Immersion Service Learning - Frequently Asked Questions


How do I become involved in Immersion Service Learning (ISL)?

  • Information may be obtained by contacting the ISL Program at (902) 867-2583 or smackay@stfx.ca.
  • To apply for the ISL 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:

Will my grades affect my acceptance into the ISL program?

  • Students must be in good academic standing to be accepted into the ISL program (e.g., not on academic probation) and are strongly encouraged to maintain a GPA of 55 or higher, if they wish to participate in the ISL program.
  • With the exception of Belize, the immersion experiences take place during Reading Week.  Students who do not have strong grades should consider whether they should be away during Reading Week and consider how this will affect their academics and study plan.

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.
  • Spanish classes will be offered to ISL participants in January and February 2013.

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

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?