Rotary International District 5170

The Group Study Exchange is a Rotary sponsored exchange program for business & professional men & women in the initial years of their professional life. Find out more about GSE.

• Want an all-expense paid trip to one of the world’s best beaches and resorts while sharing and exchanging your vocation abroad?
• Want a life-changing experience by learning other cultures and gaining vocational experience abroad?

District 5170 is looking for a Rotarian of any age with leadership and travel experience to lead our District’s 2008-2009 Group Study Exchange Team to the Philippines.

The Rotary Foundation’s Group Study Exchange (GSE) program is a unique cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for a Rotarian, of any age, and four professionals between the ages of 25 and 40, who are in the early stages of their careers.

For four weeks, the team will experience Filipino culture, economy and institutions, observe how their vocations are practiced abroad, develop personal and professional relationships, exchange ideas, and experience Filipino way of life and customs while sharing information about their vocation and home in the Bay Area. Participants will return home with broadened cultural perspective and understanding of Filipino government, history, business and profession, and language.

During this four-week program participants will: Enjoy vocational visits where they have the opportunity to meet their professional counterparts; Give Rotary club presentations; Participate in social events and meeting with local dignitaries; Attend a Rotary District Conference; and, Experience cultural and site tours and free time with host families.

The GSE Team Leader position is a very important one in Rotary and an experience that one never forgets. A bond is formed between the Leader and the members. An unrivaled cultural experience happens. The Leader is forever recognized by the District with a place of honor for the extraordinary contribution the Rotarian made on behalf of the District.

The Team Leader must be a Rotarian and is chosen by a select committee, including the present, past and future District Governors. The Leader also assists in recruiting and selecting the members of the Team she or he will lead.

To help with your decision, here are some considerations. You will be expected to:

• Assume complete charge of your Team and remain with them for the duration of the visit
• Be physically fit. This is a demanding schedule.
• Give speeches and presentations in the host country and in our District.
• Take the leading role in the team pre-departure orientation.

Who is eligible?

An experienced District 5170 Rotarian with International experience who is willing and eager to help organize the Team, train and lead it to the Philippines. Demonstrated leadership ability is a must. Knowledge of language would be very helpful but not required.

Send Applications (PDF) to: GSE Chair, Richard Flanders, (925) 469-9155 or srednalf@pacbell.net