I loved the dorm-style living and the opportunity for meaningful discussions in and out of the classroom [at the Academy]. I was a...I loved the dorm-style living and the opportunity for meaningful discussions in and out of the classroom [at the Academy]. I was able to hear more about other Academy students' opinions and experiences. Since Academy, I have been better at seeking out and having those discussions that lead to continued learning and understanding of others.

Academy Alum 2019

Living in Mexico and studying social justice topics opened my eyes to the day-to-day challenges that people face, not only globall...Living in Mexico and studying social justice topics opened my eyes to the day-to-day challenges that people face, not only globally but also right in my own backyard. I also gained great knowledge of cross-cultural differences while there.

Academy Alum 2013

My perspective on life and myself entirely changed due to Academy. I truly didn’t understand poverty or my impact on the world u...My perspective on life and myself entirely changed due to Academy. I truly didn’t understand poverty or my impact on the world until LiveDifferent and Academy. 'A Week in the Life' gave me the opportunity to struggle in a way I never experienced before, and it was definitely the most impactful part for me... It forced me [to] understand a piece of what it’s like for others... Now, I do my absolute best to not waste food...and share my experience with everyone I can.

Academy Alum 2014

The Academy impacted me in such a big way. I am now more open to learning about the important issues happening around us and what ...The Academy impacted me in such a big way. I am now more open to learning about the important issues happening around us and what we can do to help. The Academy also showed me how to work as a team and live with others, helping me grow and improve my communication skills. It helped me realize that I wanted to go back to school to become a social worker... The social justice classes impacted me the most... giving me the opportunity to educate myself, and now I love learning about what is going on in the world.

Academy Alum 2019

I identify the Academy as the turning point in my adult life. It had vast impacts on me and my perception of many things. Upon my ...I identify the Academy as the turning point in my adult life. It had vast impacts on me and my perception of many things. Upon my return, the biggest notable difference was my attitude towards education; I gained an appreciation for the opportunity...became dedicated, hard-working, and made the most of it. The lessons LDA taught me—from social injustice, the effects of poverty, the value of education, the meaning of friendships and teamwork—it all led me to where I am now. I couldn’t thank the LDA enough for the positive impact it has had on my life, and subsequently the positive impact I am having on my community.

Academy Alum 2014

I consider the Academy to be one of the most life-changing things I have done. It greatly impacted the way in which I interact wit...I consider the Academy to be one of the most life-changing things I have done. It greatly impacted the way in which I interact with the world. The weekly dinners with a local family and the 'Week in the Life' impacted the way I see and understand community, and... my views on politics, social justice, and the environment. This trip was my first time being independent from my family, so I really learned a lot about myself.

Academy Alum 2017

LDA greatly influenced my life in all aspects. The two biggest changes I correlate to my experiences at LDA are my overall self-co...LDA greatly influenced my life in all aspects. The two biggest changes I correlate to my experiences at LDA are my overall self-confidence and my knowledge of social justice issues. LDA introduced me to some of the most influential people in my life. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals allowed me to feel confident in who I am and influenced me to pursue my dreams. Without LDA, I would not have pursued a career in social work and continued to volunteer within my community. My time living in Mexico and studying a social justice curriculum opened my eyes to many injustices globally.

Academy Alum 2013

The Academy changed my whole perspective on my future. I changed what I wanted to go to college for; I’m now a nurse as I discov...The Academy changed my whole perspective on my future. I changed what I wanted to go to college for; I’m now a nurse as I discovered that I love working with people and helping people as much as I can. The Academy also helped me mature a lot, be better at speaking confidently... and find more passion in daily living.

Academy Alum 2012

In general, my knowledge and attitude towards various issues in the world, and some that translated into my life, were greatly imp...In general, my knowledge and attitude towards various issues in the world, and some that translated into my life, were greatly impacted from the LDA.

Academy Alum 2013

Academy impacted me on so many beautiful levels. Our classes brought to light many important issues... [which] shaped who I am now...Academy impacted me on so many beautiful levels. Our classes brought to light many important issues... [which] shaped who I am now, and many of those issues became topics I am very passionate about. Academy kickstarted many viewpoints I have developed since then... I am so much more confident in what I stand for. On a personal level, Academy also kickstarted a lot of internal growth... an opportunity to identify parts of myself that were holding me back... the start to a long period of self-reflecting and improving... This reflected deeply in my relationships... I was more grateful and more willing to improve those relationships. I love that LiveDifferent shapes their actions based on the voices of local people.

Academy Alum 2019

Academy impacted me in many ways: it allowed me to grow into the person I am today, I developed lifelong friendships, and Academy ...Academy impacted me in many ways: it allowed me to grow into the person I am today, I developed lifelong friendships, and Academy solidified for me that I wanted to pursue a future in development. Being given space to grow, freedom, and a sense of independence... with a sense of community within the group was great. The educational curriculum opened my eyes... the teachings we got in Mexico had me excited to begin school and build upon the learning that Academy provided.

Academy Alum 2014

[The Academy] really helped me to understand what I want to do in the future and helped me to evolve to the person I am now. Getti...[The Academy] really helped me to understand what I want to do in the future and helped me to evolve to the person I am now. Getting to explore the local area with other students really helped to build a lot of independence and confidence, [and I made] strong friendships.

Maryssa, Academy Alum 2014

My time with LiveDifferent [Academy] was one of the most impactful times in my life. It showed me what it is like to live with a s...My time with LiveDifferent [Academy] was one of the most impactful times in my life. It showed me what it is like to live with a sense of purpose and has forever changed what I look for in both my professional and personal life. I always look back on this time as the time I felt most purposeful and alive, which is something I strive for in everything I do now.

Carina, Academy Alum 2012

[The Academy] helped me see where I wanted to go in life and how grateful I am for everything I have back home. Spending time with...[The Academy] helped me see where I wanted to go in life and how grateful I am for everything I have back home. Spending time with our host families and getting to know what life is like... was significant. LiveDifferent is an amazing organization... I am very grateful for each experience I’ve had with [them].

Alyea, Academy Alum 2017

[The Academy] was honestly the biggest turning point in my life. It helped me realize what I wanted to do with my life and where m...[The Academy] was honestly the biggest turning point in my life. It helped me realize what I wanted to do with my life and where my priorities lie. It made me realize that I could do more than I give myself credit for [and] it made me feel more sure of myself. The 'Week in the Life' was a big turning point for me... a really eye-opening experience. Since the Academy, I realized that I wanted to help people...for the rest of my life.

Jadyn, Academy Alum 2016

[The Academy was my] first time spending time around people interested in helping others, [who have a] similar mindset and drive t...[The Academy was my] first time spending time around people interested in helping others, [who have a] similar mindset and drive to have careers and lives with purpose... LiveDifferent has a special place in my heart. [It] wasn't a perfect experience but I learned so much about myself and others, and [it] continues to guide some of my decisions. [It has affected my career and life choices as I want] to do things that are meaningful and serving others.

Carrington, Academy Alum 2014

The Academy forced me out of my comfort zone, which allowed for a lot of growth. It gave me a new perspective on Mexican culture a...The Academy forced me out of my comfort zone, which allowed for a lot of growth. It gave me a new perspective on Mexican culture and life in general. Attending the Academy has taught me that the most valuable experiences are those found outside my comfort zone and to take advantage of those experiences... The biggest experience would be spending time and developing a relationship with host families. Without LD, an opportunity like this would not be possible.

Chelsey, Academy Alum 2017

The Academy exposed me to many different social justice issues... It helped me learn how to connect with others and reflect on my ...The Academy exposed me to many different social justice issues... It helped me learn how to connect with others and reflect on my personal privilege. In general, the academy made me a more well-rounded individual. The relationships I developed [with] LiveDifferent staff, academy members, and community members [were significant]. LiveDifferent is an organization that has a special place in my life. I am thankful for the incredible staff and experiences that the organization has provided me with.

Brandi, Academy Alum 2013

My time in Academy was pivotal to allowing me to open up, so that I am controlling my life instead of my life controlling me. Sinc...My time in Academy was pivotal to allowing me to open up, so that I am controlling my life instead of my life controlling me. Since coming home I have a lot of confidence... doing things I would not have imagined beforehand now that [I've] pushed out of my comfort zone. It also gave me the ability to see things from others' perspectives [and] to put aside fear so that I am willing to take risks... It means everything to me that [LiveDifferent] gave me the opportunity to participate.

Melissa, Academy Alum 2015

My Build trip in 2014... led to LDA. And then the Build and LDA led me [to] realize a passion for global development... The entire...My Build trip in 2014... led to LDA. And then the Build and LDA led me [to] realize a passion for global development... The entire experience [at LDA] was significant because it was my first time away from home with all new people... [it] allowed me to grow [and] pushed me to grow and not be dependent on my parents.

Ariel, Academy Alum 2016

[I would recommend the Academy] because it's perfect! It helps you realize your potential and find out the things that you're real...[I would recommend the Academy] because it's perfect! It helps you realize your potential and find out the things that you're really good in a manner that makes you feel like you're achieving something great. My experience with the Mexico semester is nothing but completely positive; I loved it. I feel like I grew a lot... I'm much more mature and confident in my abilities. I also feel like I'm a lot less afraid of doing things or speaking up... and I think that helped me become a much stronger person overall. I've also very much improved my people skills and am overall much happier.

Brigitte, Academy Alum 2012

I would highly recommend this program because it is such a unique growing experience that helps you see how you can make a differe...I would highly recommend this program because it is such a unique growing experience that helps you see how you can make a difference in the world. I have grown so much during this program... my leaders helped me out so much and they were always there when I needed them. They helped me through my personal growth so much. Such an amazing experience!

Jenna, Academy Alum 2012

Being in a place like this really teaches you about yourself and shows you what you are capable of! You have so many opportunities...Being in a place like this really teaches you about yourself and shows you what you are capable of! You have so many opportunities to grow as a person and figure out who you are... It is an amazing experience! I am continuously surprised and amazed by the sense of community and the generosity of the people... It really helps you discover who you are and what you want in life. Being in Mexico, I really learned what it means to live. I'm glad I chose to LiveDifferent.

Cheyenne, Academy Alum 2012