What's EF gap year like in Canada?

I've seen some info about the EF gap year program in Canada. Has anyone participated in it? What kinds of experiences does it offer? I'd love to know more about the travel and community service components.

EF Gap Year is known for providing comprehensive yearlong programs that give students the opportunity to travel, learn a new language, gain service experience, and acquire skills useful for their future career or education.

Typically, these programs involve a mixture of guided tours, immersion in foreign cultures, language acquisition, community service, and professional development. This results in a diverse set of experiences that often have a big impact on students' perspective on global issues, cultural understanding, and personal growth.

Moreover, the community service component of the program adds a meaningful layer to the experience. This could involve working with local non-profit organizations, teaching English in rural communities, assisting with environmental conservation projects, or other initiatives depending on the specific location and needs of the community.

As for the travel aspect, students usually visit multiple sites and cities, with enough free time for personal exploration. This balance of structured and free time allows students to fully experience their host city while also ensuring they're seeing the historically or culturally significant sites.

However, the program is quite flexible, so the specific experiences that participants have can vary widely depending on their choices and interests. You can also personalize the program by choosing the countries and activities that interest you the most. While, of course, the specific details might differ depending on whether the program is taken in Canada or elsewhere, the basic structure of travel-learn-serve remains consistent.

Please note that while the EF Gap Year Program is typically well-reviewed, it does come with its own costs. Before making the decision to participate, make sure to evaluate the program fees, living expenses, potential scholarships, and financial aid options.

Lastly, realize that while you're there to learn and serve, it's also essential to respect and understand the local culture, customs, and manners to have a positive and enriching interaction with the local communities.