Emily Bernstein

B.A. Boston University, International Relations with a concentration in Middle East and
North African studies.

Emily Bernstein grew up in Westchester County, New York, where she first discovered Where
There Be Dragons at her high school’s summer and gap year fair. After her sophomore year,
she traveled with Dragons to Jordan—a transformative experience that sparked a deep curiosity
about the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Through immersive homestays and
strong group connections, Emily came to understand the powerful role that experiential learning
plays in shaping global perspectives and deepening cross-cultural understanding. This
experience inspired her to continue building meaningful connections at home and abroad
through education and engagement.

In 2021, driven by her continued passion for Dragons’ ethos, Emily joined the Where There Be
Dragons Admin Team in Boulder, Colorado, as a Marketing and Outreach Coordinator. In
addition to her administrative role, she supported a partnership program in the Southwestern
United States and served as an instructor for programs in Cambodia. There, she helped guide
students through immersive, experiential learning experiences that helped students hone in on
power skills, foster meaningful relationships, and encouraged personal growth.

Today, Emily serves as the Faculty-Led Programs Coordinator at UNC Charlotte Education
Abroad. In this role, she advises students, supports faculty, and collaborates on the design and
delivery of transformative study abroad programs that emphasize intercultural learning, ethical
travel, and community-based experiences.

In her free time, Emily loves camping, going on road trips with friends, and hosting gatherings at
home.