blog - Up with People

Part 1: A Year Abroad with Ivy

Posted by Up with People on August 21, 2019

What’s it like to be a traveler in Up with People? Ivy from Texas gave a testimonial about her gap year traveling in Up with People. As a participant in the Study Abroad program, Ivy talks about not only the knowledge she gained from her teacher, but also about the personal growth she experienced during her time abroad. Ivy from Texas As a traveler, what was the reason behind choosing Up with People as your Study Abroad program? “I grew up hearing about Up with People from some of my cousins who are alumni of the program. It instantly

Where Are They Now? Interview with Alumnus, Dave Smith

Posted by Up with People on July 24, 2019

Up with People alumnus, Dave Smith (otherwise known as ‘Taco Dave’) shares his story of traveling in Up with People and how it has impacted his career path by becoming a Franchisee for Taco Bell, Hot Dog on a Stick, and more! (On Left) Dave during his time in Up with People in 1974. (On Right) Dave today. Where are you originally from? “I’m from Sacramento, CA.” When did you travel in Up with People? What was your role? “1974-75 as a cast member.” What is your current position now? What does that entail? “I have been a Taco Bell

Up with People Elects Dennis Walto to Board

Posted by Up with People on July 22, 2019

Denver, CO – Up with People, the Denver-based nonprofit focused on youth building global understanding through music, education and social action, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dennis Walto to its Board of Directors. Walto is the eighteenth member of the board and was approved for a three-year term. Dennis Walto currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Health Fund, a U.S. based organization committed to ensuring access to high quality health care for children living in poverty. He is a social development entrepreneur and leader who has spent his career thus far trying to make the world

Ways To Keep in Touch While Traveling Abroad

Posted by Up with People on June 28, 2019

Making the decision to travel abroad for a year is one of the most exciting choices in your life. However, as you travel, you may begin to lose touch with the people back home that matter most to you. But don’t worry! We’re here with some tips on how to keep in contact while traveling abroad so that you can stay in touch with your friends and family. This information will also make your parents feel more at ease, knowing that they can communicate with you regularly throughout your journey. Choose the right cell phone and plan Your mobile device

Where Are They Now? Interview with Koen Suidgeest

Posted by Up with People on June 26, 2019

Koen Suidgeest is an alumnus of the Up with People program. Since his time traveling in the program as a cast and staff member, he has gone on to become a successful documentary filmmaker, photographer and now an author with his new book, Why I Cry On Airplanes. We had the chance to ask him a few questions about his time traveling in Up with People and how those experiences have translated into his own personal and professional life now in the Netherlands. Koen in Malawi Where are you originally from? I am from the Netherlands. Koen in Malawi When