Leadership & Service in Youth Development
Summer '25 Applications Open
The Take-Aways
Real World Experience
Work alongside passionate Dominican NGO leaders committed to transforming the lives of children through education. Reflect on your own leadership style and strengths as you mentor children ages 4 to 15. Be better prepared to plan and implement community activities.
Credentials for Your Future
Topics for your college essays; experience to inform your future career; a Community Profile documenting how you investigated needs, resources, and perspectives during your service; and a record of your service-learning hours.
Life Skills and New Friendships
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and improved communication skills. Enjoy a broader worldview and friends of different backgrounds from across the U.S.
50
Hours of Service-Learning
3
Weeks of Community Engagement
1
Life-Changing Experience
The Destination
Welcome to Santiago de los Caballeros, the second largest city in the Dominican Republic.
Santiago de los Caballeros, also known as La Ciudad Corazón or “Heart City,” is located in the fertile Cibao Valley, surrounded by mountains. An important center of local industries and businesses in the Dominican Republic, this empowered city has undergone significant development and growth over the past five decades. Today it stands as the country's education capital, boasting a lively student and youth culture.
In a city of a little over 1 million people, you’ll enjoy a beautiful glimpse into Caribbean life. There are many restaurants as well as local associations and institutions that promote and preserve the most important traditions of the Dominican people. As you discover this scenic hilltop city, you’ll get to know the country’s heritage and diversity—ever present in its historic museums, monuments, murals, and quaint architecture.
In Santiago de los Caballeros, experience the true essence of the Dominican Republic through its merengue and bachata rhythms, love of baseball, and delicious African, Spanish, and Taino dishes.
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Santiago de los Caballeros.
Sample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you'll have!
- Go whitewater rafting and swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean. Discover breathtaking waterfalls!
- Groove on the dance floor to the rhythms of merengue, bachata, and salsa in a special dance class just for Global Navigators. Learn about the island’s musical identity.
- Tour Los Pepines neighborhood, where painted murals come to life with captivating stories and powerful messages. Explore Santiago’s traditional downtown and shop for souvenirs at Mercado Modelo.
- Hike in the adventurous eco-tourism hub of Jarabacoa and finish the day with a refreshing dip in the river.
- Let stories of courage and resilience inspire you on a visit to the Mirabal Sisters Museum, a tribute to the fearless national heroines who valiantly stood up against Trujillo's brutal regime.
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our Scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations, or contact us!
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Summer Session I 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $4,950 | |
| Program Summer Session II 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $4,950 |
Ready to change your life?
Our Staff
Lucía Agüero
Center Director
Lucía Agüero is a passionate educator and lifelong learner with over fifteen years of professional experience.
You might also like
- Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic
- Leadership
Assess the health needs of children and teens from semi-urban communities and participate in public health education initiatives.
- Homestay
- Service-learning: 50 hours