Leadership & Service in Youth Development
Why Choose This Program?
Explore
Have fun discovering island life in the Dominican Republic.
Network
Meet new friends and NGO leaders. Build your own community.
Get Inspired
Gain hands-on leadership skills through coaching, running workshops, and fostering teamwork among local youth. Come home ready to take action.
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 Itinerary
Top Rated Activities
Museum of Mirabal Sisters
- Discover the powerful story of the Mirabal Sisters, contemporary feminist martyrs who bravely opposed oppression in the Dominican Republic. Known as Las Mariposas, Patria, Minerva, and María Teresa fought tirelessly for justice, ultimately sacrificing their lives in 1960. Visiting their preserved home, now a museum, you’ll step into their world, learning about their courage and the profound impact of their resistance.
- After this heavy experience, your Program Leader will guide you through a reflection session to dialogue and connect with your peers about the Mirabal Sisters’ legacy. Through these discussions, you’ll explore the importance of activism, leadership, and standing up for social justice. The visit concludes with a collaborative challenge to create a butterfly as a group, symbolizing resilience and unity. Working together, balancing on each other, or arranging on the ground, you’ll end the day with laughter and a sense of camaraderie.
- This experience blends history, reflection, and teamwork, connecting past and present struggles for equality. You’ll leave inspired to reflect on your own role in creating positive change and shaping your future in leadership and social justice.
Summer Camp Closure With NGO Kids
- Feel the excitement in the air as you reunite with the children from Acción Callejera for one final, unforgettable day of summer camp. This celebration marks the culmination of weeks spent building connections, sharing laughs, and creating memories. The day kicks off with a vibrant dance runway, where students, staff, and children come together to showcase their energy and joy.
- As the day unfolds, the focus is on the bonds you’ve formed. Whether you’re cheering each other on in a game or sharing a quiet moment during lunch, you’ll feel the depth of the relationships you’ve built—with the kids and your fellow Global Navigators. When it’s time for goodbyes, the children shower you with drawings, crafts, and handwritten notes, each a heartfelt token of their appreciation. The hugs, laughter, and even tears reflect the powerful impact you’ve had on each other’s lives in a short time, making this final day bittersweet.
- This emotional and rewarding experience highlights the power of connection and community. As you reflect on the impact you’ve made, this day will inspire your future, leaving you with skills, memories, and relationships to carry forward.
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.
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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.
Program Leaders guide and support our High School Summer Abroad participants through every step of their program.