"so...why/how are you going to Denmark?"

i've got that question a lot in the last couple of months.  the answer is simple.  i'm going because i was selected to be part of the GSE representing Eastern Missouri (District 6060) of Rotary International.  before you ask, no, i am not a member of the Rotary Club - in fact, non-membership was a requirement for me to be on the team...


confused?  sure you are...i would be.  just read the passage below.  i have borrowed it from the Rotary docs that i was given at the beginning of this process back in April, and it should clear things up....




"The Group Study Exchange (GSE) program is a unique cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for young business and professional men and women in their initial years of professional life. Rotary districts in different
countries are paired to send and receive professional study groups of four to six non-Rotarian team members and one Rotarian team leader to travel for four to six weeks, staying in the homes of Rotarians when
possible.
Launched in 1965, this dynamic program has built a successful track record at the personal, community, and international level. With good planning, a goal-driven
itinerary, and active participation of dedicated
Rotarians, a GSE can be an exceptional educational experience for both the visiting GSE team and local Rotarians.

Goals and objectives:
The GSE program is designed to develop professional and leadership skills among young adults, so that they can address the needs of their communities and an increasingly
global workplace.
GSE participants follow an extensive and rigorous program of international travel and team activities.

• Vocational visits
— Provide opportunities to observe vocations as practiced in another country
— Impact team members’ long-term careers through participation in an organized program of study, discussion,
and reciprocal exchange of ideas in their respective fields

• Cultural experiences
— Allow participants to study another country and its people, language, and institutions through experiences in an organized and meaningful host program
— Promote an appreciation of cultural diversity worldwide

• Fellowship opportunities
— Encourage team members and host to meet, communicate, and live with each other in a spirit of fellowship and goodwill
— Consider each other’s problems, aspirations, and community concerns
— Foster lasting friendships and international understanding

• Rotarian involvement
— Offers Rotarians specific, practical, and meaningful opportunities for international service by providing
young, formative professionals a different perspective of their vocation in another country and culture"