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why students shoulder-to-shoulder?

For students to become the next generation of ethical leaders, they need to engage their intellect, curiosity, and sense of obligation to foster a foundation for ethics-based leadership. 

For 14 years, we have been partnering with nonprofit leaders—themselves role models of ethical leadership—to create transformative courses that allow students to fall in love with leading ethically, while working and learning alongside local communities. 

We believe that a Shoulder-to-Shoulder experience is critical in creating a worldview shaped by universal values of justice, responsibility, and compassion.

THE SSTS FIELD STUDY EXPERIENCE

AUTHENTIC. EDUCATIONAL. EXPERIENTIAL.

LOCAL PARTNERS

We work with trusted nonprofit organizations who are our partners “on the ground.” These inspiring global leaders and their grassroots initiatives are the central force for our courses in ethical leadership. Though these partners are spread across four continents, all are local to their communities.

EDUCATORS

Our courses are led by professional educators, from schools across the country, who we train in risk management procedures and experiential learning techniques.

SMALL GROUPS

We keep our group sizes small and maintain at least a 1:5 leader-to-student ratio. This allows us to immerse ourselves in our partner communities. All of our courses are tech-free, allowing students to be fully present in the experience.

EDUCATIONAL

Our programs are grounded in an experiential education approach. Before departure, students learn about the course site and the basic principles of ethical leadership through a case study. During immersion, our seasoned course instructors and NGO leaders put the field study experience in context through reflection and readings.

WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR SSTS. WE KNOW YOU MUST HAVE HEARD THIS BEFORE, BUT THESE EXPERIENCES ARE LIFE CHANGING FOR THESE YOUNG PEOPLE. OUR SON LOVED THIS COURSE.

DONALD CARTE, CHAIRMAN, VIRGIN AMERICA AIRLINES

FAQ

SStS has a variety of tested policies for managing and mitigating any challenges that arise. Central to our risk management strategies are the relationships among our nonprofit partners, which are well-respected organizations with deep roots in the local communities they serve. Additionally, our course instructors are experienced and well-traveled professional educators trained by SStS staff in experiential methodology, including risk management. We also consult with our partner Global Rescue, industry leaders in integrated medical, security, travel risk, and crisis management services.

Our group sizes range from 8-14 students. Our application process results in a roster of gritty, curious, and compassionate students with similar interests, including an interest in the social good. We limit the number of students from any one school to encourage students to step outside their comfort zone and meet new people.

No prior travel experience is necessary. We have many students who travel internationally for the first time with us. A Shoulder-to-Shoulder program is a great way to travel internationally with experienced instructors and like-minded students. Additionally, while language skills are beneficial, they are not required, as we have translators and course instructors to help students navigate the local language.

 

For all flights, SStS will provide guidelines regarding arrival times. Flights for US-based courses are purchased by each family based on these timeframes. 

Flights for international courses include two legs. The first, to the gateway city, is purchased by the family—again within the designated timeframe. The second, starting the international route, is purchased and organized by SStS.

Questions?

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