The program provides an opportunity for American students to learn about other cultures and to discuss global issues with international students who serve as resource persons in the classroom. As a supplement to the existing curriculum in the schools, such encounters are used to stimulate interest and involvement in what is happening around the world.

The Global Perspectives Program is utilized by a broad spectrum of schools and school districts throughout Rochester and its outlying areas. The program can be integrated into the curriculum in a meaningful way by consultation between the teacher and the international student before the visit.

Global Perspectives visitors come prepared to discuss a wide range of topics such as their country, family, community structure (teenage situations, dating, marriage customs), government, economic systems, and historical background. Students may be involved in multi-cultural days and discussions, as well as in individual classroom presentations.

The success of and need for the program is evident by its many years of existence in Rochester schools and by the numerous requests by teachers and a significant number of American students who benefit each year from Global Perspective presentations in their classrooms.