwedagon Pagoda.

• Explore the famous Bogyoke Market, chat with locals in a nearby tea shop and interview students at a local university.

• Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum for a historic overview of the cultural impact on the city and the country • Workshops on theatre skills including a musical theatre workshop from the show the group will see later that night.

These include three other talks and workshops with working theatre professionals.

• Exciting night time view of the city at the top of the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock.

• Behind the scenes tour of NBC Studio.

• Sports event at Madison Square Garden or one of the great local college teams.

• United Nations tour.

• Group meals at local restaurants with New York City specialties.

• A stay in a Midtown Manhattan hotel.

POLAND – STEP BACK IN TIME Type of Trip: History and Culture Area(s) Visited: Warsaw and Krakow Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Club Europe On this trip, students will discover the cultural heritage of Warsaw and Krakow. Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is a city of diverse architecture: restored Gothic, communist concrete, modern glass and steel are a sign of the city’s troubled past, including virtual destruction at the end of World War II. Beautiful Krakow, listed

by UNESCO as one of the World’s 12 most historic sites, was miraculously spared from destruction during WWII. Trip highlights: • Royal Castle in Warsaw, home to Polish monarchs throughout the centuries. Rebuilt after destruction in WWII. • Warsaw Rising Museum, learn about the heroic but doomed uprising against German occupation in 1944.

• Folklore evening. Enjoy delicious traditional Polish food accompanied by folk music and dancing.

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE

• ART & CULTURE • ART & CULTURE

22

• Palace of Culture and Science. Built in the 1950s as a gift of friendship from the Soviet Union. Visit the top floor for fantastic views over Warsaw.

• Neon Museum. See some of the most iconic neon images from Poland’s cold war era.

• Museum of History of Polish Jews. Discover 1,000 years of Polish Jewish history, all the way through to WWII and the destruction of Europe’s largest Jewish community.

• Guided tour of Krakow. Explore the streets of Krakow’s Old Town and Kazimierz Jewish District to Wawel Castle and the Jagellonian University, one of the oldest surviving universities in the world.

• Auschwitz Concentration Camp/Schindler’s Factory.

A humbling experience and poignant reminder of this dark time in history.

• Wieliczka Salt Mine. One of the oldest in Europe. A labyrinth of tunnels, passages and underwater lakes with intricate monuments and statues carved into the cave walls.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND – LITERARY AND CULTURAL ADVENTURE

The collection includes a first edition of Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

• J ames Joyce Cultural Centre. Superb interactive displays on the various aspects of Joyce’s life.

•A quaZone Waterpark. Take a detour from Dublin’s historical sights and enjoy high speed flumes, a surf machine and a wave generator •D ublinia. Learn about the inhabitants of medieval and Viking Dublin. Climb St. Michael’s tower, an original medieval tower, for fantastic views over the city.

• I rish Dinner Dance. Experience live traditional Irish folk music. Join in with professional dance instructors who will teach the steps and provide entertainment.

• Treasure hunt. Leave no stone unturned in this fantastic treasure hunt challenge which uncovers the very best of Dublin’s sights.

SPAIN – SPANISH SERVICE AND LANGUAGE ADVENTURE Type of trip: Service, Language Immersion Area(s) Visited: Valencia and Barcelona Cost: $$ +International Flights

Type of Trip: Literature and Culture

Trip Provider: GLA - Global Leadership Adventures

Area(s) Visited: Dublin

Based in the port city of Valencia (the birthplace of paella!), this program combines language instruction, cultural excursions and volunteering for a true Spanish immersion.

Volunteer with a local urban organization that works to promote social justice and solidarity among youth in the face of modern global issues. On the weekends, practise your language skills in sophisticated Barcelona, try its famed cuisine and admire the stunning architecture.

Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Club Europe Dublin is steeped in history with notable literary connections; James Joyce, George Bernard Shaw and Oscar Wilde all lived and worked here. There are many fascinating and fun attractions to see across the city.

A living museum, with medieval castles and cathedrals on display alongside 18th Century architectural splendours, this is a trip students won’t forget.

Trip highlights:

Trip highlights: • Improve your Spanish through language immersion.

• Explore socio-economic issues of modern-day Spain.

• River cruise on the River Liffey. A great way to see local places of interest.

• See Spain’s iconic architecture and visit the Sagrada Familia.

• Writers Museum. Honouring the lives and works of famous writers who have lived and worked in Dublin.

• Tour the Barcelona footbol stadium.

• Take a paella workshop and learn to dance flamenco.

Cost: $$$ + International Flights Trip Provider: TS College Tours The best way to get to know a college or university and its location is to visit in person.

On this tour, students will visit nine universities in the U.S. Northeast.

Trip highlights: • Visits to Northeastern University, Boston University, Bentley University, Babson College, Suffolk University, University of Connecticut, Quinnipiac University, Columbia University, and New York University or Parsons School of Design.

• Student-led tours of the campus including residential facilities.

• Information sessions with admissions directors.

• Seminar on crafting effective college essay.

23

CAMBODIA - SERVICE AND ADVENTURE Type of Trip: Eco-Adventure Area(s) Visited: Kol Thmey Village, Phnom Kulen, Angkor Archeological Park, Tonle Sap Lake and Siem Reap Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Asia Pacific Adventure The majority of local Cambodian people still subsist on rice and fish. On this trip, students will discover rural life in Cambodia as they bike past endless paddy fields and live in a stilted longhouse. The trip will include hiking up a sacred mountain, visiting an impressive waterfall and kayaking to see a floating village on the Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and the country’s main source of fish.

Trip highlights: • Live in a rural Cambodian village and serve the community through teaching English, art and sport.

• Hike up to and explore the impressive waterfalls on the sacred mountain.

• Kayak through a floating village to see Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.

• Discover the incredible history and culture of the ancient Angkor empires and explore the amazing Angkor Archeological Park.

HONG KONG - THE AMAZING RACE Type of Trip: Eco-Adventure Area(s) Visited: Hong Kong Island, Outlying Island, Sai Kung Country Park, Kowloon, Victoria Harbour

• ECO-ADVENTURE • ECO-ADVENTURE

Cost: $$ + International Flights

• COLLEGE TOURS

• Cultural and fun activities in Boston and New York City.

• ECO-ADVENTURE

Area(s) Visited: Massachusetts, Connecticut and New York City

• ECO-ADVENTURE

Type of Trip: College Tour

• ECO-ADVENTURE

US COLLEGE TOUR – NORTHEAST

• COLLEGE TOURS

• COLLEGE TOURS

• COLLEGE TOURS

• COLLEGE TOURS

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

Trip Provider: Asia Pacific Adventure Get ready to explore one of the most exciting cities in the world - Hong Kong! Through this Amazing Race, students will climb, kayak and abseil through Hong Kong’s incredible countryside, as well as explore and taste their way around famous landmarks of this international city. Do you and your team have what it takes to complete the Hong Kong Amazing Race?

Trip highlights: • Complete creative, strategic and adventure challenges while navigating their way throughout Hong Kong.

• Plan, buy and prepare their meals, plan where they need to go, and how they will get there (budget provided by APA).

• Take part in a city adventure requiring teams to navigate to famous landmarks, rock climb, abseil and tyrolean traverse across sea cliffs in an island challenge.

• Experience the history and culture of the city and explore the famous Victoria Peak.

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

• ECO-ADVENTURE

• ECO-ADVENTURE

• ECO-ADVENTURE

• ECO-ADVENTURE

• ECO-ADVENTURE

24

INDONESIA – BALI

Cost: $$ + International Flights

•V isit an authentic Masai village and learn about the customs and culture of this unique African tribe; the more adventurous will learn to throw a spear and rungu (traditional club) as well as shoot with a Masai bow and arrow.

Trip Provider: Ecofieldtrips

•V isit a local Masai primary school.

Bali is a haven for anyone interested in geography, conservation, culture and adventure. On this trip, students will live in a traditional kampong (village) and experience traditional Hindu culture as well as work on conservation of the local flora and fauna.

•L earn about traditional uses of various plants.

Trip highlights:

MALDIVES – EXPERIENTIAL DIVE TRIP

Type of Trip: Conservation and Culture Area(s) Visited: Bali

• Work and teach at a small primary school. Trip groups are encouraged to bring used and unwanted books (in English) or supplies for donation to the school’s library renovation project.

• Explore the countryside on hikes through paddy-fields, plantations and volcanoes, and study the impact tourism has had on the island’s infrastructure and ecosystems.

• Visit Ubud and experience village life first-hand, watching and joining in with Balinese dances, ceremonies and arts and craft.

• Learn and explore the coral reef.

• Snorkel and stand up paddle board.

KENYA – SAFARI PLUS Type of Trip: Conservation, Culture and Education Area(s) Visited: Nairobi, Nakuru, Masai Mara National Reserve Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Sentinel Safaris Kenya is often referred to as the microcosm of Africa and is also where the word safari originated. It offers a wide variety of fauna and flora from which to learn much about the Animal and Plant Kingdoms. The Masai Mara Reserve often referred to as “the safari jewel” has the highest concentration of large mammals in the world.

In addition to the abundant wildlife, students will be exposed to the customs and cultures of various peoples especially, the Masai.

Trip Highlights: • Visit the capital city Nairobi as well as two different wildlife reserves with different habitats.

• Learn about the protection and conservation of large mammals such as rhinoceros, giraffe, elephant, lion and cheetah as students visit a Rhino Sanctuary, a Cheetah Project, the Lion project, the Giraffe Centre and The Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage with an opportunity to adopt an elephant.

• Experience African wildlife up close and personal on daily drives in their natural habitats with a professional safari guide who will teach about wild animals and their behaviors.

•L earn to interpret the “signs of the wild” on guided nature walks in the bush.

•S pot birds, insects and animal tracks.

Type of Trip: Open Water Diving (Experienced/ Beginners) and Marine Biology Area(s) Visited: Maldives - Mathiveri Island Cost: $$$ + International Flights Trip Provider: ECOFIELDTRIPS The Maldives, a group of coral atolls in the Indian Ocean well known for their incredibly diverse coral reefs, clear blue water and white sand beaches. The abundant marine life ranges from tiny colourful nudibranchs to giant manta rays and just about everything in between!

The trip is based in the island of Mathiveri, a one hour and a half speedboat trip from Male airport. This trip provides divers and snorkelers with an unforgettable underwater experience. Ecofieldtrips Marine biologists accompany students throughout the trip delivering both an adventure and educational trip.

Trip highlights: • A range of leisure and marine biology dives and snorkels, each day having a different focus.

•R eef-check survey dives, submitting data to Reef Check's World wide data base for Global coral monitoring.

• PADI Open Water Dive Course for students who want to qualify as scuba divers.

• Snorkeling only for non divers.

• Kayak and stand up paddle boarding.

• Local primary school integration program.

MYANMAR - CYCLE, SERVICE AND SUMMITS Type of Trip: Service Area(s) Visited: Yangon and Hpa’an Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Asia Pacific Adventure Since transitioning from a military rule to a free democratic system, Myanmar has seen momentous change, but remains at heart a rural nation of traditional values. In this trip, students will cycle into a culture and lifestyle that is shared and valued by over 100 ethnic groups that reside nowhere else in the world. Students will participate in two separate service projects at local schools as well as visiting iconic temples and monasteries.

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

Trip highlights:

Trip highlights:

• Gain skills in mountain biking and journey through Myanmar’s interesting rural countryside.

•T rek in the Himalayas to reach the beautiful viewpoint of Mohare Danda.

• Immerse in two meaningful service projects at local schools.

•S tay with host families, learning all about how people live, study and work in the mountains of Nepal.

• Experience first hand how rubber makes its way from trees to tires.

• Explore the spectacular Hpa’an region including climbing the iconic Mt. Zwegabin and kayaking through rural canals.

• Understand the culture and religions of Myanmar by visiting spectacular temples and caves.

NEPAL – MARDI HIMAL Type of Trip: Trekking and Camping Area(s) Visited:Kathmandu, Pokhara and Annapurna Conservation Area Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Mountain Quests This eight-day adventure will take students to some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the World. Students will trek through forests and along ridgelines before summiting the Himalayan mountain near Mardi Himal Base Camp. During this journey, students will learn how to take care of themselves in the Himalayas, including how to camp, how to put up your own tent and how to purify water for drinking. This adventure is perfect for anyone who wants to challenge themselves in the Himalayas while also witnessing stunning natural beauty and the World’s highest mountains.

Trip highlights: • Trek through incredible Himalayan scenery, before reaching your very own mountain summit.

•L earn about sustainable industry in Nepal and how it is helping create jobs in areas previously unable to provide a living.

•L earn about Nepali culture when visiting famous temples in Kathmandu.

ROMANIA - RE-WILDING EUROPE Type of Trip: Eco Service Area(s) Visited: Armenis, Rusca, Timisoara, Sighisoara, Brasov and Bucharest Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Rustic Pathways Based in the picturesque village of Armenis in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, this project focuses on wildlife preservation and reforestation. The goal of the project is to establish a sustainable Bison herd in this wildlife corridor.

Bisons have been a missing link in the food chain and their re-introduction will help to improve biodiversity throughout the region. Student efforts will involve sapling surveys, habitat monitoring and bison tracking. Students will also assist local schools with recycling and reforestation initiatives.

Trip highlights: • Learn about bison’s role in the ecosystem while tracking and examining their effect.

• Camp under the stars in beautiful locations.

• Absorb local culture and sample traditional food.

• Learn how to live and look after yourself in the wilderness, as well as learning how hard work helps you to succeed with your goals in life.

• Visit a breathtaking castle.

• Learn about Nepali culture when visiting famous temples in Kathmandu.

NEPAL – MOHARE DANDA

25

• Visit Transylvania Highlands and hear the real story behind “Dracula”.

TANZANIA – MT. KILIMANJARO CLIMB Type of Trip: Trekking and Camping Program Cost: $$$$ + International Flights

Type of Trip: Trekking and Camping

Trip Provider: Rustic Pathways

Area(s) Visited: Kathmandu, Pokhara and Annapurna Conservation Area

Climb to the Rooftop of Africa, Uhuru Peak, on this challenging mountain trek. Participants will go through five climate zones as they climb over 4,500 meters and travel over 30 kilometers. A high level of fitness and ability to acclimate to high altitudes are necessary. Experienced mountaineers will lead the adventure.

Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Mountain Quests This is an adventure with a unique difference. Students will not only be trekking through stunning Himalayan mountains but will also spend time living with and learning from their local host community. Students’ ultimate goal is the spectacular viewpoint of Mohare Danda, but along the way they will learn how to cook local food, immerse themselves in a typical day of a Nepali student and learn about sustainable methods of industry in the Himalayas. This trek is perfect for anyone who wants to challenge themselves in the mountains, while also gaining an intimate understanding of the life and culture of a special group of people in Nepal.

Trip route: From Marangu gate (1,280 meters elevation), hike seven kilometers (estimated hike time: 3-4 hours) to the first base camp of Mandara (2,740 meters); trek past Maundi Crater for 11 kilometers (4-5 hours) to Horombo Hut (3,700 meters); hike between the two peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi for 10 kilometers (6-7 hours) before arriving at Kibo (4,700 meters); climb five to six hours to Gilman’s Point (5,685 meters); and finally after another two-hour climb, reach the summit, Uhuru Peak. The descent will be done over two days.

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

• LEADERSHIP/PROFESSIONAL

• LEADERSHIP/PROFESSIONAL

26

THAILAND – MEDICAL CERTIFICATION Type of Trip: Professional and Service

SWITZERLAND – STUDENT LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Area(s) Visited: Baan Chiang Yuen, Udon Thani

Type of Trip: Leadership

Cost: $$ + International Flights

Area(s) Visited: Geneva, Lausanne and Chateau d’Oex

Trip Provider: Rustic Pathways

Cost: $$ + International Flights

Taking place on the Rustic Pathway’s Ricefield Base in Northeast Thailand, this program will equip students with a set of highly useful skills they will carry for life. Under the guidance of medical professionals, students will spend the week developing and using a variety of Wilderness First Aid skills including CPR, wound care and advanced first aid. Using their newly gained skills, students will assist in rural village clinics helping treat preventable diseases.

Trip Provider: The Swiss Student Leadership Camp

Trip highlights: • Help medical professionals in rural village clinics.

• Develop practical knowledge and skills regarding wound care, first aid, CPR and proper medical response for a variety of situations.

• Earn your Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certificate.

• Learn about Thai culture, food and dancing.

Develop leadership skills, set goals, learn about time and stress management and communication skills in this active trip in the Swiss mountains. The specially-designed program combines outdoor, team-building activities with group discussions and coaching.

Trip highlights: • Live in Swiss chalet with full boarding in an unspoiled mountain village between Lake Geneva and Gstaad.

• Individual and team activities such as nature and mountain hikes, rock climbing, navigating to a secret mountain lake with guides, glacier expedition, visit of the United Nations, snowshoeing and high rope course.

• New: Filmmaking, vlog and leadership skills: Students will make own camp vlog and video together with filmmaker, presenter and cameraman reflecting on the camp activities, goals and development of leadership skills while learning ins and outs of presentation techniques and communication skills.

• Learn about risk taking and setting goals from mountain guides and rescuers.

• Students go home with a personal action plan and leadership skills that they can apply to sports, study and their daily lives.

BALI – GLOBAL HEALTH INITIATIVE Type of Trip: Leadership/Professional and Service Area(s) Visited: Ubud and Amed Cost: $$ + International Flights

• LEADERSHIP/PROFESSIONAL

Trip Provider: Global Leadership Adventures (GLA) East meets West in this unique program, where students study public health in Bali through different perspectives: Western modern medicine and the indigenous wisdom of the East. Volunteer at a Western pop-up clinic and observe traditional ayurvedic healing practices.

During time off service, enjoy Bali’s uplifting culture through live music and dance performances, memorable meals and high adventure on the coast.

Trip highlights: • Shadow health professionals working in rural communities.

• Observe how public health systems are implemented.

• Visit a natural birth clinic, yoga studio and center for people with disabilities.

• Surf with Balinese locals.

• Snorkel over coral reefs and a historic shipwreck.

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

CAMBODIA - FLOATING VILLAGE

27

Type of Trip: Service

KENYA – SERVICE THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Area(s) Visited: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Prek Toal

Type of Trip: Service

Cost: $$ + International Flights

Area(s) Visited: Tsavo East National Park and Rukinga Wildlife Sanctuary

Trip Provider: Rustic Pathways Abounding with ancient architectural treasures and a vibrant yet troubled history, Cambodia is an unforgettable country and one students need to visit.

On this trip, students will explore the country and culture, trying food, making friends and diving deep into local issues. Stay in the floating village of Prek Toal, contributing to community service efforts like teaching school children and improving houses. Finish the trip with a day spent exploring the ancient temple complex at Angkor Wat. Trip highlights: • Three-day river cruise visiting, living and working with floating village communities.

• Build and repair local villagers’ homes and teach English at the primary school.

• Visit and marvel at the ancient and vast temple complexes around Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat. • Get a historical perspective of Cambodia with visits to the genocide museum and the Killing Fields, where more than a million people lost their lives during the 1970s civil war.

INDIA - INDIAN WILDLIFE CONSERVATION Type of Trip: Eco Service Area(s) Visited: Agra and Delhi Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Rustic Pathways Work with Wildlife SOS to improve the lives of rescued sloth bears and Asian elephants in Agra. Experience an incredible Indian wildlife adventure and participate in animal conservation and rehabilitation practices. Shop in bazaars, visit marble workshops, and dance in a snake charming village. End your program with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal.

Trip highlights: • Learn about sloth bears and their unique history with the Kalandar tribe.

• Spend time caring for rescued sloth bears and building enrichment structures for their enclosures.

• Work with rescued elephants, feeding, bathing and walking with them.

• Spot exotic birds during a boat ride down the Yamuna River.

Cost: $$ + International Flight Trip Provider: Camps International Spectacular wildlife, jaw-dropping scenery and some of the friendliest people has long made Kenya a popular destination for travellers of all ages. This trip offers students the chance to live and work as part of the community, helping local adults and children improve their standard of living in a sustainable way.

Trip highlights: • Live in our own Camp Tsavo nestled amongst the Marungu Hills.

• Help construct classrooms.

• Making ethical elephant deterrents to protect local crops and reduce elephant poaching • Game drive in Rukinga Sanctuary and conservation work.

• Visit traditional Maasai Tribe Village.

LAOS – MEKONG BASE SERVICE Type of Trip: Service and Adventure Area(s) Visited Vientiane; Na Som Village and Luang Prabang Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Rustic Pathways Welcome to Laos and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

Spend the week at Rustic Pathways’ Mekong Base overlooking the beautiful Mekong river. The base is located just outside of Luang Prabang and has the feel of a traditional Lao village. Venture into surrounding communities to assist in infrastructure projects and work with village schools to conduct lessons and enrichment programs. During the week, students will hike to turquoise waterfalls, venture deep into caves and explore the colonial city of Luang Prabang sampling delicious local food and experiencing the vibrant culture.

Trip highlights: • Explore the side streets and back roads Luang Prabang by bicycle, stopping at temples, small shops, and other important sites along the way.

• Visit a Khmu hill tribe village and contribute a day’s effort to developing infrastructure in the village and improving access to fresh water.

• Visit local artisans and find treasures to bring home.

• Ride a slow boat down the Nam Khan river to explore the Pak Ou Caves and the Buddhist shrines within.

• Visit the Taj Mahal.

• Hike to the Kuangsri Waterfall.

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

• SERVICE

28

LAOS – BUILDING HOUSES TO SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

MONGOLIA - GREENHOUSE AND EXPLORATION ON THE STEPPE

Type of Trip: Service

Type of Trip: Service and Adventure

Area(s) Visited: Luang Prabang and Ban San Udon Village

Area(s) Visited: Ulaanbaatar and Terelj National Park

Cost: $$ + International Flights

Cost: $$ + International Flights

Trip Provider: Mountain Quest

Trip Provider: Rustic Pathways

This is a truly immersive service experience. Students will be living and working alongside villagers building a bungalow, allowing partnering community to host visitors in their village as a way to generate income. Students will be able to explore the world heritage town of Luang Prabang, hike through lush jungle, swim in turquoise waterfalls and go on a riverboat tour.

Walk in the footsteps of Chinggis Khan while learning about the history of Mongolia. Visit the Terelj National Park taking in expansive vistas and hiking to a mountainside Buddhist monastery. During the week, students will spend time building a greenhouse in the village of Gaachurt and learning about local culture and traditions. Try your hand at archery, sample traditional foods and take in this unique and amazing culture.

Trip highlights: • Participate in the ECO Bungalow building project, lead activities at the village school, and learn the culture first hand from the host family.

• Hike through the jungle and enjoy breathtaking mountain views and enjoy a refreshing swim at the Kuang Si waterfall.

• Experience Luang Prabang’s historic temples and learn about Buddhism.

Trip highlights: • Learn about history of Mongolia and how it became one of the greatest empires the world has ever known.

• Visit the stunning Terelj National Park, famous for immense rock formations and sweeping vistas.

• Help build a greenhouse in the the village of Gaachurt.

• Learn about the effects from the Vietnam war at the UXO learning center.

SOUTH AFRICA (CAPE TOWN) SERVICE AND ADVENTURE

MALAYSIA (BORNEO) DISCOVERY EXPEDITION

Area(s) Visited: Amazing Cape Town, Cape Point Nature Reserve, Robben Island, Hout Bay, Simon’s Town and Table Mountain National Park

Type of Trip: Service

Cost: $$ + International Flight

Area(s) Visited Kota Kinabalu, Klias River and Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary

Trip Provider: etr educational travel

Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: Camps International Borneo is the third largest island in the world and located in Southeast Asia. This multicultural island is home to an enormous diversity of flora, fauna and natural beauty.

This trip offers students the opportunity to live in a rural community, work on infrastructure projects as well as forest and wildlife conservation.

Trip highlights: • Live in a rural community and learn traditional ways of life.

• Help construct classrooms and water supplies.

• Help with forest regeneration and wildlife conservation.

• Visit to Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary.

• Wildlife boat safari along the Klias River.

Type of Trip: Service

Cape Town’s history is long and storied. It is a cosmopolitan city with unrivalled culture and diversity nested in a beautiful natural landscape. This trip offers the perfect blend of culture, adventure and service project.

Trip highlights: • Ascend to the top of Table Mountain, Cape Town’s iconic mountain, with the Aerial Cable cars for some amazing views of the city.

• Venture to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years and learn more about this dark piece of South Africa’s history with an informative guided tour of the prison.

• Bring your energy and enthusiasm to your community service project at the Siyazama Educare Center. This center houses approximately 100 children under six years old, providing them with housing and education, health care and a family atmosphere. Students will be tasked with making building improvements to the school and classrooms as well as interacting with the young residents.

• Explore the Cape Point Nature Reserve with a scenic hike to the impressive Cape of Good Hope. Declared Natural World Heritage Site, the park contains a mix of extraordinarily diverse and unique fauna and flora.

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

• Take a sea kayaking expedition to Boulder’s Beach and its unique African penguin colony.

• Surf with the professionals in Muizenberg beach. Known for its gentle sloping white beach and consistent waves, Muizenberg beach is a great spot for learning to surf quickly and safely.

29

VIETNAM – COMMUNITY SERVICE AND EXPLORATION IN THE NORTH Type of Trip: Service Areas Visited: Hanoi, Mai Chau and Ha Long Bay Cost: $$ + International Flights Trip Provider: etr educational travel

THAILAND - THE ELEPHANT VILLAGE INITIATIVE Type of Trip: Service Area(s) Visited: Chiang Mai Cost: $$ + International Flight Trip Provider: Global Leadership Adventures (GLA)

On this trip, students will venture to the rural community of Mai Chau, home of the White Thai, one of 54 officially recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam. Here, students will lend their energy and enthusiasm to the construction of a home for a local family as well as gain an understanding of the significance of family in Vietnamese society and rural-to-urban migration in the region.

Upon completion of the house, students will explore the capital of Hanoi and overnight on a cruise of Ha Long Bay.

Elephants are Thailand’s extraordinary gentle giants, a traditional symbol of royal and spiritual power. Students will live adjacent to a Thai elephant home and volunteer daily alongside mahouts - elephant keepers - who have committed their lives to ethically caring for and interacting with these animals. Through the rewarding work, develop a relationship with the animals and understand the complex global issues of elephant captivity and conservation.

Trip highlights:

Trip highlights:

• Learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class followed by a performance of the famed water puppets.

• Live at a rustic Thai elephant home.

• Take care of elephants and understand their behaviors.

• Hike in picturesque mountains of northern Thailand.

• Experience Thailand’s vibrant culture at traditional markets and temples.

• Go on a whitewater rafting adventure.

UGANDA – PEARL OF AFRICA Type of Trip: Service Area(s) Visited: Hairy Lemon Camp, River Nile and Ngamba Island Chimp Sanctuary Cost: $$$ + International Flight Trip Provider: Camps International Based in a unique location in Uganda “The Pearl of Africa”, this trip takes in vital community activities and conservation initiatives. Camp Uganda work in partnership with Kirundi Primary School. This provides students with the opportunity to take part in worthwhile community projects before travelling by boat to Ngamba Island, 23km into Lake Victoria, to visit a chimp sanctuary and learn about primate conservation.

Trip highlights: • Live on a small island hideaway on the River Nile.

• Work on vital on going community projects.

• Learn about local conservation initiatives.

• Visit Ngamba Island Chimp Sanctuary.

• Experience the beautiful culture of Uganda.

• Join a rewarding service project by building a traditional White Thai stilt house in beautiful Mai Chau, in northwestern Vietnam.

• Trek along terraced rice paddies and learn about local agriculture and irrigation systems • Explore Hanoi’s colonial Old Quarter on a cyclo ride.

• Cruise overnight in amazing Ha Long Bay, littered with 3000 towering limestone peaks.

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

30

A-LIST SAT/ACT INTENSIVE WORKSHOP Type of Trip: Exam Preparation Location: ASD Campus Cost: $$$ Trip Provider: A-List Education These bootcamps are specifically designed for international students preparing for the SAT and/or ACT. Over the course of one week, students will review key content and strategies for both exams and supplement their learning with practice exercises and drills.

In this intensive workshop, students will receive:

to become a Level 1 mountain biker. Students will also learn vital first aid and survival skills during an overnight survival camp in the mountains. On water, students will explore Arabia’s oldest protected mangrove forest with very rare wildlife and nesting turtles. As well as a range of fun water activities, students will develop their communication skills on the raft building challenge. Once they have mastered basic kayaking skills, students will be challenged to earn their Level 1 kayaking certificate.

ASD SURVIVOR CHALLENGE Type of Trip: Survivor Challenge

• 30 hours of instruction and two diagnostic exams.

Area(s) Visited: UAE and Oman

• Detailed score reports showing score improvement as well as opportunities for further progress.

Cost: $$

• An overview of the fundamental Math, Writing, Reading, and Data Analysis concepts assessed by both exams.

• Critical thinking techniques and problem-solving strategies.

• Guidance on writing the optional essays.

• Post INSPIRE: 1 on 1 session, college consultation, and two practice exams.

ACADEMIC WORKSHOP - ASD Type of Trip: Academic Location: ASD Campus Cost: $ Trip Provider: ASD For some students, time to focus on the improvement of academics is an important step in their progress. In this Academic Workshop, students will arrive at ASD each day to work on those things most pressing, to work ahead on long-term projects, or to work on test SAT or ACT preparation in Naviance. Academic Workshop is during school days from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

ADVENTURE CAMPING AND TURTLE SPOTTING Type of Trip: Camping and Water Adventure Area(s) Visited: Dubai Cost: $$ Trip Provider: Absolute Adventures Based at the Kalba adventure centre in the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation area, students will stay in modern, air conditioned log cabins. This multi-activity trip is carefully designed to promote leadership skills, teamwork and effective communication. On land, students will take on the geo-caching challenge in the local mountain range, complete an aerial leadership course on high ropes and practise mountain bike skills

Trip Provider: Absolute Adventures During this multi activity adventure, students will complete an unforgettable four-day expedition in the majestic Musandam Fjords. This program is carefully designed to develop resilience, communication skills and navigation. The program begins at the Dibba plantation camp where students will spend two days learning kayaking skills, orienteering, campcraft and basic wilderness first aid. Day 3 begins with a speedboat ride into the Omani fjords. From here, students jump onto their kayaks and navigate through a series of checkpoints to a secluded beach. En route, students will learn about a variety of wildlife (with a chance of seeing huge turtles and dolphins), unique rock formations and evidence of ancient human settlements.

Students set up camp and cook their dinner on camping stoves before sleeping under the stars. The adventure continues into Day 4 with the chance to do some rock climbing and jumping into to turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

After another night under the stars, the kayaks are taken away and students must navigate their way, by foot, through a series of checkpoints that takes them up and into the mountains for some stunning views across the peninsula. Once at the finish line, students will return to the plantation camp for a well-deserved rest and delicious dinner. During the final day, students will have the chance to experience other activities such as archery, touring the village by mountain bike and relaxing on the beach with their new friends.

COLLEGE APPLICATION BOOT CAMP Type of Trip: Workshop Location: ASD Campus Cost: $ Trip Provider: ASD counselors and faculty, and university representatives In this six-day workshop, Grade 12 students will have

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

the opportunity to take command of their college application process. Students will hear from ASD faculty and counselors in addition to college representatives on a variety of topics including: • Standardized testing timelines • Presentations and workshops from universities’ representatives • Finding the right-fit university • Application review and help with essay writing • Mock interviews • For Grade 12 students, this program provides ample time for regular decision college application completion.

• UAE university visit

COLLEGE DISCOVERY AND EXPLORATION Type of Trip: Workshop Location: ASD Campus Cost: $

• E xplore traditional Middle Eastern and Indian food at restaurants and eateries in Deira.

• Get an insider’s look into a fine dining meal at a high-end restaurant from start to finish. This includes looking at how teams of people - busboys, waiters and cooks - work together; different aspects of meal coordination; how chefs create dishes and execute them; and how food items are presented and priced.

• Attend a professional cooking school and cook a 2-3 course meal.

• Meet a cookbook author and hear about the process of researching the book, testing recipes, and getting published.

• Learn the skills necessary for any modern-day food business or personality - writing, developing a social media voice and food styling and photography - by documenting the week through a blog or photo journal.

DUBAI, PARIS OF THE MIDDLE EAST Type of Trip: Art, Culture and Design

Trip Provider: ASD Counselors, Faculty, and University Representatives

Area(s) Visited: Dubai and Sharjah

In this six-day workshop, students will have the opportunity to begin to explore the college selection and application processes. Students will hear from ASD faculty and counselors, in addition to college representatives, on a variety of topics including:

Trip Provider: Unveil Arabia

• Standardized testing timelines

• Learn about Dubai’s art scene with visits to the unique spaces in Al Serkal Avenue and the galleries at the Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC).

• Teleconferencing with University Admissions representatives • In-depth introduction to Naviance • SAT and ACT preparations as directed by Naviance • Presentations and workshops from universities’ representatives • Finding the right-fit university • Application review and an introduction to essay writing • Career and interest inventory • UAE university visits

CULINARY ADVENTURE Type of Trip: Food and Culture Area(s) Visited: Dubai Cost: $$ Trip Provider: Frying Pan Adventures Food and culture come together in this Dubai-based program that is ideal for any aspiring chef, entrepreneur or writer in the world of food. Students will get an insider’s view into the city’s complex culinary ecosystem, visiting agricultural farms, restaurants, cooking schools and a cookbook author.

Trip highlights include: • Trip to a local organic farm to learn about sustainable farming and crops, and the impact of farming on the environment.

Students will harvest produce and cook a meal.

31

Cost: $ - $$$ In this UAE-focused program, students will get a taste of the art, architecture, fashion and culture of the region.

Trip highlights:

• Play with colors and styles to learn the impact of first impression and visual identity and how you can align your appearance to your true self.

• Participate in an interactive experience with Arabian horses in the desert.

• Visit an archaeological museum followed by an archaeological site visit and desert drive with tombs from the bronze age.

• Visit a dhow yard and learn about dhow building, this old artisanal occupation.

• Travel through the Emirates from west to east to understand the country’s diversity of landscapes and wildlife.

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

• UAE-BASED

32

DUBAI, TODAY AND TOMORROW Type of Trip: Culture, Environment and Business

GLOBAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND INNOVATION

Area(s) Visited: Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah

Type of Trip: Academic

Cost: $ - $$$

Location: ASD Campus

Trip Provider: Unveil Arabia

Cost: $$$

In this educational and cultural program in the UAE, the past, present and future come alive. Topics covered in this program are architecture and urban planning, renewable energy, conservation and marine biology.

Trip Provider: Venture for All

Trip highlights include: • Visit to Abu Dhabi’s now-being-built futuristic Masdar City and Institute of Science and Technology. Try out the electrical automatic pods (Private Rapid Transit).

• Learn about Saadiyat Island’s conservation efforts (dunes, turtles, etc.) from a marine biologist. This is followed by kayaking in the Eastern Mangroves Reserve.

• E xplore Dubai’s urban planning and participate in an architectural city tour including a presentation by one of Dubai’s main developers.

• Learn about the future of Dubai and its leaders views and explore the newly opened Dubai Canal.

• Visit the Expo 2020 site, Jebel Ali or Khalifa Port and learn about economic growth and future vision of Dubai.

• Learn about Dubai’s future space program, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center and visit Sharjah’s Planetarium.

The Columbia Business School’s Global Entrepreneurship and Innovation Course is a pre-college, one-week intensive, 40-hour, college-level course taught by Faculty of Columbia Business School. The goal is to expose high school students to the theory and practice of entrepreneurship and innovation by guiding them through the new venture creation process as applied to their own original ideas. By the end of the course, students will have a collection of potential products, services, and process ideas, and will be given the chance to test the value of the strongest ideas using proven market research techniques.

For more information, visit www.youngmindsonline.com/ columbiaVFA/.

TEC SAT/ACT PREP COURSE Type of Trip: Academic Location: ASD Campus Cost: $ Trip Provider: ITEC Participate in an intensive test preparation program for students who want to build and improve their SAT and ACT scores. This is an intensive six-day, 30-hour program. Instructors will support students in their growth and approach to taking the ACT and/or SAT. Each student will receive a study pack comprising a textbook and practice test book.

Online preparation resources include: • Lessons-on-Demand: For review purposes, students will have access to recorded lessons. These will help them recap lessons while working through the practice materials or before the exam.

• Smart Reports: Instantly track progression on practice tests and quizzes, view average study pace and performance by question type and access detailed explanations for every question.

• Study on the Go: The Online Study Centre is available across all mobile devices, including smartphones, laptops and tablets, giving students the freedom to study anywhere, any time.

ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017 |

JOB SHADOW

STUDENT LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

Type of Trip: Leadership and Professional

Type of Trip: Leadership, Organizational / Communication Skills and Filmmaking

Cost: $ Trip Provider: Dubai-based Companies Students may opt to seek out a week-long job shadow experience at a Dubai-based company in the field of interest as identified by the student. These unpaid experiences are designed to give students an in-depth experience in an industry in a professional job setting. Students will work directly with Dubai-based corporate professionals. Experiences will be predetermined and arranged by students in consultation with their parents. A job shadowing agreement will outline the respective expectations of all parties involved: the student, parent(s), hosting company and the school. Students identify a job shadow site and create a proposal for the experience.

Packets for highlights include: • Professional mentoring • In-depth insights in the selected industry • Hands on experiences *Job Shadow proposals are due May 24. Students can pick up the Job Shadow application in the counseling office.

SCUBA DIVE - PADI CERTIFICATION Type of Trip: SCUBA PADI Certification Area(s) Visited: ASD Pool and Fujairah Cost: $$ Trip Provider: Dive Center, The Palms This course allows students to earn a PADI certification.

They will be qualified anywhere in the world. The professional team of multilingual instructors look forward to meeting ASD students and start their certification and diving adventure with additional days of open water diving with the experienced instructors while staying at the Radisson Blu, Fujairah.

Trip highlights include: • The PADI Open Water course with five pool sessions and four Open Water sessions.

• The pool sessions will be conducted at ASD school’s facilities.

• Open water sessions will be conducted in our Dive Center, The Palms in Fujairah.

• Trips to Dibba Rock known for its colorful corals, down fish, blacktip reef sharks and high population of green turtles

33

Location: ASD Campus Cost: $$ Trip Provider: The Swiss Student Leadership Camp The first three days, students partake in fun and interactive workshops involving various games and simulations run by industry experts on goal setting, leadership, organizational and communication skills after which students apply the learning outcomes during the remaining three days in several video productions under the guidance of the production team who produce films for organizations like BBC, Red Bull TV and National Geographic.

Highlights include: • Learn more about leadership, organizational and communication skills during fun-filled and interactive workshops with exciting team challenges under guidance of great trainers.

• Apply the learned organizational and communication skills to plan, produce and present three video productions. Students will interview a high performing executive or athlete, and learn how to plan and execute social experiments related to the learning outcomes. Students will conduct a company visit to learn how to interview staff and advise management on taking the company to an even higher level.

• Students finish with a personal action plan and leadership skills that they can apply to sports, study and their daily lives.

34

| ASD INSPIRE Guide 2017

P.O. Box 71188 Dubai, U.A.E. +971 4 395 0005 ext. 4011

|

inspire@asdubai.org

www.asdubai.org