Students looking for a cost-effective way to see the world have a new option – sign up for camp.

Camp Adventure is a nonprofit youth service program through the University of Northern Iowa that gives college-age students an opportunity to work with children while earning college credit and traveling the world.

Students can serve as counselors in their programs, working in a variety of different camps, including aquatics, sports and drama and with child development programs for children age 2 to 5.

In addition to experience, the program offers college credit, paid airfare and housing and a chance to experience other cultures.

Students in any major are encouraged to apply.

“I would definitely encourage anyone interested in trying something new to apply for Camp Adventure; it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to work with youth that are in great need, discover more about yourself and see different amazing parts of the world” said Michael Gleason, graduate student at the University of Northern Iowa.

“It is probably the best decision I have made in my life.”

Gleason has been involved in the program for four years and has been to Italy, Taiwan, Spain, Hawaii and Germany.

Kimberly Kiraly, junior in family and consumer science education, found out about Camp Adventure through the Study Abroad Fair, and has now traveled to Korea and Germany through the program.

Kiraly said some of the greatest benefits of the program were the moments that let her know she was making a difference in children’s lives.

“I was in Korea. It was one of my last days, if not my last day. I had been working with an interesting group of 6-year-olds, when one of the kids I really liked came over and looked at the background of my computer screen, which was a picture of my family, and he asked me if they were waiting for me. I said yes and then he told me that he would be waiting there for me,” Kiraly said.

“You don’t really realize the impact you have, it’s those kind of moments that you realize the kids really appreciate you and they tell you that.”

Kiraly encourages involvement in the program.

“It [the program] really sells itself, I think it’s one the best and cheapest way you can study abroad,” Kiraly said.

“I’ve had great life experiences and made some of my closest friends through this program. I’m addicted – I love it.”

The next Camp Adventure informational meetings will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on both Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 in 105 Kildee Hall.