Lauren Gette-King
Lauren was raised hiking and halibut-fishing in southcentral Alaska. She has a B.A. in Languages and recently completed a Masters in Public Health with a specialty in Global Health. She has taught Spanish to K-12 and University students, but decided to focus on immersion and experiential education and began traveling with students in 2018. She has led programs abroad in Ecuador, Costa Rica, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Spain. Within the US, she has led trips to remote Alaska, Montana, the US-Mexico border, and the American South. She is currently based in Puerto Rico where she spends her free time reading on the beach, hiking in the rainforest, and kayaking through the mangrove channels. As a Program Lead, she particularly loves showing students the beauty of the archipelago, helping them practice their Spanish, and doing some hardcore construction projects!
Where did you grow up?
Palmer, Alaska
Where do you call home now?
Helena, Montana
Year started at Global Works?
2020
What’s your favorite part about leading trips?
Getting to know each participant and discovering their potential. Students always amaze me!
What is something you can’t live without while you are traveling?
Chapstick, Chacos, and a good book
Tell us about a favorite memory from a trip you have taken
Swimming in the bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico and being surprised by a pod of dolphins
Where is your favorite place you have traveled to?
La Parguera, Puerto Rico
Fun fact, special talent, or favorite memory
I can lick my elbow!
What do you like to do in your free time?
Read, dance, kayak, lay on the beach, and try new foods and recipes
What languages do you speak?
English, Spanish, and I’m currently learning Italian
If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first travel experience, what would it be?
Lean into discomfort. Sometimes new experiences – like conversing in a different language or pushing yourself through a long hike – can be difficult. Embrace the new and unknown to learn more about yourself and the world.
Tell us why you are excited for this year’s trip!
I am excited to discover the beauty of Costa Rica and to show students some amazing public health practices that are unlike those of any other place in the world! Plus I really want to see a sloth!