Trip Preparations for Student Trips

Below is a list of suggested activities that trip leaders might consider as part of the trip preparations for student trips. Please refer to this chart when you are planning a student trip.

Task What is Involved

1) Student Selection Process

- advertising the trip to students

- creating an application form/process

- reviewing student applications

- interviews

- selecting and notifying students

2) Fundraising

(if applicable)

- overseeing fundraising activities in which the students are involved 

- approaching donors 

3) Group Meetings

 

- discuss the travel itinerary, trip activities, and expectations

- discuss the learning outcomes and how they will be achieved/assessed

- learn about the country (history, geography, climate, local culture, language, and customs, etc.)

- learn about the partner organization (if applicable)

- discuss the requirements for international travel (e.g. passport, visa, vaccines, what to pack, international cell phone plan, currency, what to do in an emergency situation, etc.)

 

Mohawk International can:

- help arrange the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) and group results

- provide access to pre-trip learning modules 

- review the requirements for international travel (passports, visas, how to pack, etc.)

- review travel risks and potential emergency situations

- review guard.me International Insurance and the services they provide

- ensure students complete the Registration of Canadians Abroad

 

4) Pre-Trip Logistics

- research and purchase plane tickets

- arrange transportation to and from airport

- research and book accommodations

- research and book in-country transportation

- obtain visas or travel permits (if required)

- consult with travel doctor re. vaccines, medications

- submit ethics application to Research Ethics Board (if required). Note: the REB review process takes at least 4 weeks.

- monitor your destination’s Travel Advisory for any changes

- communications and arrangements with in-country partners/contacts (as applicable)

 

Mohawk International can:

- provide advice on the above items, as needed

- collect student info and for guard.me International Insurance and purchasing the insurance

- lead a pre-trip orientation to ensure students are prepared to travel, have signed all waivers, etc.