Pre-Departure Handbook: Preparing for a High Impact Journey

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ThinkImpact Institute Preparation Snapshot THE THINKIMPACT MODEL Mission Model ThinkImpact University The Innovator Curriculum School Of Record Optional Excursions ROLE OF THINKIMPACT SCHOLARS Scholar Responsibilities Behavior Policy INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL PLANNING Passport Information Visa Information Embassies and Consulates Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) Arranging Flights Arriving Late/Leaving Early Baggage and Packing Immigration, Customs and Declarations Jet Lag Travel Resources COMMUNITY IMMERSION AND LIFE ABROAD Community Immersion Cultural Adjustment Homestay Families and Accommodations Homestay Do’s and Don’ts Communication Transportation in Destination Country FINANCIAL INFORMATION Payment Details Program Fee Inclusions Program Fee Exclusions

345557799

10101115151517171818182020202121212324262728282929

Empowered.Org Travel Fundraising General Applicants Cancellation/Refund Policy for ThinkImpact Institutes Roll Over Policy for ThinkImpact Institutes BANKING ABROAD Local Currency Cash, Bank Cards and Credit Cards Traveler’s Checks HEALTH AND SAFETY ABROAD ThinkImpact Commitment to Health and Well-being of Scholars What Constitutes an Emergency? Emergency Response 24 Hour Services Staying Healthy Abroad Participants with Special Health or Medical Needs Prescription Medications INSURANCE Ace Insurance Policy Maintaining Primary Health Insurance Coverage Loss/Theft of Personal Property Travel Insurance ACCESSIBLE STUDY ABROAD Resources for Underrepresented Participants Abroad RETURNING HOME Changing Flights Entering the U.S. Reverse Culture Shock CONNECTING WITH ALUMNI Contacting Alumni and Parents ThinkImpact Alumni Testimonials

3031333434343435353636373739394040414141424243434343444445

INTRODUCTION

The ThinkImpact team is excited to work with you as you prepare for your upcoming journey in innovation with us. We hold all of our Scholars to the highest of standards and know you will rise to all challenges that come your way from pre-departure through your time abroad. Your journey begins now, as you take the intellectual and logistical steps necessary to prepare for your ThinkImpact experience. Throughout your time in your host country you will be fully im-mersed in what we call the innovation process.

As a ThinkImpact Scholar, you will wear many hats. You will be a facilitator, a leader, an innova-tor, a designer and ultimately a catalyst for sustainable social change. Through this process you will build meaningful relationships with community partners, begin to understand a new cul-ture in a new and exciting way, formulate meaningful questions that guide your understand-ing of economic development, and ultimately prototype new products and services that will change lives in your community.

Please carefully review all of the pre-departure information provided through this handbook as you prepare for the journey of a lifetime! Our goal is to facilitate your path by giving you the information, tools, and support while empowering you to take full advantage of and responsi-bility for your time abroad.

3

ThinkImpact Institute Preparation Snapshot

Upon acceptance to the ThinkImpact pro-gram, Scholars are provided this pre-depar-ture handbook and asked to confirm their in-tent to participate through submission of the Scholar Confirmation Form and payment of a $500 non-refundable deposit. You will also receive Empowered.org Fundraising Platform Instructions. Please review them carefully and in order, as they will provide the informa-tion you need to be prepared for the Institute. Country and community specific information (including packing lists, language and region-al information, and health and travel forms) will be sent to you once your confirmation and $500 deposit has been made.

Approximately two weeks prior to departure, you can expect to receive your curriculum (the Innovator). Lastly, a final pre-trip call or webinar will be scheduled with your admis-sions coordinator to discuss final logistics and departure reminders.

Now that you have a general idea of what

can be expected as you prepare, please read

further for more details about your program,

inclusions, expectations and more.

4

THE THINKIMPACT MODEL

With full time staff in the U.S. and in all des-tination countries, ThinkImpact provides programs, called “Institutes”, for participants, majors, and all faculty who would like to take the innovation leap that ThinkImpact offers. ThinkImpact Institutes are immersion pro-grams in social and health innovation and entrepreneurship for participants and faculty who value collaborative, sustainable ap-proaches to community development. Our programs place participants in rural commu-nities in Rwanda, South Africa, and Panama where they work side by side with the com-munity to identify innovative solutions to social and/or health challenges.

Through innovation and entrepreneurship, ThinkImpact Scholars will work in partnership with the community to create solutions to

Mission:To power experiential education programs that catalyze social innovation and entrepreneurship.

target a social or health need, seek to improve living conditions while providing added in-come to the business creators. We do this by making use of local assets (materials, skills, and resources that can be found in the com-munity) to decrease dependency on outside donors and create self-sufficiency. We seek out people who are passionate about improv-ing their communities and are not motivated by money or financial gains, and work to con-nect our design teams to other organizations who can provide support after the Institutes. Examples of successful projects include cre-ating efficiencies in mushroom and vegetable sack farming in Rwanda, development of cul-tural and environmental tourism in Panama, and the production of homeopathic medicinal products in South Africa.

5

Scholars will be placed in the community with carefully selected and trusted host families

The Scholars’ experience is guided by ThinkImpact’s pre-designed Innovator Curriculum (more detail provided later in this document)

On eight week Institutes, as Scholars progress through the curriculum, you will select local design team members (who are endorsed by a ThinkImpact Community Committee)

Scholars work hand in hand with design teams to research community challenges and iden-tify possible solutions using local resources

The Scholar and design teams create a prototype and are provided feedback by community members

As Scholars depart you will help set the design teams up for success to continue with the product/service

Here is what you can expect the Institute journey to look like:

It is important to remember that while ThinkImpact Scholars are crucial to the success of each community project, ownership of the project lies in the hands of the local design teams, NOT the Scholars.

•

•

•

•

•

•

6

ThinkImpact University (TIU) is the pre-Institute training/orientation that you will go through before meeting your homestay fam-ily and beginning the ThinkImpact Institute. During TIU you will:

• Be introduced to ThinkImpact’s history, philosophy, and vision• Get to know your ThinkImpact staff and team of Scholars• Begin to explore the language and cul-ture of your host country, conduct a thor-ough overview of The Innovator (curricu-lum)• Review community/homestay dos and don’ts• Learn how to stay healthy and safe in your new environment• Participate in a cultural activity (i.e. a visit to a museum, speaker, or cultural site)• Meet with local NGOs, businesses, gov-ernment, entrepreneurs, etc.• Review the importance of ThinkImpact rules and guidelines • Get the chance for ThinkImpact staff to answer any lingering questions!

ThinkImpact University is typically two nights for an 8 day Institute, three nights for 3 week Institute and 4 nights for 8 week Institutes and is held in the international city of arrival for your respective Institute.

ThinkImpact’s Innovator curriculum encourages a creative mindset that allows participants to apply their knowledge and skills to the challeng-es facing local communities. In direct partner-ship with community members, Scholars begin by identifying assets and resources, and then brainstorming, prototyping, and testing solu-tions to challenges with a social and/or health impact. By emphasizing creativity and innova-tion within an environment of empathy, cross-cultural understanding and in-depth exploration of local context, ThinkImpact’s programs facili-tate hard and soft skill development.

Students can expect to receive a copy of the Innovator and a supplemental Reader approxi-mately two weeks prior to the Institute. This will be mailed to your permanent address unless you specify otherwise. You must bring the Innova-tor and accompanying Reader with you as it will be referenced throughout the Institute.

ThinkImpact University

If you have an Android or Apple ios product you are welcome

to bring it to the Institute. You will be given access to the mo-

bile version of the curriculum through the application Unleesh.

Please download Unleesh on the Google Play or Apple Store

before you depart.

7

The Innovator Curriculum

At ThinkImpact we believe experiential learning is like going down a path. During the Institute the path is one where Scholars are confronted with an array of challenges and opportunities. We describe the mission of the Innovator in the following “Path Statement”: To experience life in a rural community and work with community members to identify opportunities for social and/or health innovation.

You may have gotten the gist that we want to encourage some independence and freedom for creativity on your part…which is why we want to create the best possible educational and entrepreneurial environment possible for you.

Goals of the Innovator Curriculum:

Scholars accomplish this mission by:

Empowering local people to recognize the power of their local assets and resources to solve common social challenges.

Creating sustainable, long-lasting solutions to social challenges by partnering with people from different cultures to prototype innovative ideas.

Increasing the local community’s access to goods and services to improve their quality of life.

What does the Innovator Curriculum NOT do?

For these reasons, ThinkImpact will not:

Provide solutions: We don’t come with pre-cooked solutions to problems; we work together with local partners to come up with innovative ideas together. These ideas may not work the first time; they require trial, error, and testing to come up with an effective product or solution.

Provide money: We are not here to pro-vide financial capital to any business or to provide money for attending meetings. We want people who are self-motivated to help the community, not those who want to be given incentives before they will join us. We DO provide access to other NGOs, companies or banks that can help with loans and other training.

Give handouts: We don’t give handouts, build schools, or provide other struc-tural amenities. We are here to work in partnership with local people to create long-lasting solutions to social problems. Handouts are ineffective and often don’t work—we believe we need community involvement to create sustainable solu-tions, and a handout won’t accomplish that.

8

Academic credit is available through Thin-kImpact’s partnership with the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA (www.pacific.edu) for an additional cost. Participants may obtain up to 2 course credits if attending the 3-week Institute or up to 3 course credits if attending the 8-week Institute. ThinkImpact will work with the University of the Pacific to ensure your units are properly recorded and appear on a university transcript. If you desire academic credit for the program, please con-tact your admissions coordinator to arrange payment.

ThinkImpact offers optional excursions for an additional cost. The excursion options are available on our Marketplace. Please click the Marketplace link on your ThinkImpact pre-departure website to see excursion descrip-tions and to make any purchases. Details on the excursions offered in each destination country are available through the ThinkIm-pact website and in your Country Specific Guide. If you would like to attend any of the excursions, purchases must be completed by the end of ThinkImpact University.

To obtain an additional transcript of this class from the University of the Pacific, please con-sult this web site:

http://www.pacific.edu/Admission/Undergraduate/Applying/Requirementsand-Recommendation/Transcripts.html

The course is graded pass/fail.

School of Record

9

Optional Excursions

ROLE OF THINKIMPACT SCHOLARS

Scholar Responsibilities

As a scholar of a ThinkImpact Institute, you will be responsible for certain arrangements to en-sure a smooth start to your program. Your admissions coordinator will share information with you regarding each of these items; however, here are the tasks we expect you to complete

prior to departure:

Arrange your personal travel to the host country. You must arrive in your host city on the program start date. Airport pick-up is arranged for all arrivals that day. More detailed information will be provided in your Country Specific Guide which is sent to you after you have confirmed your participation and made the non-refundable deposit.

Visit a travel clinic to discuss vaccinations and the medical risks associated with travel to your host country.

Make your program payments by the deadlines.

Provide ThinkImpact with your signed legal forms (including the behavior policy, liability waiver and consent to use of likeness).

Submit ThinkImpact pre-departure forms (Includes Scholar Confirmation Form, Health Information Form, and Flight Form).

Read and respond to all communication in a timely manner.

Be a total Rock Star while a scholar on a ThinkImpact Program!

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

10

We believe the Institute is radically differ-ent from traditional study abroad programs and volunteer and internship placements. Scholars are on this path to learn and grow, but Scholars aren’t on the program only for personal benefit. Scholar participation on the Institute is designed to create lasting impact in the communities where you work. As an Institute Scholar, you are a representative of ThinkImpact and your home country. ThinkImpact maintains a Behavior Policy which must be signed and observed by every Institute Scholar. Failure to comply may result in dismissal from the program at your own expense. Please read on for more information on the vital role our behavior policy plays in your success as a ThinkImpact Scholar.

Why does ThinkImpact require students to adhere to the Behavior Policy?

The ThinkImpact Behavior Policy is in place for the safety of our Scholars and the com-munity members who have invited you in to their home. The idea is to immerse yourself in your community peacefully, without inter-ruption of the cultural norms and everyday life of a community member, while you work feverishly towards innovation and change. As this experience is unique, you may be one of only a few contacts that many community members have had with someone of your nationality. Scholar behavior will reflect on ThinkImpact and will inevitably affect how our community partners view foreigners and future ThinkImpact Scholars. Your behavior will also have a direct impact on individual and group safety. Accepted behavior in your home country may not be considered appro-priate in your host community.

Behavior Policy

11

Actions such as drinking alcohol of any kind, taking part in any illegal activity such as use or han-dling of drugs (regardless of their legal status in the United States), sexual activity with commu-nity members, walking alone at night, or failing to notify a staff member of your whereabouts are a few of the safety requirements you must abide by to be a successful ThinkImpact scholar. The actions listed above may set bad examples for community members, could put your own health and safety at risk, and/or may not be considered culturally acceptable which could put you, as a scholar, in an uncomfortable situation with your homestay family.

We also expect professional maturity and responsibility on your part while working and living in the community. We expect Scholars to work hard, avoid making promises to community mem-bers or discussing financial matters. Promising anything from money to infrastructure devel-opment undermines the work of your fellow Scholars and creates distrust among community members.

The success of each institute relies on your willingness to arrive to meetings early (to dem-onstrate your eagerness to work), listen and learn from others (to foster collaboration and in-creased productivity), and above all treat community members, fellow Scholars and ThinkImpact staff members with the same amount of respect and trust you would expect from others. You are about to be welcomed as a very special new member of a unique community- We trust you will be an excellent role model and catalyst for change during the program and beyond!

12

Behavior Policies

As a scholar I will not take any transport not organized by ThinkImpact, except in the case of life threatening emergencies. Unauthorized transportation includes bikes and any form of motorized transportation not organized by or provided by ThinkImpact, including motor-bikes, public vans or taxis, and scooters. I will not accept rides even from trusted members of the community, such as homestay families, unless specifically approved by ThinkImpact.

I understand that I am not allowed to travel farther than my neighbor’s homes during the evenings, except when accompanied by a staff member, or in a case of extreme emergency. I will never leave my homestead alone at night. I understand that no matter how comfort-able I become in the community I am always an outsider.

I will not take part in any illegal activity, including use, purchase, and/or handling of illicit drugs, based on either local, national or United States law, during this program. I realize that some local rituals may include illicit drugs and I will not participate in using any drugs during such activities.

I will not go to the bottle store, bar, or liquor store at any time nor will I consume alcohol while in the community. I understand the challenges that alcohol consumption produces in this community and I intend to be a role model for change.

I will not to travel outside of the community without the consent of the ThinkImpact staff, except in cases of an extreme emergency. I will inform a ThinkImpact staff member of my whereabouts at all times if I plan to part from the larger group, as this can pose safety con-cerns to myself and to the ThinkImpact staff.

I will not physically harm another scholar, staff or community member.

I will not engage in sexual relations with any member of the community. I am aware of the cultural and health risks associated with engaging in sexual intercourse with community members and understand that these actions will affect ThinkImpact’s ability to operate in this community in the future.

I will not engage in sexual relations with any other scholar or staff member while staying in the community. I will not spend the night in another scholar’s homestay unless arranged by ThinkImpact staff for logistical purposes.

For a complete list of the ThinkImpact Behavior Policies and Expectations, please see below.

13

Expectations

I will never make promises to the community and its members.

I will not mention bringing money or providing capital. I am here to catalyze change through the innovation process.

I will keep my fellow scholars and ThinkImpact staff informed about my health (mental, physical and emotional) throughout the Institute.

I will arrive to meetings on time, with a special effort at being five minutes early. I realize my timeliness might cause me to wait for some meetings, but I will be patient and set a good example.

I will listen and learn from others, including community members, Scholars and the country team.

I agree to work hard throughout the Institute, keep an open mind and inspire change through action. I understand that negativity is infectious and unproductive. I will be a posi-tive force for growth.

14

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL PLANNING

Passport Information

If you do not currently have a passport, STOP. You need to apply for one ASAP. Visit the U.S. Department of State or your home country corresponding website today to submit your application.

Visa Information

U.S. citizens typically do not need to apply for a visa in advance of arrival in the Institute country as tourist visas are issued upon arrival. These requirements vary dependent on Insti-tute length and destination. Country specific requirements can be found below and also in your Specific Country Guide. However, if you are a non-U.S. citizen please check your en-trance requirements for your destination coun-try immediately. You may need to apply for a visa in advance depending on your nationality. We highly recommend using Atlas Visa Services should you like assistance in obtaining your visa as a non-U.S. citizen: http://www.atlasvisa.com/. Please keep in mind it can take up to 3 months to obtain a visa for a non-US citizen. Early planning is highly recommended for non-U.S. citizens.

Department of State Passport Information:

http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/passports/new.html

15

Visa Requirements for U.S. citizens in Panama: U.S. citizens may obtain a tourist visa upon arrival if they plan to be in Panama for less than 180 days. If you are studying abroad after the Institute, please plan accordingly. Passport must be valid for 3 months past the time of entry into the country.

Visa Requirements for U.S. citizens in Rwanda:U.S. citizens may obtain a tourist visa upon arrival if they plan to be in Rwanda for less than 30 days. There will be a charge of $30. U.S. citizens participating on the 8 week Institute will need to apply for the African Tourist visa online. The East African tourist visa is valid for 90 days and includes multiple entries to other East African countries (Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya). The cost is 100 USD. If you are studying abroad after the Institute, please plan accordingly. Passport must be valid for 6 months past the time of entry into the country.

Visa Requirements for U.S. citizens in South Africa:U.S. citizens may obtain a tourist visa upon arrival if they plan to be in South Africa for less than 90 days. You will need to make sure that you have TWO complete pages empty in your pass-port for South Africa entry stamps. If you are studying abroad after the Institute, please plan accordingly. Passport must be valid for at least 30 days after date of departure from South Africa.

16

Be sure to locate the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to the community to which you will be traveling. Your country specific guide will provide you with this information, but it is always a good idea for you and your family to be aware of how to find this information.

You can locate the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your host country by clicking here: http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html.

If you are a non-U.S. citizen, please contact your local embassy to find your embassy in your host country.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

(STEP)

We recommend that all ThinkImpact Schol-ars (only offered for U.S citizens) sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). By signing up for the STEP program

offered through the U.S Department of State, Scholars notify the U.S. government where they will be traveling and for how long. The program will send you current information on the country to which you are traveling and keep you informed of any travel alerts or travel warnings. It will keep you connected in the case of an emergency, natural disaster, or governmental unrest and the program can also notify you should an emergency happen at home and your family is having a hard time getting a hold of you.

Keep in mind a travel alert is different than a travel warning. A travel alert keeps you updated on current events that may af-fect your travel such as elections, strikes, or health alerts. These are short term alerts and can be reviewed as you plan your travel. A travel warning from the U.S. Department of State warns travelers against traveling to the country at all due to violence, war, or terror-ist activity. ThinkImpact will always keep you informed of any travel alerts or warnings for your destination country.

Embassies and Consulates

More information on the STEP program and how you sign-up can be found here:

http://travel.state.gov/content/pass-ports/english/go/step.html

17

Arranging Flights

Scholars are responsible for booking their own international travel and getting to your ThinkImpact University (TIU) designated airport in your host country by the program start date. ThinkImpact is partnered with Fly For Good, which allows ThinkImpact Schol-ars to receive discounted humanitarian flight fares through their website. If you are raising funds on Empowered.org you can apply your extra funds raised towards your flight with Fly For Good. Detailed information on booking travel to and from your host country can be found in your Specific Country Guide.

ThinkImpact will provide transport to the TIU site location from the designated arrival air-port on the program start day only. If Schol-ars choose to arrive early they will be respon-sible for arranging their own transportation and ThinkImpact can provide recommenda-tions for hotels. Participants may also arrange their own travel from the airport to the TIU location but should notify their admissions coordinator before doing so.

Arriving Late/Leaving Early

Every day on a ThinkImpact program is pre-cious. ThinkImpact very rarely makes ex-ceptions for Scholars to arrive late or leave early. A lot of the work is completed in teams and this disrupts the flow of the experience. When someone arrives late or leaves early from the program it can be at the expense of the team of Scholars and community mem-bers in a given community.

Baggage and Packing

You will receive a detailed packing list spe-cific to the country to which you are traveling included in your Country Specific Guide. As a general rule, *PACK LIGHT AND DO NOT BRING ANY LUGGAGE YOU CAN’T CARRY. We recommend a large hiking backpack or duffle bag. Anything with wheels will be dif-ficult. Remember to always pack valuable items in your carry-on luggage.

18

What to Pack in Carry-On Luggage

All participants must pack a photocopy of the photo page of your passport (X2), Immunization records (Yellow book), personal medications, and your Student ID or Drivers License in your carry-on luggage. An extra pair of underwear and socks or a change of clothes is helpful in case of any flight delays or arriving later than expected. All valuables must be packed in your carry-on lug-gage. Snacks are nice to have on longer flights-however you’ll want to be sure to eat them on the plane as it is not likely you will be able to bring them through customs.

Helpful Packing Tips

Pack light. Try to pack your bags two weeks early. One week before departure, go through your bag again and pull out anything that you may have reconsidered taking. This will help reduce the amount of items you plan to take.

Check your airline’s baggage restrictions before packing and be sure to adhere to all requirements. Failure to do so could result in extra costs.

Consider carrying a neck or waist belt passport holder for the safety and security of your passport.

Make copies of everything (passport, prescription medications, driver’s license, credit cards/bank cards, insurance card), take copies with you in your carry-on, and leave extra copies at home.

Take all valuables, identification information and prescription medication in your carry-on luggage.

Please avoid bringing too many valuables in general. The packing lists in your Country Specific guide outline everything you should need. Bringing too many fancy electronics, jewelry or other high priced items can draw unwanted attention. Remember that you are on the program to make an impact, not to show off your equipment.

You will not need a computer but it is more than okay to pack a laptop, tablet or camera. Take care of your belongings and keep electronics hidden away in your bags when not in use. ThinkImpact will not be held responsible for any lost, stolen or damaged items.

Hairdryers, hair straighteners, curling irons, electric razors, etc. are unnecessary and may use too much power for the community. Please leave these items at home.

Take an extra outfit or two in your carry-on luggage in case of a flight delay.

Use easy to carry luggage such as duffle bags or backpacks for packing- anything with wheels will be difficult to maneuver in the communities.

Take clothes you don’t mind getting dirty or ruined and keep in mind that all clothes will be hand washed throughout the Institute so bring items that will dry quickly and that are not delicate. Do not bring many white or light colored clothes, as they will likely get dirty.

We highly discourage you from wearing contact lenses in the communities. There is a lot of dust and dirt in the communities and you will be very uncomfortable. Bring your prescription lenses for the program.

Be respectful of the culture and pack modest clothing.

Bring comfortable walking shoes-you’ll be doing lots of it!

19

Immigration, Customs and Declarations

Upon entering the country, Scholars will need to clear immigration and customs. Immigration officials will check to be sure passports are valid, will usually ask your purpose for entering the country and will stamp each passport with the appropriate stamp and/or visa depending on each country’s requirements. Once you have received the appropriate stamp and been cleared to legally enter the country, you will need to clear customs. Customs’ officials will check bag-gage to be sure you are not bringing anything illegal in to the country. Typically, you will be asked by flight attendants to complete a customs form before exiting the airplane. The cus-toms officials will ask for this form before checking your bag. Bags may be manually searched or run through an x-ray machine.

Jet Lag

Jet lag can have a very serious affect on your first few days in a new time zone. It is important that you are feeling as best as you can during the ThinkImpact University pre-Institute training. Dehydration, low levels of vitamin D and sleep deprivation are all significant factors in experi-encing severe jet lag.

The following are a few good ways to avoid serious jetlag:Before you board the plane, set your watch to the time zone to which you are travelling. This will help you mentally prepare for the time shift.Drink lots of water and avoid alcohol on the flight over and upon arrival.Avoid napping on your first day in your host country. Try to stay awake until the evening of your first night there. This will help your body adjust to the new time zone.Take in lots of fresh air and sunlight on the first day. Staying outdoors as much as possible will provide vitamin D your body may be lacking and the fresh air will feel great after long hours on an airplane!

•

••

•

Travel ResourcesIf you plan to travel before or after the Insti-tute, your Country Specific Guide will provide location specific resources for you. Other great resources are:

Lonely Planet- www.lonelyplanet.comFrommer’s- www.frommers.comTripAdvisor- www.tripadvisor.com

20

Community Immersion

The communities that work with ThinkImpact Scholars have been chosen as suitable for our participants because of their desire to seek and implement change while fostering a safe and supportive environment for our Schol-ars. Community committees and homestay families have been carefully selected to be the Scholars’ best resources and advocates while staying in the communities. Communi-ties, large or small, urban or rural, young and old, thrive on support and solidarity among its members in order to sustain themselves. ThinkImpact expects you to dive deep in to the community in which you are living. You will become a member of this community for a short time and thus will take on the same role of support and solidarity for the com-munity members as you should expect from them. Ask good questions, listen carefully, and keep an open mind. You’ll learn so much for it.

Cultural Adjustment

Immersing yourself in a new community comes with its own set of challenges; new environ-ment, food, transportation, accommodations, language, and way of looking at the world. At home, we may not think about the little things we do in our own routines. Each action and re-action we make reflects what we learned from our childhood, our family, our surroundings, the media, and our peers. Your knowledge of how to react to each situation you encounter is generally something you learned, even if it just seems to be second nature. When visiting a new community and culture, our Scholars are bound to find themselves unsure of how to act or react in any given situation because the ap-propriate action or reaction may not be some-thing you have learned before, or practiced in your own community. All of these changes may affect each person differently, but no less each Scholar may expect a certain level of cul-ture shock while on the program. Culture shock is a normal part of adjusting to a new commu-nity. It means you are noticing the differences! Take it as a good sign that you are on the right track.

COMMUNITY IMMERSION AND LIFE ABROAD

21

Culture shock can present itself in a few dif-ferent ways, but usually occurs in the fol-lowing order. Within the first few days, there is a general feeling of euphoria- excitement about your new home and environment. Things are new and it may feel exhilarat-ing and refreshing to be living a completely new life. After the realities of life settle in and you begin to feel the normalcy of a routine, you may start to feel irritable, homesick and down. You may even feel the need to criticize the community norms or members for things they do that are “different”. This just means you are getting a bit exhausted from learning a new way of life. It is normal to feel that way.

If you start to feel any of these symptoms of culture shock, please share it with ThinkIm-pact staff. The ThinkImpact staff members know exactly what you may be feeling and have probably been there themselves. No doubt your fellow Scholars may be feeling the same way and just need an ear to listen. Try to avoid getting too down on yourself, the community or your fellow Scholars. Try to recognize the problem and work through it. Often an ear to listen, some fresh air and exercise can do wonders. So grab a fellow Scholar or staff member and go for a walk together to clear the air. We bet you’ll feel much better! If for any reason after a day or so you aren’t feeling any better, please talk with a staff member. We are here to support you through all phases of your learning.

Culture Shock

22

Homestays are one of your best opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of local culture, daily life, and family structures. ThinkImpact has set up an infrastructure that carefully vets and recruits peer-selected host families who are excited to welcome you into their home for the duration of the Institute.

Scholars will almost always be placed in a homestay family with another ThinkImpact Scholar of the same gender. The two Scholars will share a bedroom for the comfort and safety of each scholar. Locks are provided on all bedroom doors. In some cases, Scholars may share a bed with another scholar of their own gender. This is typical of life in the communities and is an-other form of shared austerity that Scholars experience on the ThinkImpact program.

Scholars do not need to bring any bedding for their homestays, although it is recommended to bring a pillow. Additional sheets or sleeping bags may also be packed to enhance comfort. In areas where malaria may be prevalent, mosquito netting is provided for all accommodations.

In most cases there will not be electricity or running water in homestays but bottled or filtered water is provided for Scholars, as well as water-purifying tablets, water guard or solution for homestay cooking and cleaning purposes. Homestays provide all water needed for cooking and bathing, allowing for shared cultural experiences that revolve around collecting water, cooking, cleaning and other household activities.

Most homestays have a functional pit latrine or outhouse while some may have an indoor toilet more similar to what Scholars are used to back home. ThinkImpact provides toilet paper for all Scholars. Showering can vary from bucket bathing to a running shower. Where running water is not available, showering is done in a private outdoor shower using a bucket or inside a designated room within a homestay. While these routines may feel foreign at first they quickly become a part of everyone’s daily routine.

Homestay families are trained on ThinkImpact’s program model and understand our zero tolerance behavioral policy that ThinkImpact has established in each community. Participants should feel completely safe in their host family setting. If for any reason participants ever feel unsafe or threatened in their host family home, the Scholar will be immediately removed from the home and placed with a new family. In the case of an emergency while staying with a homestay family, we provide dedicated ThinkImpact vehicle transportation to the closest medical facility.

The goal of placing Scholars with homestay families is to build bonds with a family that will contribute to your community immersion and cultural learning. We hold our Scholars equally responsible for their role in community safety. ThinkImpact participants must adhere to the homestay family norms and behaviors, act accordingly, and treat their homestay family with the utmost respect. Please refer to the Behavior Policy for any questions on what is/is not per-mitted while living in the communities.

Homestay Families & Accommodations

23

DO: Always remember the Golden Rule / DON’T: Forget you are a guest

Be respectful and always treat people the way you would want to be treated if you were host-ing someone in your home. Also pay attention to how your actions and demeanor impact other members of the family or house guests and strive to model culturally appropriate behav-ior at all times.

DO: Ask questions / DON’T: make assumptions

Always ask when you are unsure about something. In order to follow house norms you have to know what they are. Despite the language barrier, simple questions will provide you with the information you need. Be proactive and cheerful with your questions and needs. Here are a few questions you should consider asking in your first couple of days:

• How do I bathe? How much water can I use?• Where is the toilet/latrine?• Where do I wash my hands?• What time does the family get up in the morning?• What time do most family members go to bed? When should we be very quiet?• May I have guests come over?• When can I use the kitchen?• Can I help cook?• Where and how do I wash my clothes?

DO: Embrace the experience / DON’T: Close yourself off to opportunities

Make an effort to fully immerse yourself in your host family and spend a few extra minutes each day committed to learning something about the local culture. Family members may be shy and introverted which can create some awkward silences and uncomfortable situations. Use patience and make the extra effort every day.

DO: When in doubt, laugh! / DON’T: Take yourself too seriously

Always remember to laugh at your mistakes. No one expects you to know how to live like the locals. Nothing breaks down cultural barriers like a mutual giggle-fest.

DO: Help out / DON’T: Think you are above anything

Offer assistance with household chores as much as possible. This is a great way to learn about the local culture. Understanding how your family cooks, cleans, collects water and washes clothes is all part of the homestay experience. Be sure to keep your room tidy and clean up after yourself or your guests.

Homestay Do’s and Dont’s

It is important to keep these guidelines in mind during the first days you arrive and throughout your stay with your new friends and family.

24

DO: Show your appreciation / DON’T: Complain

Express appreciation for your host family’s hospitality as often as possible. Smile and say thank you regularly. It is a privilege for you to have the opportunity to stay in their home, so make sure they know you feel that way. That being said, there is no need to pay them back monetari-ly; ThinkImpact takes care of homestay payments.

DO: Chill out / DON’T: Invite burn out

Traveling abroad and being in a new environment is very exciting and generally a high-energy experience. Take time out to relax in your homestay and never expect your family to entertain you. Chill out and observe the daily rhythms of your homestay family and local community. Centering yourself can be extremely beneficial in terms of succeeding on the Institute.

DO: Know When to Say “No” / DON’T: Sacrifice personal health and values

It is always okay to refuse something that is offered to you. If you are a vegetarian you do not have to eat meat when it is offered to you. If you are asked to attend a religious service that makes you uncomfortable, it’s okay to say “no.” Don’t be afraid to be honest but respectful with your homestay family when it comes to your personal health and value system.

DO: Bring a Gift / DON’T: Give out money

Bring a culturally appropriate gift for your host family. This can be a good way to break the ice upon your arrival or may be saved as a thank you present before your departure. T-shirts, books, art supplies, calendars or games are fun ideas but please refrain from giving anything too large or over the top. TVs or computers, for example, would not be permitted.

25

Cell PhonesAll ThinkImpact Scholars are provided cell phones for the duration of the Institute. Airtime/minutes are not included on these phones and Scholars will need to purchase their own airtime in country to make local and international calls or texts. Cell phones are common in the communities, and they are important for communicating with com-munity partners and fellow Scholars and the ThinkImpact staff. ThinkImpact encourages Scholars to use cell phones sparingly when communicating with friends and family back home. Scholars who are most successful on the Institute are those who are able to be present and open themselves up to the op-portunities that arise every moment in the communities. More detailed information on how to purchase cell phone minutes and internet availability per location can be found in your Country Specific Guide.

InternetInternet/wi-fi connections are not usually available for participants in remote com-munities but this is a great way to enhance your community immersion-less screen time and more face time (the old fashioned way to “Facetime”). Computers and Internet are not part of daily life for local residents in these communities. If there is a local Internet connection, it is not reliable and often is not functioning for days at a time. Email access will only be available in the major cities or possibly on excursion.

The ThinkImpact Country Staff will be equipped with Internet so that they can maintain correspondence with ThinkImpact Headquarters in Denver and post regular up-dates to the ThinkImpact blog.

SkypeSkype is discouraged during the program as it is believed by ThinkImpact to contribute to homesickness and detract from community immersion.

Weekly Updates from ThinkImpact ThinkImpact will send weekly updates from ThinkImpact Headquarters to all parents and friends who opt-in. Your admissions coordi-nator will provide more information on how to opt-in to weekly updates. Make sure to give us the names and emails of friends and family you want to receive updates from the field during your program.

Communication in Case of EmergencyIn the case of a family emergency or other emergency here in the US, families are en-couraged to contact ThinkImpact headquar-ters immediately and we will be in communi-cation directly with Scholars in country ASAP.

MailPlease note that friends and family will not be able to mail you letters or packages dur-ing the Institute. Homestays do not have traditional mailing addresses and it takes staff time and resources to collect such mail. Only in case of medical emergency will the Thin-kImpact team arrange to have something delivered to you in the community.

Communication

26

Transportation in Destination Country

Public Transportation and DrivingIt is ThinkImpact policy that Scholars are never to take public transportation on their own, in-cluding getting a ride from a host family or community member or drive any vehicle for the du-ration of the Institute. This policy is designed for safety and to maximize shared austerity when living in the communities. ThinkImpact may arrange for transfers to neighboring communities and market places, but Scholars’ main mode of transportation will be their own two feet.

Bicycles, Motorbikes and Motorcycles Bicycles, motorbikes and motorcycles are not permitted for the duration of the Institute. The roads are extremely hazardous for biking and there is little to no access to helmets in the com-munities.

27

Program fees for your specific Institute are available through the ThinkImpact website. Pay-ment details, inclusions, exclusions and our cancellation policy are listed below. Fundraising information and general advice for banking abroad can also be found in this section.

Payment Details

The final deadline to pay program fees is six weeks prior to the institute start date.

You will be sent an invoice once you are accepted to the program. If final payment is not post-marked by six weeks prior to the program start date, scholars must pay via card online.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

We encourage selected students to send payments via check made out to “ThinkImpact.” Checks can be mailed to ThinkImpact Company, 50 South Steele Street #328, Denver CO 80209. We can also process a credit card payment through PayPal, but we will have to charge a processing fee for these transactions. Contact Dita Wohlauer at dita@thinkimpact.com or 303-377-3776 to learn more about your payment options.

28

• Pre-Departure preparation • International health insurance through ACE to include medical evacuation and repatriation• Cell phone for use in-country• Airport pickup on the Institute program start date• ThinkImpact University (TIU) in country orientation and training• In-country travel (transfer to/from rural communities and within communities)• Cultural and educational site visits during TIU• Breakfast, lunch, dinner throughout the Institute• Clean drinking water throughout the Institute• All accommodations and appropriate bedding (pillows may not be included)• ThinkImpact Innovator curriculum (includes print & mobile app version) and a supplemental reader• Intensive leadership development• Mosquito Nets (if in Malaria zones), Toilet Paper, laundry detergent, and other household supplies• One ThinkImpact staff member living in the community per each group of eight to ten Scholars• Residential ThinkImpact staff available 24/7 for Scholar support • Country/region specific language lessons• Community translators for the duration of the program• Weekly newsletter and blog with pictures, video and thoughts from the Institute to be sent to friends and family while Scholars are abroad• Post-Institute support and Alumni network opportunities

Program Fee Inclusions

Program Fee Exclusions

• International air travel and any airline change fees • Tourist Visa fees- Visa fee information will be provided in your Specific Country Guide.• Personal medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and vaccinations for the duration of the Institute- Be sure to visit www.cdc.org for more information on specific vaccinations related to travel to your host country• Personal spending in country- An estimated personal spending amount will be provided in your Specific Country Guide and you may request this at any time from your admissions coordinator• Optional excursions offered -You may choose to join the group for a number of optional excur-sions. Depending on the length of your Institute, options may include overnight excursions and a two-night excursion. This is a great way to incorporate additional attractions into your itinerary and make the most of your time abroad. You’ll stay overnight in a hotel or guest house, and enjoy free time. Excursions are optional and are not included in the program fee. We encourage you to book your excursion prior to leaving for the program.

29

We have great news for you- we can help you learn how to raise money!

We know that travel can be expensive but ThinkImpact has set up a fundraising platform to help facilitate your plans to get friends and family involved in sponsoring your upcoming life-changing experience! Your admissions coordinator will provide a guidance session on how to leverage your personal assets to reach your goals. The session will include topics such as setting obtainable goals, tell-ing your story, maximizing results, network-ing, social media outreach, incentivizing and more.

It’s quick and easy to set up and user friendly for anyone who would like to donate to your journey. Your admissions coordinator will send you the information necessary to cre-ate an account. Once you have created an account, you will be able to personalize your fundraising page to collect donations. Your account will allow you to share your personal fundraising page with friends and family via Facebook, email, and Twitter.

To be successful in achieving your fund-raising goals - early planning is the key.

Baggage and Packi

Empowered.Org Travel Fundraising

30

General Applicants Cancellation/Refund Policy for ThinkImpact Institutes

Please note: ALL cancellations must be accompanied by written notice and become effective on the date received and acknowledged by ThinkImpact.

A $500 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your participation on the Institute. The non-refundable deposit must be paid within two weeks of acceptance and will be applied to the total cost of the Institute. The balance of the Institute fee must be paid on or before six (6) weeks prior to the start of the Institute. Should an application be withdrawn for any reason, a $75 processing fee will be withheld provided such written cancellation is received after six (6) weeks prior to the start of the Institute and the following additional cancellation fee schedule applies:

Time of Cancellation

21 to 42 days prior to the start of the Institute

7 to 20 days prior to the start of the Institute

1 to 6 days prior to the start of the Institute

After the start of the Institute

Multiple-Week Institute

Cancellation Fee

• $500 Cancellation Penalty• $500 Non-refundable deposit• $75 Processing fee

• $1,000 Cancellation Penalty • $500 Non-refundable deposit • $75 Processing fee

• $1,500 Cancellation Penalty • $500 Non-refundable deposit • $75 Processing fee

• No refund is given

31

Time of Cancellation

21 to 42 days prior to the start of the Institute

7 to 20 days prior to the start of the Institute

1 to 6 days prior to the start of the Institute

After the start of the Institute

Eight (8) Day Institute

Cancellation Fee

• $500 Cancellation Penalty• $500 Non-refundable deposit• $75 Processing fee

• $800 Cancellation Penalty • $500 Non-refundable deposit • $75 Processing fee

• $1,000 Cancellation Penalty • $500 Non-refundable deposit • $75 Processing fee

The Scholars using Empowered to fundraise for their Institute fee shall follow the same policy as listed above. Since the money raised goes directly to ThinkImpact, ThinkImpact will reim-burse the scholar, after deducting the appropriate cancellation fees from Empowered. The scholar is responsible for returning the money to the donors.

32

Roll Over Policy for ThinkImpact Institutes

Should an applicant wish to roll over their application to a different Institute, after submit-ting final payment, the cancellation policy still applies. The balance of the Institute fee paid to ThinkImpact after cancellation deductions will be rolled over toward the Institute fee for the next Institute enrolled. The student is still required to pay a deposit for the Institute to secure a seat, in addition to the remaining Institute fee for the Institute. The roll over only applies to the Institute selected. If a scholar decides not to go on the second selected Institute, the funds paid cannot be rolled over to any other Institutes. Refunds will not be granted for a seat that was originally going to be rolled over and not attended.

For example: A student cancels 5 days prior to departure, they forfeit the deposit, the pro-cessing fee and cancellation fees $500, $75 and $1500. The remaining balance will roll over towards the Institute fee for the next Institute selected. The student must pay another non-refundable deposit in addition to the remaining balance for the next Institute. If the student decides not to attend the next Institute, the remaining balance is not returned to the student and the funds cannot be applied towards any other Institutes.

Refunds are issued via check to the scholar and mailed to the permanent address we have on record or to the Home University if a Direct Bill Agreement is in effect.

33

Your Country Specific Guide will provide details about local currency, budgeting abroad and specific money matters in your host country, but keep these items in mind as you prepare.

Local Currency

Check the local currency, exchange rate and general cost of living for your host country now. A good website for checking on this is www.xe.com. The local currency exchange rate for your destination may fluctuate before you embark on your journey (it can change daily), so make sure to double check before you depart. Typically, Scholars can obtain local currency before departure with advance notice from your local bank although it is also possible to take out or exchange money once in country.

Cash, Bank Cards and Credit Cards

You should be prepared to enter the communities with the cash that you will have for the du-ration of the program. There won’t always be opportunities to access ATMs during the Insti-tute after ThinkImpact University. ThinkImpact recommends that you bring cash that you can exchange upon arrival (larger bills such as $50s and $100s normally get better exchange rates), or bring a debit card/VISA card and take out money from an ATM in your arrival city before entering the community. We also strongly recommend bringing a credit card in case of emer-gency (American Express and MasterCard are not accepted as widely as VISA).

Make sure to notify your bank and credit card company that you will be leaving the country. Check to be sure your card will work in your host country and keep your bank’s international calling code on hand. Let your bank know how long you plan to be in your host country and be sure to notify them of the day you will be returning to the U.S. Often banks or credit card companies can give you tips for minimizing your international transaction charges. Make cop-ies of all bank cards or credit cards (front and back) in case of loss or theft and carry with you in your carry-on luggage. All bank, credit and/or debit cards should be kept close to you at all times and should never be packed in your checked luggage. It is best to carry these items along with your passport in a money wallet or belt.

Traveler’s Checks

Travelers checks are not as widely used as they used to be and will not be useful in the com-munities- but they can be purchased and brought with you in case of emergency or travel delay while in the larger cities. These can be used to supplement your bank or credit card, but should not be used to replace them. American Express or Visa are trusted Traveler’s Check resources.

BANKING ABROAD

34

The highest priority of ThinkImpact is to ensure the health, safety and well-being of the partici-pants on all Institutes. Throughout the ThinkImpact experience our U.S.-based staff and coun-try teams work to ensure all Scholars have a successful experience abroad. Our pre-departure advice and guidance, this pre-departure handbook, as well as our country specific guides and ThinkImpact University orientation programs, highlight health and safety considerations all Scholars should be aware of and will provide participants with resources to tap into through-out their time abroad.

ThinkImpact also enforces specific behavioral policies (found on page 11 of this handbook) that we ask all Scholars to sign and adhere to throughout your participation on Institute programs. Experience has demonstrated that these policies are core to ThinkImpact’s philosophy, values and mission as a company. They assure that our Scholars are respectful of the culture, are true to the developmental vision of the program and keep our participants safe and healthy in unfa-miliar surroundings.

Each region where we work has a “community committee” comprised of vetted and hand selected community members who are volunteers and liaisons for our Scholars and staff throughout the Institute. They are an integral part of our operational strategy and provide heightened safety throughout the course of the Institute. The community committees make sure every homestay family, translator and design team partner is carefully selected and has a good record within the community.

Still, unforeseen emergency events and medical needs can impact our Scholars. When this happens we have protocol in place to respond to emergency events regardless of the location or nature of the situation.

ThinkImpact country teams are prepared with the policies, procedures and resources neces-sary to serve the health and safety needs of each of our participants. These protocols are guid-ed by and seek to adhere to the Forum for Education Abroad Standards of Good Practice. Our staff monitor political, social and economic conditions in the regions where we work. ThinkIm-pact educates and prepares participants for travel through conference calls, webinars, emails, and pre-departure informational mailings, and prior to departure Scholars receive health and safety information about the Institute through their Country Specific Guide. Additionally, we ask that every U.S. participant sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the Department of State in the rare case of natural disaster, political unrest, terrorism or any other national concern. Citizens from other countries should verify similar services provided by their home country foreign ministry.

ThinkImpact, however, is not liable for any illnesses or injuries sustained during the course of the Institute. Scholars will sign the “Behavior Policy,” that signifies that they understand Thin-kImpact’s policies for operating in the communities. Scholars are responsible for receiving the recommended vaccinations and medications before their departure. Please visit a doctor or travel clinic before participation and also visit the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website, at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel for more country specific health and safety information.

ThinkImpact Commitment to Health and Well-being of Scholars

HEALTH & SAFETY ABROAD

35

What Constitutes an Emergency?

An emergency is a situation where the health, safety and/or well-being of a participant or staff member are in jeopardy. The following is a list of examples of emergency situations:

• Incident/Accident/Illness: Participant or staff member requiring more than routine medical care. • Crimes/Arrests: Crimes committed by or against a participant, including physical and sexual assault, drug and alcohol related incidents. • Psychological Emergencies: Suicide threats and attempts, serious eating disorders, erratic or threatening behavior due to mental health related conditions. • Death: Participant or staff member • Natural Disaster, Terrorism, Fire, Flood or Other Incident: Within the city, region or country of the program requiring special assistance or relocation. • Evacuation: Natural Disaster/Terrorism/War/Political Emergency. • Pandemic: A global disease outbreak

Emergency Response

ThinkImpact country teams works in close concert with the Director of Global Operations to manage the situation on site. Headquarters staff will provide assistance with serious incidents and is responsible for keeping the university/organizational partner and the Scholar’s emergen-cy contact informed through timely and clear communications. With a well-defined frame-work to guide the process, our staff make decisions and manage the response for each partici-

pant emergency, natural disaster or political crisis regardless of what and where it occurs.

36

ThinkImpact Denver Office (9:00-6:00 p.m. Mountain Standard TimeMonday-Friday)

Dana Ward, Admissions and Advising Coordina-tor (to be contacted after hours noted above)

U.S. EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Calling from abroad: 001 303 377 3776Calling from the U.S.: 1 303 377 3776

Calling from abroad: 001 847 915 5227Calling from the U.S.: 1 847 915 5227

Staying Healthy Abroad

Scholars will receive a comprehensive training during TIU on how to take charge of your health while abroad. However, there are many ways that you can play a big part in maintain-ing good health while abroad. To ensure that Scholars stay healthy throughout the program, we ask Scholars to take initial responsibility in this by visiting a Health Clinic or personal physi-cian before departing for your host country. Simply tell them that you will be traveling to rural communities in your host country for several weeks. The Doctor or Nurse Practitioner will give you a list of recommended and required vaccinations. ThinkImpact does not provide any medical consultation. Please consult your doctor for further direction if you need clarification on their recommendations. You can visit the Center for Disease Control for up to date health information for your destination country at www.cdc.org.

37

24 Hour Services

ThinkImpact staff are on-call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In the event of an emergency, at home or abroad during the course of the Institute please contact ThinkImpact staff immedi-ately. U.S. based staff emergency numbers are listed below. All ThinkImpact staff will have cell phones and their mobile contact information will be included in the Country Specific Guide and will also be distributed during ThinkImpact University (TIU). Please print the contacts be-low, leave a copy with your family, and take a copy with you to the Institute for your reference.

As you prepare for your journey, please also keep the following health and safety concerns/considerations in mind:

Alcohol: Overconsumption of alcohol presents challenges among participants and community members that can put your health and safety at risk. Be a role model for others by avoiding alco-hol in communities and only drinking in moderation while in the cities or on excursion.

Animals: Animals of all kinds are found in the communities in which we work. You should recog-nize that many animals, especially dogs, are not properly cared for by U.S. standards. Do not pet, feed, or play with animals in the communities.

Crime: While there are notably high crime rates in the major cities of the destination countries, crime rates tend to be much lower in the rural areas where Scholars live and work. The communi-ties are small and nearly everyone knows each other, making community members accountable to one another. Violent crime within the communities towards our Scholars has never been re-ported. We do not place participants in communities with any record of risk for foreigners. While we are in cities we travel in groups and stay in ThinkImpact approved accommodations that are safe. We continue to take every precaution against random crime.

Diarrhea: Diarrhea is common while traveling, especially in a foreign environment. If you experi-ence any serious issues, be sure to inform the staff and stay hydrated. Try to maintain a light, bland diet, avoid caffeine, fruit juice and greasy foods should this occur.

Drugs: Drugs, including marijuana, are not legal in any of the ThinkImpact destination countries. Do not accept any medication from anyone who is not from the ThinkImpact team or an autho-rized medical practitioner. Please refer to the following link directing you to the U.S. Departments of State’s message on drugs abroad: http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/drugs.html

HIV and AIDS: Do not practice high-risk behavior. HIV is a high risk in destination countries.

Malaria Risks: The decision to take preventative medication for malaria while abroad is entirely up to you and should be made in consultation with your doctor. Please visit the Center for Disease Control website for specific malaria risks in your destination country: www.cdc.org

Personal Safety and/or Sexual Assault Concerns: The Institute is set up to ensure that no Scholar feels alone outside of the private homestay quarters. Safety precautions are emphasized daily, a staff member responds to concerns immediately, and emergency contacts are distributed before the trip departs. Scholars are not allowed to leave the homestay compound after dark. This time is typically spent with your homestay family preparing and cooking dinner, playing with children, reading or just hanging out in front of your house under the stars. Lighting in these com-munities can be minimal at best, and safety precautions are harder to control during the evening. Sexual assault and personal safety for both males and females on the trips is an important con-cern and though we do not anticipate any such emergencies we will provide participants neces-sary information for you to protect yourself and steps to take should any problems arise. While females do experience a different kind of attention from men in the communities, this is very rarely concerning attention and is simply an adjustment culturally during the first couple days of the program.

38

Female AND male Scholars are instructed to always communicate with a staff member if a com-munity member makes you feel uncomfortable. ThinkImpact will not hesitate to move partici-pant homestays if someone does not feel comfortable in their new environment. If a homestay is moved our Country Coordinator will help facilitate that transition, knowing culturally appropriate next steps.

Raw vegetables and fruits: Do not eat fruits and vegetables with skins; everything must be peeled. Do not eat raw vegetables, only eat vegetables that have been properly cleaned and cooked.

Water: The water used by homestay families is generally safe to drink and you should have no concerns about brushing your teeth or bathing. However, ThinkImpact will provide you with drinking water to ensure that you always have plenty of clean water and are staying hydrated. De-spite water that may sometimes taste a little funny, know that the water ThinkImpact provides is always clean and safe, and that it is vital that you stay hydrated at all times. Avoid stepping in still or stagnant water because it is an incubator for many kinds of bacteria and parasites. Often times, stagnant water is contaminated with human and animal feces, particularly in deserts or other ar-eas of low rain.

Participants with Special Health or Medical Needs

If you have any special health or medical needs, including but not limited to pre-existing condi-tions, mental health illness or physical disabilities, please notify your admissions coordinator immediately. There are steps that will need to be taken to ensure Scholars have the necessary sup-port needed in traveling abroad.

Prescription Medications

If you are currently taking prescription medication, be sure to continue with your normal medica-tions while abroad if possible. Please discuss your travel with your primary practitioner to be sure you are best prepared for handling your health condition while abroad. Changing or neglecting to take any regular medications during your travel can present challenges in adjusting to your new home.

In most cases, travelers may bring up to 3 months worth of their prescription medications through customs. Please bring an adequate supply for your time abroad as discussed with your primary practitioner. All medications must be carried in their original containers and it is advisable to bring copies of your prescription with you to provide to a customs official if questioned.

There are some medications that are illegal in other countries that may be legal in your home country. Please check with the embassy of your host country to find out whether your medication can be legally carried through customs. Details on how to contact your host country embassy can be located on page 17 under ‘Embassies and Consulates”. If your medication is not legal in the host country, please consult ACE Insurance and your primary practitioner to discuss alternate options.

Do not plan on mailing any medication abroad or having family mail any to you. Prescription medi-cations will be held in customs and will likely not reach you.

39

Ace Insurance Policy

All participants enrolled in ThinkImpact Institutes are covered by the mandatory ACE TI Group Policy for emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation, repatriation and kidnap/extor-tion during the dates of your program as long as the destination country is not your country of citizenship. This coverage is included in your program fees and students may not opt out the coverage. The plan will cover you throughout your time on the Institute, however it does not cover days that you are in country outside of the Institute dates. If you would like to add addi-tional coverage for travel outside of the Institute dates, please contact ACE Insurance directly.

After participants have made final payment and prior to departure you will receive an ACE ID card with the policy number and information on the card. You will also be given access to the ACE support website with a user name and password. Scholars should access “eServices” through ACE to assist in your advance health planning, including health issues by country and vaccination recommendations. Detailed documentation for Scholars’ specific policy will be provided to you by your admissions coordinator.

Coverage includes:• Medical Expense reimbursement up to $10,000• Medical Evacuation as authorized through insurance provider. • Expenses for a travel companion for injured person up to $5,000 and one-way airfare •Kidnap/Extortion and detention coverage•Repatriation of remains

Coverage does NOT include:• Airline flight changes• Pre-existing conditions requiring medication refills• Preventative medications• Companion return flight if needed

INSURANCE

40

Maintaining Primary Health Insurance Coverage

Participants may not opt out of the ThinkImpact insurance coverage plan, however, ThinkImpact recommends that you maintain your primary health insurance while you are abroad to avoid any gaps in coverage before and after your program. Please check with your primary health insurer to identify any international coverage that might be included.

Loss/Theft of Personal Property

ACE Insurance will assist in obtaining lost or stolen documents while traveling, such as pass-ports and credit cards. However, ACE will not cover the cost in obtaining such documents. For personal property insurance against loss or theft of documents or other valuables, please con-sider purchasing additional insurance. You may check with your primary insurance provider to see if such coverage is included. You can also find reputable insurance companies you may wish to contact listed below. Some examples of big name companies are:

• Betins• Allianz• Travelex• Travel Guard• Travel Insured International

Travel Insurance

ThinkImpact cannot be held responsible for any travel delay or cancellations. Therefore, Thin-kImpact strongly recommends that Scholars purchase travel insurance in the case of unex-pected travel delays or interruptions, baggage theft/loss, etc. Flight insurance can typically be purchased through your airline or travel agency.

41

Resources for Underrepresented Participants Abroad

ThinkImpact believes strongly in providing top resources in international education to all individuals from all backgrounds who wish to be a Scholar on one of our Institutes. Below we have provided contact information for participants with disabilities, participants of diversity, LGTBQ communities and other underrepresented participants in study abroad. Each of these organizations is committed to providing resources that make travel, scholarships, and general support for your needs as accessible as possible.

ACCESSIBLE STUDY ABROAD

Access-Able Travel Sources: http://access-able.com/graphical_index.html

The Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund: http://dredf.org/

Diversity Abroad: http://www.diversityabroad.com/

Mobility International USA: www.miusa.org

NAFSA Rainbow SIG Student Resources: http://www.rainbowsig.org/us-participants-abroad/

Department of State LGBT Travel Info Page: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/lgbt/lgbt_5887.html

Department of State Page on Traveling with Disabilities:http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/disabilities.html

Department of State Page on Women’s travel information:http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/Women.html

42

Changing Flights If you plan to make any changes to your return itinerary home, please keep in mind that airlines and travel agencies have strict flight change fees. Usually travelers are charged a change fee plus any dif-ference in the fare you paid. Please keep this in mind when planning your travel.

Entering the U.S.You’ll have to clear U.S. customs and immigration when you return to the U.S. Be sure to claim any purchases on your customs form, keep purchased items ready to be inspected if asked (and receipts if you have them) and do not bring anything in your baggage that would be considered illegal to bring across borders. This includes but is not limited to meat, fruits and vegetables.

You’ll want to be sure you have U.S. dollars on you and an ATM or credit card ready in case of any delay or changes in your travel home. Keep an extra outfit in your carry-on as well to be prepared for any change in your travel plans.

Reverse Culture ShockThe trip home can be bittersweet. On one hand you are excited to see your family and friends to share your experiences with them, and on the other hand you may be quite sad to leave behind the new family, colleagues and friends you have made in your ThinkImpact community. Cultural adjust-ment won’t end when you step back on the plane home- in many cases, it has only just begun. After the first few exciting days at home reuniting with loved ones, many Scholars find themselves feeling confused, irritable and really missing their host family, host community and the new culture they have become adjusted to. You may also feel as if your loved ones have a short attention span when you try to talk to them about your experience. If this happens to you, don’t worry. You have just par-ticipated in a life-changing journey in innovation, cultural immersion and individual transformation. As much as they might want to try, your loved ones weren’t there with you and won’t be able to fully grasp the depth to which you have learned and grown from this.

Don’t forget that the staff at ThinkImpact is here for you. Feel free to give us a call, shoot us an email or stop by if you are in the area. We’ve been there and understand how difficult it can be to return home after a life changing, high impact journey such as this. We’re happy to chat any time.

Other good ways to cope with reverse culture shock are by reading the local news from your desti-nation country, writing to your host family, talking with other ThinkImpact Scholars about their re-turn home and writing about your experience. If you kept a journal or a blog while you were abroad, don’t stop writing when you return home! Often reflection after the experience can provide some of the deepest learning.

Being a ThinkImpact Alum Upon completion of the Institute, you will join a growing group of diverse, interdisciplinary scholars from around the world. We value your experience and contribution to making ThinkImpact success-ful. ThinkImpact Alumni Connect provides ongoing opportunities to stay engaged with our global network through monthly newsletters, periodic meet-ups on your campus, and other ThinkImpact updates.

As an Institute alum, you will also have the opportunity to become a ThinkImpact Senior Team Lead. The Team Lead program is an opportunity to take your ThinkImpact experience to the next level by creating a custom program. Customize the subject, length, destination, and season to fit your cam-pus and network, and ThinkImpact will assist with recruiting, planning, training, and implementation – and take care of your costs when you recruit 8 students as your Team.

RETURNING HOME

43

Contacting Alumni and Parents

Can I talk to a ThinkImpact alumnus to learn about their experience? Yes- if you want to hear from one of our amazing alumni, please contact Dana Ward at dana@thinkim-pact.com. She may be able to even get you connected with alumni on your campus or in your city!

If I am a parent who can I talk to about the Institute to learn more? Parents can also feel free to call the ThinkImpact office (303-377-3776) to talk with Dana Ward about the par-ent and Scholar experience. We are also happy to connect you with parents of alumni of the Institute to hear more about their experience with ThinkImpact.

CONNECTING WITH ALUMNI

44

Thank you for taking the time to read through your ThinkImpact Pre-Departure Handbook. We know your experience will be one that will have HIGH IMPACT both on the communities you will work with and on your future as an innovator and entrepreneur-not to mention as a changed citizen of the world. Read on to hear more about the experiences had from our ThinkImpact Institute Alumni that will prepare you for the journey of a lifetime!

It’s that experience that set the bar so high, all future projects and experiences will be measured against. It’s the process, immersion, challenges tackled and project risks you take along the way where you look back and always miss it. I formed many habits that have helped in my problem solving capabilities and the design-thinking curriculum TI exposes Scholars to is right in line with design thinking at the master’s level. Stacy K (Engineering Design & Innovation, Northwestern University), Rwanda 2012

Through participation in the program, participants will gain real, lasting relationships with highly motivated and inspiring individuals, as well as tangible outputs that they helped produce. The materials we were pro-vided with throughout the Institute led to great discussions among the group, and gave us the opportunity to dive deep into various issues facing the growth and development of the non-profit we were paired with. We were given the opportunity to work alongside community members as well as the leaders of the nonprofit organization, and it was extremely rewarding to be a part of high quality, enlightening discussions regarding the challenges being faced by the organization, and through brainstorming solutions together. Kaitlin (University of Southern California) Panama 2014

This is definitely not your typical study abroad experience. This is not a sit in a classroom and read a textbook sort of education program. ThinkImpact wants you to recognize your own skills and assets that you have required through previous experiences and use those to your advantage. The Innovator was an incredible source provided by ThinkImpact that guides you through the process of asset-based community develop-ment, but also allows you to create your adventure. Eric H (Denison University) South Africa 2012

I learned to think of my environment in terms of assets. I fully believe that ThinkImpact gave me the skills to accomplish any goal that I set for myself. Through self-responsibility, collaboration, deep thinking, and risk-taking, I can create change. Rachel J, (University of North Carolina) Rwanda 2012Although I believe that the other ThinkImpact Scholars and I have done great things in Nkontomire, I feel that I’ve gained more from this community than they could ever gain from me in return. The kindness and sincerity of the villagers here has shown me how people can relate to one another in a more peaceful, genu-ine manner than I was taught in the culture of my home country. In addition, the passion and determination of my design team has renewed my sense of hope in humanity’s capacity to work together to achieve good. But most importantly, it is only because I have lived in a rural African village for the past two months that I am now able to see the tremendous opportunity in what others would label as poverty. Scott N (Rollins College), Ghana 2013

I learned how most of the world lives, works, eats, and sleeps. By working together with community members I realized how much untapped potential is just waiting for the right opportunity. This will be a defining mo-ment of my life. Jared Y (Mechanical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University - University Park) Kenya 2013

I would give this a rating of more than 5 stars. Cultural immersion is everything that ThinkImpact stands for. Our first full day in the village was one of the most enjoyable and positively overwhelming experiences in my entire life. I walked around the village with one our translators and everyone welcomed me into their yards and wanted to talk to me and ask me a million questions. I really felt a sense of welcome and that this was going to be a very easy adjustment to village life. One very important part of the ThinkImpact curriculum is taking part in shared cultural experiences. These are activities that you do that allow you to get a better un-derstanding of life in the village. It can be as simple as washing your clothes by hand with your host mom, to slaughtering chicken. These activities create bonds and earn respect amongst the community members. Do as many as you can, and do not hold back. Eric H (Denison University) South Africa 2012

ThinkImpact Alumni Testimonials

45