How do I become involved in Immersion Service Learning?

• Information may be obtained by contacting the Immersion Service Learning Program at (902) 867-2583 or smackay@stfx.ca.
• To apply for the Immersion Service Learning program, please complete the on-line Application Form.
• Students can incorporate their immersion experience as an assignment within the following courses: IDS 305, BIOL 391 (Dr. Edwin DeMont), SPAN 100 & 200 (Dr. Wojciech Tokarz's courses), & DEVS 311 (Dr. Jonathan Langdon).

How much do the Immersion experiences cost; what do these costs include and who pays for costs?

• Fees range from $900 - $2400 for 2012-2013 immersion experiences and prices vary based on the destination chosen.
• Fees cover out of pocket expenses for each participant such as airfare, hotels en route, in country meals and accommodations, in country transportation, and host agency/partner costs.
• Fees are paid by participants in four installments throughout the year.
• Students should bring money for incidentals such as: water, snacks, souvenirs, meals en route, etc.

Which costs are not included in the Immersion experiences cost?

• Passport fees
• Immunizations (if required)
• Visa fees (if required)
• Transportation to and from Halifax Stanfield International Airport
• Meals en route

What types of Immersion Service Learning experiences are offered and how many students participate in each immersion experience?

We offer immersion experiences in the following locations:

• Belize - 11 students
• Cuba - up to 14 students
• Grenada - 12 students
• Guatemala - 12 students
• L'Arche Ottawa - 3 students
• Mexico - up to 14 students

Do I need to speak the language of the host country I am travelling to?

• No, interpreters are provided by the host agency/partner and remain with the group at all times.  It is not necessary to speak the language of the host country.
• SPAN 100 & 200 (Dr. Wojciech Tokarz's courses) offer an Immersion Service Learning assignment.

What options are available to help raise funds to pay for immersion experience fees?

• Bursaries are awarded on a financial need basis. Bursary Application Forms are available on-line.
• StFX offers general bursaries which may be applied to the immersion experience fees: http://sites.stfx.ca/financial_aid/.
• Many students also fundraise independently or in groups in Antigonish and their home community.

Will I need a passport?

• Yes, for all destinations except L'Arche Ottawa, a passport is required. 
• Cuba participants must provide their passport information by the end of November.
• If your passport will expire within 6 months of the return date of your Immersion experience, you will need to apply for a new passport.
• Information on obtaining a Canadian Passport is available at http://www.ppt.gc.ca/.

Are certain immunizations required for traveling to the immersion destinations?

• Yes, immunizations are required for certain destinations.  For more information regarding travel health, please refer to Travel Health Information.

Will I receive course credit for participating in Immersion Service Learning?

• The immersion experience itself does not provide course credit.  It is a personal learning experience.
• Students can incorporate their immersion experience as an assignment within the following courses: IDS 305, BIOL 391 (Dr. Edwin DeMont), SPAN 100 & 200 (Dr. Wojciech Tokarz's courses), & DEVS 311 (Dr. Jonathan Langdon).

Are overseas experiences worth it?
 
Globe and Mail:  Ask the Kielburgers (Tuesday, November 7, 2011)

Does StFX have any opportunities to study or work abroad?

• StFX offers international learning opportunities and has developed partnerships with universities around the world.  For more information, please contact the International Exchange Office.
• The Coady International Institute offers a Youth In Partnership Program.