5 tips for future Program Leaders

Hello, future Program Leader, and welcome to the community! If you are reading this, it means you are getting ready to work with Offbeat Travel during the summer.

It is normal to feel nervous and need help with how to perform correctly as a Program Leader. Don't worry, we have all been there! Therefore, this blog post contains some tips to guide and help you in your future job.

Be Prepared

Being prepared is essential for any job. But how do you prepare to be a Program Leader? Start by researching your destination country: Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, or Puerto Rico. Understand the basics, such as the local currency and weather. Then, delve into more complex matters, such as if you can drink the tap water, required vaccinations, visa requirements, and length of stay. Once you get there, it is crucial to immerse yourself in the local culture, exploring elements such as food (try the traditional dish 'gallo pinto' in Costa Rica), music (listen to 'merengue' in the Dominican Republic), and history (visit the historic 'El Morro' in Puerto Rico). Learning some interesting facts about the culture can be both enjoyable and beneficial. Furthermore, each country has its unique dialect of Spanish, so it is essential to research and learn some keywords and phrases. This will not only help you communicate effectively but also help you understand the local community better.

Last but not least, find a way to contact a returning Program Leader who can share their experience and points of view with you.

Be Flexible

The most important information that you need to know will be shared with you closer to your program start date. The logistics are complex, and, like many things in life, some events are out of our control. So, be prepared for changes, especially last-minute ones, due to flight delays, national holidays, weather conditions, illness, and other factors that may reschedule or cancel activities. Being flexible is about adapting and going with the flow without getting stressed. It is a quality that will make you resilient, an essential trait for a successful Program Leader. Start practicing your patience from now!

Be Communicative

As a Program Leader, you won't be alone. You will be part of a team; communication is the key to staying connected and supported. Your supervisors have all the information you need to run your program and the answers to your questions and doubts. Trust them! But above all, your co-leaders are your most reliable support during the summer. You will share days and nights, so it is crucial that you get to know each other to function as a team. Therefore, open and honest communication is essential. Share your concerns and preferences, as well as what bothers you. But don't just focus on the negative; also, congratulate your co-leaders on their outstanding performances.

Be Ready to Make Mistakes

Nobody is perfect, and you will make mistakes during this job; it is expected! When this happens, act professionally. Start by identifying your mistake and its consequences, then see if there is a way to fix it. Share it with co-leaders and report it to your supervisors. Remember, making mistakes is part of the learning process, and it is with practice that you build yourself up as a Program Leader. Likewise, be receptive to feedback and constructive criticism, as it can help you avoid similar mistakes in the future. And if you are looking to reduce the chances of making mistakes, make the most of the training. During this week, you will have the opportunity to learn not only from the theoretical content but also from the experience of others. It is the ideal time to clarify doubts and express your fears. Don't be shy!

Be Aware of Yourself

As you know, the summer will be intense, and the program's sessions will run one after another. Be aware that you won't have much free time. In addition, you will be consumed by the students, as well as the activities and logistics. That being said, you must remember yourself. Self-awareness will be your best ally this summer. In fact, a good tool is to take a little time every morning to scan your emotions, your body, your mood, and your energy. If you realize you cannot do everything you agreed to that day, be honest and let your co-leaders know. When you do have some time off, use it wisely. You may like to practice a sport or hobby or socialize with others. Whatever it is, do something good for your body and mental health. You must also know your weaknesses, strengths, and limits. This will allow you to perform to the best of your abilities in the different areas of the program.

Bonus: What to Pack

Here is a list of things that should make sure to include in your backpack, as they are essential for your comfort and safety during the programs:

• Waterproof shoes
• Rain Jacket
• Dry bag
• Power bank
• Flashlight
• Water bottle
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Swimsuit
• Personal medication
• Community service clothing: long shorts or pants, short-sleeved shirts, and boots. To sum up, clothes that you don't mind staining or ripping during the activities.