Living In Boston

The GIB program accepts 12–15 students per semester, from both Gordon and non-Gordon colleges, as full-time students who are immersed in the urban culture. Students live together in an intentional Christian community setting near the city center on the major subway line north of Boston. (NOTE: Plans are still in process for an exact location.) In this setting, students enjoy the opportunity of creating together an environment that cares for the individual while also intentionally holding one another accountable for wise and temperate behavior, for care of the physical facility, for engagement of the neighborhood and for meeting together frequently in prayer, devotion and honest communication. A resident assistant is hired by the program to help students in developing this intentional community. The RA is responsible for organizing community meals, leading house meetings, dealing with conflict, and crafting opportunities for community outreach.

As a part of the cost of the program, all participants are given monthly passes for the public transportation system known as the MBTA—or “T” for short. These T-passes cover all transportation needs within a broad area of greater Boston and include subway, busses and water taxis—helping students get to internships and courses in the city. Except in extraordinary situations, students are prohibited from having personal cars. Regular van transportation to the main Gordon campus in Wenham, MA (20-minute drive) is coordinated for students whose schedules may require them to take a course there.

Additionally, the cost of the program includes a membership to the local YMCA facility where students can enjoy the benefits of a fully staffed work-out arena.