Parts of the program are very good Parts of the program are very good, some others need a little polishing. My students and I enjoyed being able to mix them up in the their groups each day as to who was working together. The particular site we were on wasn't extremely organized and there were a few frustrations along the way. I'd spoken with other youth leaders prior who had had very good experiences other places, so might have been a rarity. Admin staff prior to the trip was excellent!

Pikeville, KY Our leaders were amazing! We loved the projects, outreaches AND People of Pikeville!! The week was well structured and the evenings were planned to allow some free time which was nice! Evening gathering was always great. The food was fresh and there were good options.

the GOAT Experience Mission is an incredible, God-centered organization that puts the dignity of ALL God’s people second to none. Their staff is world class, each of them love God and love people to their bones. The training is adequate and eye-opening; and the trip is life-altering. I recommend them for any sort of trip you’re looking to take. From 2 week to gap year, there isn’t another organization that I would suggest over them. I personally did Caribbean immersion and it was a great time of growth in my life. I wish I could relive it often. The relationships I formed will last a lifetime.

People Over Projects When we arrived at La Iglesia Familia, we were greeted by Diane and Ed, who gave us a great overview of what our week might be like. From the very first meeting with them, we knew that God was guiding us in our work for the week. Our group really wanted to be able to make connections within the community. We had been praying for this before and during our trip, and our prayers were answered ten-fold. We had so many opportunities to talk with, pray with, and learn from people in the community. Every day was a different experience and we really got to live out the "people over projects" approach of mission. This, to me, is so important and I'm glad we were able to take part in this mission experience.

My time serving on an IMMERSIAN team… My time serving on an IMMERSIAN team was the most transformational experience of my life. Taking time to step away from the pace of life in the U.S. and learning that other cultures have a lot to offer, some of which cannot be put into words, changed me for the better. I encourage anyone and who is looking to serve the kingdom, or even just looking for an intercultural experience to do so through EM. You will never be the same. And you’ll never regret it.