students

Frequently Asked Questions


» Jamaica
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General Beyond Borders FAQs

Do I need a passport to participate in Beyond Borders?
Click the following link for more information about getting a passport
http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html


FAQs for Beyond Borders - Jamaica

Am I eligible to participate in Beyond Borders - Jamaica?
All students enrolled at Florida State University who are in good academic and judicial standing are eligible to participate with Beyond Borders. Beyond Borders is an intense cultural exchange program that will allow you to increase your global competencies in an ever changing global society. In the past, students who have backgrounds in International Affairs, Arts, Caribbean Culture, Political Science and History have had an exceptionally good responses regarding the program. We welcome all students from all fields of study and backgrounds.

If selected, where would I live in Jamaica?  Where do the students from Jamaica live?
The cultural exchange of students makes Beyond Borders the success that it is today. Students from UWI stay in FSU residence halls with resident assistants, and therefore FSU students do not host in their homes the UWI exchange students. However, the FSU team members do play a large role in the planning and execution of the program (this is crucial). FSU students live in UWI residence halls as well while visiting Jamaica. This is so students can experience what everyday college life is like.

Costa Rica VegetationWho will I know once I get to Jamaica?
Beyond Borders is an exchange program. Meaning students from UWI come to the FSU and students from FSU travel to UWI. This is what makes the program unique. In October, twelve UWI students and four staff members travel to FSU for one week. During this time, you will be involved with the planning of their activities, spending time with them, participating in dialogues and just hanging out. When you go to UWI in March, the same students that visited FSU will return the same hospitality to you in Jamaica.

Is there any school work involved?
Yes. You will be required to take place in a semester-long, once a week class - INR3931 - for an hour credit during the spring semester of your departure. The class will cover many topics from safety to learning about the history/culture of Jamaica. The cost of the class is NOT included in your program fee.

Is there any volunteer work?
UWI students do partake in some volunteer activities while they are here at FSU. The UWI students are very involved on their campus and run their own service projects. FSU students in Jamaica will participate in some light volunteer activities such spending time with Jamaican elementary school students, painting and doing work in various other agencies. Although the volunteer work is not extraneous or extensive, it is a very important part of the trip.

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FAQs for Beyond Borders - Germany

Am I eligible to participate in Beyond Borders - Germany?
All students enrolled at Florida State University who are in good academic and judicial standing are eligible to participate with Beyond Borders. Beyond Borders is an intense cultural exchange program that will allow you to increase your global competencies in an ever changing global society. In the past, students who have backgrounds in International Affairs, Arts, German Language/Culture, Political Science and History have had an exceptionally good responses regarding the program. We welcome all students from all fields of study and backgrounds.

If selected, where would I live in Dresden?  Where do the students from Germany live?
The cultural exchange of students makes Beyond Borders the success that it is today. Students from TU-D stay in a dormitory on campus; FSU students do not host the German exchange students in their homes. However, FSU students do play a large role in the planning and execution of the program (this is crucial). While they are in Dresden, FSU students will live in a dormitory located on the University campus, near the cafeteria and Straßenbahn (street rail) station.

Do I need to speak German to participate in Beyond Borders?
Speaking German is not a requirement to participate in Beyond Borders, in fact, students who do not speak German have participated with great success in the past. However, students with some German language ability have had an easier time communicating in the city. Knowledge of German is helpful, but not required and your language skills will improve in Germany.

Who will I know once I get to Germany?
Beyond Borders is an exchange program. Meaning students from Germany come to the FSU and students from FSU travel to Germany. This is what makes the program unique. In February and March, ten German students and one staff member travel to FSU for three weeks. During this time, you will be involved with the planning of their activities, spending time with them, participating in dialogues and just hanging out. When you go to Germany in May, the same students who were at FSU will return the same hospitality to you in Dresden.

Is there any school work involved?
Yes. You will be required to participate in a semester-long, once a week class - INR3931 - for an hour credit during the spring semester of your departure. The class will cover many topics from safety to learning about the history/culture of Germany. The cost of the class is NOT included in your program fee.

Any volunteer work?
TUD students do partake in some volunteer activities while they are here at FSU. The social systems of the USA and Germany are different and volunteerism is not as promoted as it is here. FSU students in Dresden will participate in some light volunteer activities such as visiting home for disabled and visiting a school for children with disabilities. This is a small part of the exchange.

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