Putney Student Travel is committed to providing programs that inspire, enrich, and educate students worldwide. Summer after summer, students and parents report increased confidence, personal growth, and a clearer sense of their place in the world—not to mention the memories and friendships they made in just a few short weeks. Whichever type of program you choose, our students’ testimonials reflect an experience rooted in stewardship, community, and cultural exchange. But don’t just take our word for it. Find real parent and student reviews of the Putney experience below.
“I was incredibly impressed by the number and variety of activities that the program included. As a parent watching from afar it was very clear that this was not Putney’s first rodeo and I think the students really benefitted from that depth of experience.”
—Jonathan G.
New York, NY
“I learned so much about caring for the land and being respectful of the space you’re in and I will definitely carry that forward.”
—Carrie H.
Brooklyn Prospect Charter School
Brooklyn, NY
“This program has given my daughter the confidence to know she can go and make friends anywhere, do anything, and thrive.”
—Tamara S.
Redondo Beach, CA
“The community service left me feeling so fulfilled and proud that I could make such a difference for the people around me.”
—Ivy D.
Laguna Beach High School
Laguna Beach, CA
“We’ve already seen the growth in our son’s independence since the program. He gained valuable life experience and a wider perspective of the world.”
—Aimee L.
Washington, DC
“My greatest sense of accomplishment came from stepping out of my comfort zone. I realized that I am capable of so much more than I thought.”
—Koudiegui S.
Harlem Village Academies High School
New York, NY
“This trip had such a positive impact on my daughter. These are memories that will build her confidence and self awareness.”
—Luisella M.
New York, NY
“The experience was powerful for me. It taught me the value of traveling to a place not just for the sights or monuments, but the people I can find there.”
—Andre E.
Tasis Dorado
Dorado, PR
“My daughter was initially nervous about fitting in, but wound up feeling very much a part of the group. Everyone was committed to being there and embracing their time with each other and the local community.”
—Joanna W.
Brooklyn, NY
“I gained a greater understanding of my own impact on others. Every moment I spent with the locals in Zaouiat, Morocco, stands out because even the language barriers could not stop their kindness from showing.”
—Lucy S.
Home School
Northbrook, IL
“My son learned the value of physical labor, appreciated the break from his phone, and made friendships that will be long-lasting.”
—Giselle L.
Arlington, VA
“We had a great balance on our trip. We did a lot of service work, learned about the local culture, AND still had time for the silly, fun stuff!”
—Carrie H.
Brooklyn Prospect Charter School
Brooklyn, NY
“Our boys were gently nudged out of their comfort zones and grew so much as people.”
—Trina & Corey B.
Lucas, TX
“The cultural immersion and human connection was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Going through the experience each day with new friends and peers created unbreakable bonds.”
—Aarya S.
James Logan High School
Union City, CA
“Our daughter had never been in a situation where she could interact with native speakers, so for her to get the opportunity and have them understand her was amazing. She gained more confidence and an even stronger sense of adventure.”
—Brooke & Julian R.
Greenville, MA
“My Putney program pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me that I find joy in trying new things.”
—Azalea W.
St. Ann’s School
New York, NY
“The Putney Student Travel program was spectacular. The combination of physical challenges peppered with culture, capped with a homestay, provided everything our family could want. I could not recommend it more.”
—Kathleen & Micheal F.
West Roxbury, MA
“After our group finished all of our service projects, I felt a great sense of accomplishment. I was very proud of the work we did and how well we worked together! I gained a sense of pride and independence because I learned what I am capable of.”
—Wynne K.
Horace Greeley High School
Chappaqua, NY
“When our son came back, he knew he could accomplish anything. With a supportive team behind him, he became brave enough to face unfamiliar situations. He felt like a hero in his own story.”
—Xiaoming C.
Portland, ME
“Language barriers have always made it challenging for me to connect with people, but now I know that I can build relationships with people around the world. I feel like talking with the locals has enriched my life so much.”
—Jada M.
The Hockaday School
Irving, TX
“Talia loved all of it—the writing instruction, exploring the country, the people, the instructors, the independence of it. She gained a lot of confidence and some very close new friends.”
—Debra L.
Natick, MA
“I thought it was a really powerful thing to live with a host family. I made deep and meaningful connections with people who I would have never otherwise gotten to know in the same way. For that I am very grateful.”
—Holden D.
Denver Jewish Day School
Denver, CO
“We hoped for Holden to learn to be a traveler and appreciate another community’s culture. The program exceeded our expectations.”
—Jenny & Brent G.
Atlanta, GA
“The people I met through Putney gave me the greatest sense of accomplishment. While some gave me perspective on my own life, others have inspired me to live as a kinder and more thoughtful person.”
—Lucy S.
Packer Collegiate Institute
Brooklyn, NY
“Our daughter came home braver and excited to take on the world. How can you put a price on that?”
—Jennifer & Glenn F.
Gainesville, FL
