Frequently Asked Questions
For Your Safety
Taking a gap year is a life-changing opportunity for young people to experience personal growth, learn important life skills, and broaden their cultural perspectives. With Impact Gap Year, you’ll travel to new places, meet new people, and learn more about yourself and the world around you. That’s why we take your safety and security seriously.
Are the locations we travel to safe?
We only work with vetted partners and trained program staff members to ensure the safety of all participants. Some of the countries in our programs may be less developed than you are accustomed to in your home country, meaning you should exercise caution with various regional illnesses, road conditions, sex and gender concerns, and cases of extreme poverty. All Impact Gap Year programs will have an informational orientation for dealing with cultural differences as well as risk prevention during their program stay.
What is the drug and alcohol policy?
The use of drugs and alcohol lowers inhibitions, which can lead to theft, assault, and physical injury. Impact Gap Year has a strict zero-tolerance policy for illegal drug and substance use, and such behavior may result in program termination. Drinking is legal in most countries at the age of 18; nevertheless, excessive drinking that interferes with the participant’s and/or others’ involvement in the program may result in dismissal. We highly advise all participants to act responsibly and avoid any substances that threaten their own or the safety of others.
What happens if I get sick or injured?
All participants must have travel medical insurance. If a student becomes wounded or ill while abroad, they will be taken to the nearest local medical facility.
Impact Gap Year has established procedures in place to address nearly any medical circumstance or emergency. We maintain a team of pediatricians, orthopedic surgeons, and infectious disease specialists who are prepared to provide assistance to families if the need arises. In cases where a medical condition necessitates a visit to a clinic or hospital, our instructors will communicate with both our office and a family member back home. Typically, this communication is simply to inform the family that their participant is not feeling well and is seeking medical attention. Parents can choose the level of involvement they desire in their child’s care. Some parents may wish to converse directly with doctors regarding the situation, while others may prefer to trust the instructors on-site to manage the situation.
Is travel insurance provided?
Travel insurance is not provided in any of our Impact Gap Year programs and must be purchased by the participant. Insurance should cover the participant for the duration of their stay overseas.
What vaccines do I need?
We recommend getting the vaccines and immunizations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention based on the participating countries in your program. You will get a list of required and recommended vaccines in your welcome packet once you have been formally placed in one of our programs.
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At Impact Gap Year, we are committed to creating a world where individuals are empowered to lead. where ethical practices prevail, and where young people are equipped to create positive change. Join us on this journey of growth, collaboration, and impact.