How long have you been running programs?

Academic Treks is the academic adventure and community service division of Broadreach, a company that has been running summer adventure programs for teenagers for over a dozen years. Carlton Goldthwaite, Founder and Executive Director, designed Broadreach and its philosophy in 1993: programs limited in size, dedicated to skill building, international discovery and personal growth. Since then, thousands of teenagers have traveled the world with us on extraordinary hands-on expeditions. Broadreach is now a leader in summer adventure programs for teenagers with an ever expanding offering of exciting trips.

Will my high school or university accept Academic Treks course credit?

High school credit for AT courses is obtained by providing a detailed course syllabus and transcript to the appropriate administrator at your school. Although each academic institution has its own requirements and we cannot guarantee your school will accept the credit, most students are successful with the process. We recommend asking for approval from your school administrator prior to program to ensure credit approval.

All AT courses are designed to meet college level accreditation standards in which students earn college credits through Lesley University. It is ultimately up to your university to decide whether they will accept another institution's credits, although most schools do accept transfer credits. If you are uncertain about your school's policies regarding credit transfer, we encourage you to discuss this issue with your study abroad office or advisor before enrolling. To earn college credit from Lesley University, there is an additional fee of $330 to 480 based on the course’s number of credits that will be paid directly to the university before your course begins.

Am I going to be in a lot of lectures?

You will learn a great deal on any Academic Treks program, but most of the learning is hands-on. Our programs blend traditional classroom learning, service learning and experiential learning with international adventure travel to create exciting, fun and meaningful trips.

Are there any prerequisites for AT programs?

Several Academic Treks programs have prerequisites. Please check the Program Comparison Chart for an overview of prerequisites for different courses.

Do I need to have any wilderness or travel experience?

No. Many of our participants have never been on a wilderness program or traveled internationally. You do not need to have any experience camping, trekking, paddling or traveling. All we ask is that you come with an open mind, a desire to try new things and ready to have fun. Our instructors teach you all the skills you need one-step-at-a-time. Call for details on specific programs.

Will I be with other people my own age?

We try our best to keep narrow age groups. AT sets an age range for every trip so you will be with peers, both male and female, generally within two years of your age.

Does Academic Treks have rules we have to follow on program?

Yes. For the health, safety and well-being of our students, we require everyone to abide by AT rules and policies. In order to participate in one of our programs, you must agree to and sign our ‘Terms of Agreement’ that outlines these policies. For example, Academic Treks does not allow illegal drugs, drinking alcohol and exclusive relationships on our trips.

What about references?

We encourage you to call the families of past participants. Feel free to contact us for a list of references in your area. We do not publish the names and numbers of our alumni to ensure each family’s privacy.

How do I make my travel arrangements?

Beeline Travel coordinates the travel plans for all of our students. They are experienced in travel to our program destinations, handle our special group fares and help us plan smooth and coordinated travel days. Contact a Beeline Travel specialist at 800-845-1054 or travel@gobroadreach.com.

Is airfare included in the tuition fee?

No. Because our students come from across the United States and around the world, airfare is not included.

How many students are typically in an Academic Treks group?

We believe limiting the size of any one trip to 9-12 participants creates a more dynamic, supportive and fun environment. Our small groups encourage unity and teamwork, enabling individuals to develop a sense of responsibility and leadership. Small groups also give our staff the flexibility to work with the different goals and abilities within the group.