Lehigh Launch Ecuador

Abstract

This chapter discusses Lehigh Launch Ecuador, an academic program launched in Fall 2022 in which newly admitted Lehigh University students spend their first (Fall) semester in Ecuador. The program, intended to be accessible to students in all majors, is focused on the theme of environmental sustainability to take advantage of the rich biological and cultural diversity of Ecuador and attract students with an interest in the Galápagos Islands and Amazon rainforest. Designed as an experiential, integrative living learning community for intellectually curious and independent students, Lehigh Launch Ecuador seeks to help students develop interpersonal skills (including teamwork and leadership), academic and disciplinary skills, intellectual curiosity, global citizenship, and personal well-being.