Patagonia Study Abroad Program

Since 2009, The GREEN Program (TGP) has been empowering thousands of future sustainability leaders around the globe through experiential education. Now, we’re ready to work with the leaders of today to create a sustainable future, right now. 

Join TGP on our newest adventures, TGP Expeditions, created for professionals and executive leaders. 

Through these global leadership expeditions, participants will work with career and leadership coaches and professional mountaineers to explore and test the parallels between nature and business, leadership, and critical decision making. Participants will also have the opportunity to trek with like-minded professionals, and learn Leave No Trace principles and outdoor ethics, while expanding their physical and mental horizons. Upon completion, participants will receive a verified professional certificate of completion from The GREEN Program, team, and coaches.

With progress for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the core of our programs, TGP Expeditions – Patagonia is aligned with and supports three key SDGs:

• SDG#3: Good Health & Wellbeing: Research shows the beneficial effects that exposure to the natural world has on health, reducing stress, and promoting healing. Today, policymakers, employers, and healthcare providers are increasingly considering the human need for nature and its relation to our cognitive function and physical health. In a study, researchers found that being in nature reduced feelings of isolation, promoted calm, and lifted mood among patients. (Source: Yale School of the Environment). At the height of a society immersed in screens and technology, TGP Expeditions will expose participants to the raw elements of nature, and provide rich opportunities to reconnect with nature and themselves.

• SDG #8: Decent Work & Economic Growth: Being outdoors in nature has a dramatic range of benefits for both physical and mental health, and simply makes people happy:
  • Time spent in nature increases creativity by up to 50%
  • Nature has a positive impact on attention restoration
  • Energy levels are increased and recovery time from work are vital for efficiency
  • Time in nature improves cognitive function
  • Taking employees out of the workplace and into a natural setting fosters improved communication and collaboration between individuals, and is ultimately what creates a successful workplace

• SDG #12: Responsible Consumption & Production: Through TGP Expeditions, participants will foster environmental stewardship that will be transferred to their home and workplace environments post-program. Learn No Trace principles in the outdoors can be applied in professional settings and participants will explore how these principles can be integrated into their professional and personal lives at home. In addition, by participating on this program, a portion of program fees are contributed to support underserved students’ global sustainability education with The GREEN Program.

 TGP Expeditions is open to two groups in any field, discipline, and sector:

1) Professionals and

2) Executive leaders (Director, Vice President, President, or equivalent) 

We are seeking diverse individuals who are

• Eager for authentic travel experiences and the opportunity to reconnect with nature
• Driven to help create a sustainable future
• Motivated to expand their comfort-zone with exciting experiences that challenge them mentally and physically, and
• Have a knack for personal and professional growth 

Please read the full program candidate criteria below:

Criteria for Qualified Candidates in The GREEN Program’s Outdoor Leadership Program:

By establishing these criteria, we ensure that our selected participants are well-equipped to engage in transformative experiences, contribute to the program’s collaborative learning environment, and make a positive impact in the field of outdoor leadership and sustainability.

1. Interest in Sustainability: Candidates should demonstrate a genuine interest in sustainability and a commitment to making a positive impact in the field. This can be evidenced through their previous experience, educational background, and personal projects related to sustainability.

    

2. Professional Background: Candidates with diverse professional backgrounds across various disciplines are welcome to apply. Their professional experience should align with the objectives and themes of The GREEN Program’s outdoor leadership program. Participants for the Professionals program are typically under 40 years of age, and early to mid-stage career professionals. Executive program candidates hold leadership positions in their organizations such as Director or C-Level (CMO, CEO, CFO, CSO, etc) and have more than 10 years of leadership experience.
   

    

3. Leadership Potential: The program seeks candidates who exhibit strong leadership potential and the ability to work effectively in a team setting. Leadership skills can be demonstrated through previous leadership roles, team projects, or involvement in community or sustainability initiatives.

    

4. Open-Mindedness and Adaptability: Candidates should possess open-mindedness, adaptability, and a willingness to engage with new ideas and perspectives. The program involves exposure to diverse cultures, challenging environments, and unfamiliar situations, requiring participants to be flexible and receptive to new experiences.

    

5. Physical Capabilities: The outdoor leadership program in Patagonia requires participants to have a reasonable level of physical fitness and stamina. Candidates should be capable of engaging in moderate to challenging physical activities such as hiking, camping, and outdoor exploration in various weather conditions. At the time of the program, participants should be able to hike approximately 15 miles per day, carrying approximately 45lbs, in 3,000 ft elevation gain.  This ensures they can fully participate in the program and handle the physical demands of the expedition.

    

6. Communication Skills: Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential for candidates to actively engage in discussions, collaborate with fellow participants, and articulate their thoughts and ideas. Strong communication skills facilitate meaningful interactions and the exchange of knowledge and insights throughout the program.

    

7. Academic Achievement: While not the sole determinant, academic achievements and a solid academic foundation in relevant disciplines can indicate a candidate’s ability to comprehend and engage with the program’s curriculum and learning objectives effectively.

    

8. Global Perspective: The program values candidates who possess a global perspective and an understanding of the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic issues. International experiences, cross-cultural understanding, or involvement in global initiatives are assets that indicate a broader worldview.

By considering these criteria, The GREEN Program aims to select qualified candidates who are passionate about sustainability, possess the necessary skills and attributes for outdoor leadership, and can actively contribute to the program’s collaborative and immersive learning environment.