The PAL Program was designed to be highly interactive and fun.  Leadership development and cooperative problem solving skills were integrated into all aspects of the program in order to help students improve their own self-concept as well as develop lasting friendships.  Each week was guided by a specific theme that related to the overall goals and objectives of the program.  The first week highlighted the importance of teambuilding in order to help students get to know each other and begin the relationship building process.  Week two focused on cultural awareness and valuing diversity to help students recognize not only the differences and commonalities around them, but also the unique and shared qualities each one of them possesses.   The last week provided community service learning opportunities for the students and helped them learn about the community needs in Amherst and the surrounding areas.

In order to support the weekly themes, the program was built around five main strategies: (1) Skills Training; (2) Teambuilding Activities and Group Projects; (3) Field Trips; (4) Social, Cultural, and Recreational Activities; and (5) Service Learning.  Click on each strategy to learn more and see photos.