Spring Term:
February 27 – March 9
Panama
2014
MCB 2930: HEALTH EDUCATION
IN PANAMA
Program Leader:
Professor Melissa Schreiber
mschreiber@valenciacollege.edu
phone 407-582-2246
office: East 1-128
Program Provider:
Casterbridge Tours
http://www.casterbridgetours.com/
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
PART 1: PROGRAM OVERVIEW
 Welcome
 Program Description
 Program Eligibility
 Location and Dates
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PART 2: FINANCES
 Scholarship Eligibility
 Tuition and Fees
 Program Application Fee
 Program Deposit Payment
 Program Balance Payment
 Waitlisted Students
 Financial Aid & Advising
 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
 Cancellation Policy
PART 3: PROGRAM ACADEMICS
 Course Description
 Credit Hours
 Course Format
 Major Topics/Concepts/Skills/Issues
 Learning Objectives
 Valencia Student Core Competencies
 Nature and Scope of the Course
 Instructional Materials
 Grading Scale
 Course Assignments and Grading
 Description of Assignments
 Attendance Policy and No-Show Policy
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


Withdrawal Policy
Make-Up Policy
Academic Honesty
Internet Research Statement
Students with Disabilities
College Policies
Student Code of Conduct
Important Dates
Important Valencia Website Links
Disclaimer
PART 4: PROGRAM ITINERARY
PART 5: PREPARING FOR STUDY ABROAD
 Passport
 Visa
 What to Bring
 International Cell Phone Access
 Time
 Weather
 Personal Budget
 Flight Information
 Accommodations
 Transportation
 Telephone in Europe
 Internet Access
 Electrical Needs
 Meals
 Tipping
 Smoking
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama

Packing List for Study Abroad


PART 6: CITIES, CULTURE, PEOPLE, AND
LANGUAGE
 Panama City, Panama
 Panamanian People & Culture
 What Is Culture Shock?
 Relieving Culture Shock
 Questions and Phrases in Spanish
 Diversity and Discrimination
 What Do Students Say?
PART 7: HEALTHCARE ABROAD
 Stay Healthy!
 Dietary Concerns
 Immunizations
 Prescriptions
 Insurance Coverage
Medical Treatment
Counseling Services
PART 8: SAFETY & EMERGENCY
PREPAREDNESS
 Your Safety
 Valencia’s Student Code of Conduct
 Depart of State Travel Warning
 Alcohol Policy
 Safety Tips
 In-Country Emergency Orientation
 Emergency Contact Information
PART 9: UPON YOUR RETURN
 Reverse Culture Shock
 Program Close-Out Process
PART 10: RESOURCES
WHO TO GO TO FOR WHAT
Questions about the course fitting into My Education Plan: Study abroad advisor
Visa for an international student: International advisor AND the country consulate or embassy
Visa for other non-U.S. passport holder: Country consulate or embassy
How to log into Atlas: Call 407-582-5555 and dial 1 for the student Atlas Help Desk
Atlas account questions: Answer Center (and the Business Office if they can’t help them)
Scholarship authorization: Answer Center
Financial aid: Answer Center or a study abroad advisor
Damage deposit or age 30+ payment: Program provider
Course academic/program logistic questions: Program leader
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
PART 1: Program Overview
Welcome!
¡Bienvenido! We’re thrilled that you have decided to participate in the
Valencia College program to Panama City! KEI Abroad is responsible for
managing the logistics of the program.
Valencia College and Casterbridge Tours are dedicated to making your
experience abroad rewarding. However, studying and traveling abroad
involves a good deal of uncertainty. This is inevitable because pinning
down every small detail (and sometimes even some larger ones) may not
be possible on the same timeline as is usual in the USA. By studying
abroad, a student is trying to become part of a society that is different from
home. Notions of time, assumptions about written communication, and
expectations for social relationships may be subtly or quite dissimilar from those at home. These kinds of differences are true for
developed countries as well as for the developing world.
The best advice we can provide is to be flexible and relaxed, knowing that things will usually work out. Our staff will do
everything possible to ensure that they actually do. Awareness that there will be things which you will not know with certainty will
help you approach your period of study abroad with patience as you cope with the details of preparation.
(The above statement was adapted from a web publication at Virginia Commonwealth University. It is the best advice we have
seen for students studying abroad.)
Program Description
Students will travel to Panama City to learn about the public health awareness in Panama related to infectious disease.
Students will attend a lecture at the USMA University to learn about several tropical diseases, and spend time at the UNAIDS
facility to learn about the global impact of HIV/AIDS. A visit to INDICASAT will provide students an opportunity to learn about the
scientific advancement in research and medicine. Students will get to interact with patients and their families at the Casa del
Buen Samaritano Hospice Center and two hospitals to learn about the importance of public health education and prevention. At
the Ministerio de Salud governmental facility, students will listen to a lecture by a health advisor on promoting and protecting the
health of all Panamanians. Cultural activities will include a trip to the Instituto Conmemorativo Gorgas and the Panama Canal to
learn about the impact of the eradication of yellow fever and the construction of the channel.
Program Eligibility
1. Minimum GPA of 2.5 at the time of applying.
2. Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of travel.
3. Prerequisite: None
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Locations & Dates
Spring Term (Spring Break) – February 27 – March 9, 2014
Once the course roster has been finalized, students will be
required to meet and work online to prepare themselves for
the study-abroad component of the course. Work will begin
in the semester prior to course travel. Required readings,
assignments, and other activities will be provided. There
will be several pre-departure orientation meetings prior to
the travel dates and at least one re-entry meeting.
From February 27th – March 9th, 2014 the course will be
held in Panama. During this period participants will have
hands-on opportunities to apply the course material.
Please see the program itinerary for the daily schedule and
program activities.
PART 2: Finances
Scholarship Eligibility
Valencia College is committed to support study abroad. Each year, requests are made to Student Development and the
Valencia Foundation to provide scholarships for both short-term and semester study abroad. Scholarships are awarded on firstcome, first-serve basis or committee review. In order to receive a scholarship, you must:

You must apply by the application deadline date in order to receive the
FULL scholarship amount. Otherwise, you will only be eligible for a
PARTIAL scholarship.

Be a degree-seeking student at Valencia. Transient, audit, and dual enrollment
students do not qualify for scholarships.
o
If you are graduating in the fall, you are allowed to get a scholarship
for spring break travel. If you are graduating in the spring, you are
allowed to get a scholarship for summer travel. Note that you will not
have access to financial aid after you graduate.

Have completed at least one semester with Valencia AND earned 12 collegelevel credits prior to travel within the last year.

Have a minimum 2.5 GPA by the application deadline date. If this is your first term at Valencia, you can use your high
school or transfer GPA. You must submit an unofficial high school transcript or a transcript from your previous
institution and PERT scores. The SAGE office reserves the right to use the institutional, overall, transfer, or term GPA
and PERT scores to determine eligibility.
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama

Be enrolled in the minimum number of credits in the term of your study abroad program: 3 for spring, 3 for fall, or 2 for
summer (please note that financial aid may have different requirements).

Receive only one scholarship for study abroad within the academic year.

Meet all course requirements (attend all pre- and post-trip meetings, participate in all in-country activities, turn in all
academic assignments, obtain a grade of a C or better).

Submit a thank you card to the donor addressed "To My Esteemed Donor."

Complete the online course evaluation within two weeks upon your return.

Be willing to participate in a SAGE event to help promote study abroad to future students.
Scholarship amounts vary year to year, and there is a cap of 50% of the program fee. It is important to note that the scholarship
amount is based on the projected program cost. If the cost goes down, the amount of your scholarship may go down in the
same proportion as well.
You will be issued the scholarship through your student account. This will be done at some point after you have made the
deposit payment and have been enrolled in the course. You can verify that the funds have been authorized in your student
account under the Term Balance tab. Funds will not be disbursed until the semester term when travel takes place. If you have
questions about your scholarship disbursement, you must visit the Answer Center.
If you do not complete all assignments, are ON TIME to all program activities, attend all programs activities, pass the course
with a C or better, and complete the program close-out process, YOUR SCHOLARSHIP MAY BE REVOKED. In addition, if you
are found guilty of breaking any rules associated with the Student Code of Conduct Policy (6Hx28:8-03) while on study abroad
or you receive lower than a C for your final grade, YOUR SCHOLARSHIP WILL BE REVOKED.
Tuition and Fees
Please see your program website page for the
breakdown of the program fees. Note that the program
fee does NOT include the cost of tuition or other
semester fees: http://valenciacollege.edu
/international/studyabroad/students/shorttermprograms.cf
m. If you look to the right side of the page, you will see a
list of what is included with your program cost and what is
not included. It is important to note that program fees
may INCREASE due to an increase in airfare, departure
taxes, or low enrollment in the program. See the country
website page for details on what is included or not
included in the program fee. These items are listed
below but see the webpage for the most recent
information. Remember that if you pay out-of-state
tuition, you will have to pay that for this course as well.
What’s Included
Airfare
Ground transportation
Hotel accommodations
Breakfasts, lunches, and two
dinners
Medical/Trip insurance
Tours listed in program itinerary
Entrance fees to all sites
Tour director 24/7
What’s Not Included
Course materials
Course tuition and fees
Reassessment fee if less than12
students
Airport departure fees and taxes
increase
Luggage transport/storage fees
Most dinners
Internet access
Passport
Immunizations
Spending money
Tips
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Program Application Fee
The deadline date for the application fee is listed on the program website page. This payment MUST be made at the Business
Office and is NON-REFUNDABLE unless (1) you are not accepted into the program, OR (2) Valencia cancels the program. You
will NOT see this amount appear in your Atlas account but it IS part of the total program fee. You must apply by the
application deadline date in order to qualify for the FULL scholarship amount.
Program Deposit Payment
The deadline date for the program deposit is listed on the program website page. Please note that the amount listed on the
program webpage is an ESTIMATE and is subject to change. This payment MUST be made at the Business Office and is
NON-REFUNDABLE. This fee is subject to increase based on airline ticket increases. You will NOT see this amount
appear in your Atlas account but it IS part of the total program fee.
If the SAGE office has to purchase the airline ticket for your program in your name, so the deposit that you pay covers at a
minimum the total amount of the ticket. You are allowed to make payments towards the deposit at the Business Office, but it
MUST be paid in full by the deadline date. Otherwise, you will not be enrolled in the course and you will be dropped from the
program.
After your deposit is paid, you will be enrolled in the course by the SAGE office. If we encounter holds on your account, you will
be informed to rectify the situation. YOU CANNOT BE ENROLLED IN THE COURSE UNTIL ALL HOLDS ARE CLEARED,
AND YOU ARE NOT OFFICIALLY IN THE PROGRAM UNTIL YOU ARE ENROLLED IN THE COURSE. It is important to note
that you will NOT see the application fee payment or the deposit payment applied to your Atlas student account, but these
payments ARE deducted from the total program cost - shown on your student account.
Program Balance Payment
The balance payment is the other portion of your total program fee that is attached to the course section. This is the amount
that you will see in your Atlas account. Please note that the amount listed on the program webpage is an ESTIMATE and is
subject to change. You pay the balance through your student account. You may pay online through Atlas or in person at the
Business Office. Check your student account to see how much you owe. If you have sufficient financial aid to cover your
balance, you will not need to make a final program payment. You can now log into Atlas to access the NEW dynamic billing
feature:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Sign into Atlas
Go to “Students” tab
Go to Student Resources Channel, and select Business Office
Click on “Account Summary and Tuition Payment Options” link
From the Account Balance and Fee Payment Information page, click on “View my current schedule” link
You should now see a “Your Account” box on the top right of the web page. Click on the link “Current Account
Activity/Class Schedule within this box, and you can view detailed current account activity and class schedule.
Waitlisted Students
If the course filled before you applied, then you may have been added to the waitlist. You should know within a month after the
program application deadline date whether or not you will be added to the regular roster. In the meantime, it is very important
that you do the following:
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
-
Have a valid passport in hand.
Have no additional visa requirements (unless you are added very early in the process).
Have the total program fee ready to be paid.
Attend all pre-departure meeting sessions.
Financial Aid & Advising
Short-term study abroad programs that meet the federal guidelines are eligible for financial aid. This requires a total of 45 hours
of academically-related activities for every one (1) credit hour. Students who are eligible for financial aid may use their aid
towards the cost of tuition and all program fees, with the exception of the application fee and the initial program deposit, as long
as the course satisfies your degree requirements. It is important that the course counts towards a degree or certificate program;
otherwise your financial aid payment may be reduced.
Students are eligible for a maximum amount of student loans per academic year based on their grade level: freshmen are
eligible for a maximum of $5500 if dependent, $9500 if independent; and as a sophomore they would be eligible for $6500 as a
dependent and $10,500 as an independent student. Once you borrow the maximum allowed at the grade level during one
academic year, you cannot receive additional loan funds unless you move up to the next grade level. You are considered
freshman status up to 30 credits and sophomore status at 31+ credits.
You should check with an advisor to see how the study abroad program enrollment might affect your financial aid package.
Please complete a MY EDUCATION PLAN or meet with an academic advisor for details:
EAST CAMPUS
Jocelyn Morales
407-582-2580
jmorales42@valenciacollege.edu
WINTER PARK CAMPUS
Kera Coyer
407-582-6891
kcoyer@valenciacollege.edu
WEST CAMPUS
Fontella Jones
407-582- 1216
fjones01@valenciacollege.edu
OSCEOLA CAMPUS
LAKE NONA CAMPUS
Eva Alipieva
Jonathan Hernandez
407-582-4897
407-582-7780
ealipieva@valenciacollege.edu
jhernandez71@valenciacollege.edu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the scholarship be authorized so that I can see it in my account? Once the rosters are finalized, we
send the information to financial aid. You will know that the scholarship has been posted by checking the balance in
your Atlas account. This should happen before the final payment deadline date, but if not, please contact the SAGE
office.

How do I know if I need to make a final payment? If you
see a $0 balance in your account, then you will know that your
aid has covered the final payment amount. The SAGE office
will also be checking balances.

How much do I owe for a final payment? This depends on
the financial aid you have available for the semester. You need
to log into your account to see the balance. If the scholarship
has not been authorized yet on your account, you need to
deduct that amount from the balance reflected.
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama

How do I log into my Atlas account and locate the information about my balance? Login to your Atlas account,
under Student tab, you will see a “My Account” channel with your account balance displayed.

Why is the amount due in my account different than what is listed on the program website? Tuition and fees is
not included in the total program fee listed on each program website page. Furthermore, the program fee on your
account has been reduced by your application fee and deposit payments. Tuition will be at an in-state or out-of-state
rate depending upon your residency status.

Why isn’t the deposit that I made showing in my Atlas account? Deposits are handled differently. The deposit
amount is part of the total program fee, but it is not attached to the course section as tuition, so you will not see your
deposit payment in Atlas.

What if I don’t have enough money to make the final payment due if I don’t have financial aid? You need to sign
up for TIPS (tuition installment plan): http://valenciacollege.edu/businessoffice/tuition-installment-plan/

What happens if I don’t pay by the deadline date? Due to the unique nature of the study abroad courses, the
system may not drop you from the course, but you are still be responsible for the total amount due. Valencia will
attempt to collect any and all amounts due from a student, and notice will be sent to you via Atlas e-mail and/or mailing
to the current address on file. Until the debt is paid, the account will be placed on hold, prohibition any future
registration or release of a transcript. Valencia also reserves the right to submit any uncollected debts to an external
collection agency at which time the collection costs will be added to your outstanding balance.

Where do I make a payment? For the program balance, you may make the payment on-line through your Atlas
account by electronic check or credit card for you program balance. Cash payments must be made at any campus
Business Office. All application fee payments and program deposits must be paid in person at any campus Business
Office, and you MUST inform the cashier which study abroad program you are making payment on, the professor(s)
leading the course, and the type of payment (application or deposit).

When does my financial aid get disbursed? It gets disbursed two weeks AFTER the start of your LAST class for the
semester.

Who should I speak to if I have questions about my Atlas account charges? You should go to the Business
Office at any campus.

Who should I speak to if I have financial aid questions? You should go to the Answer Center. If, for some reason,
they cannot answer your question, please see your campus study abroad advisor.

What happens if I do not secure my passport and visa (if applicable) by the program departure date?
Unfortunately, there is nothing that we can do once you are committed to the program. You may qualify for a partial
refund from the program provider, but the amount will depend upon how many days out you are from departure.

Can I use financial aid for the summer? Students are eligible for summer financial aid even if they did not attend a
prior semester, but they must enroll in at least 6 credits in order to qualify. Students may be eligible for the remainder
of their Pell Grant award if they did not attend full-time in either the Fall or Spring semesters.
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Cancellation Policy
In the event that you cannot participate on the study abroad program you will be assessed a cancellation fee which will include
the non-refundable program deposit and any other cancellation fees determined by the program provider. The amount of your
refund will depend upon WHEN you cancel. You will be refunded any amount over and above those fees. Once the final
program payment deadline date has passed, there are NO refunds for ANY reason. If you drop out of the program, you will still
be responsible for the FULL amount of the study abroad program payment.
Valencia reserves the right to DROP you from a program prior to departure for not completing the course requirements which
includes, but is not limited to, not attending the mandatory program orientations, not submitting assignments due before
program departure, not submitting SAGE forms due prior to departure, or not obtaining a passport or visa (if applicable). In this
case, YOU WILL NOT BE REFUNDED ANY PORTION OF YOUR PROGRAM PAYMENTS AND YOUR SCHOLARSHIP WILL
BE REVOKED.
IF THE COLLEGE HAS TO CANCEL A PROGRAM PRIOR TO
DEPARTURE, YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR A REFUND. AIRLINE
TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
PART 3: Program Academics
Course Description
This is an introductory Microbiology course. Fieldwork and field trips are required. The
course emphasizes basic science skills in health education including observations in
infectious disease institutes, note taking, prevention, and awareness in public health.
General principles of Microbiology will be emphasized along with the significance and
importance of epidemiology. Special travel fees apply. This is a selected topics course.
Credit Hours
Three (3) semester hours of college credit will be awarded for the successful completion of this course. A grade for this course
will be assigned after the study-abroad portion is completed, the re-entry meeting has been completed, and all assignments
have been turned in.
Course Format
Once the course roster has been finalized, students will be required to meet and work online to prepare themselves for the
study-abroad component of the course. Work will begin in the semester prior to course travel. Required readings, assignments,
and other activities will be provided. There will be several pre-departure orientation meetings prior to the travel dates and at
least one re-entry meeting. From February 27th – March 9th, 2014 the course will be held in Panama. During this period
participants will have hands-on opportunities to apply the course material. Please see the program itinerary for the daily
schedule and program activities.
Major Topics/Concepts/Skills/Issues:

Microbiology

Prevention

Infectious Disease


Public Health
Clinical, Microbiology, and Infectious Disease
Labs

Epidemiology

Safety
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
 Prepare themselves for travel to a foreign country.
 Attend pre-trip meetings and review requirements for foreign travel.
 Describe the basic concepts regarding infectious disease.
 Explain the basics of the pathogenic microbes that are prominent in the region of travel.
 Describe the importance of public health and epidemiology in a foreign country.
 Compare public health in the US versus another country.
 Identify the prevention measures of infectious disease in a foreign country.
 Explain the infectious disease prevention efforts in another country.
 Report infectious disease data from a foreign country.
 Obtain data and prepare a summary report or teaching presentation.
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
The course cannot be repeated.
Valencia Student Core Competencies
Valencia faculty has defined four interrelating competencies (Think, Value, Communicate, Act) that prepare students to succeed
in the world community. These competencies are outlined in the College Catalog. In this course, through classroom lecture
and discussion, group work, and other learning activities, you will further your mastery of those core competencies. Additional
information is available in the College Catalog: http://valenciacollege.edu/catalog/
1. Think – Think clearly, crucially, and creatively; analyze, synthesize, integrate, and evaluate.
2. Value – Make reasoned judgments and responsible commitments.
3. Communicate – Communicate with different audiences using varied means.
4. Act – Act purposefully, reflectively, and responsibly.
Nature and Scope of the Course
The Health Education course in Panama provides students the opportunity to learn about the importance of infectious disease
and public health in a tropical, developing country. Students will combine pre-departure lectures, discussions, and onsite visits
in Panama City to emphasize the basic concepts of Microbiology, infectious disease, and epidemiology. Students will tour
different facilities to understand the importance of health education and prevention of infectious disease. Students are required
to attend all pre and post departure meetings and participate in all in-country learning opportunities.
Instructional Materials
The following are required readings for this course.
 Supplemental readings in Blackboard.
Grading Scale
The following grading scale is used:
A=90-100; B=80-89; C=70-79; D=60-69; F=below 60
423 – 470 points = “A”
376 – 422 points = “B”
329 – 375 points = “C”
282 – 328 points = “D”
Below 281 points = “F”
Course Assignments and Grading
PRE-DEPARTURE:

Be sure that the SAGE office has received your complete application packet. You will not be allowed to participate on
the trip if any materials are missing.

Review the following health information for Asia:

Blackboard will be used in this course. https://learn.valenciacollege.edu/

Complete reading assignments, quizzes, and participate in discussion boards – 100pts. Reading assignments,
quizzes, and discussion boards will be posted in Blackboard.
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama

Attend all pre-departure and re-entry meetings – 50pts. This is required for participation in the study abroad
program.

Country and Culture Assignment – 15pts. Students work in pairs and pick a topic to present to the class for the last
pre-departure meeting.

Pre-Departure Reflections Journal – 10pts. Identify at least two (2) of your own learning (personal, professional or
academic) objectives and share them with the instructor and peers at the beginning. At the end of the course, discuss if
the learning objectives were met. These objectives may guide your daily journal entries.
ON-SITE:

Participate and contribute to all learning activities – 50pts. Actively participate in all work, learning and discussions
(including completing readings prior to discussions) related to learning activities.

Participate and contribute to all cultural activities – 50pts. Actively participate in all work, learning and discussions
(including completing readings prior to discussions) related to cultural activities.

Be a positive student and teammate – 30pts. Conduct yourself in a professional and scholarly way that will enable
peers and faculty to perceive you as a positive role model. Follow through on commitments to your classmates and
teammates. The grade for this component will be based primarily on feedback from in-country faculty.

Reflections Journal – 50pts. Personal daily reflections are required of all students. Write a daily journal entry per
exploring your thoughts and reactions to your learning. You can explore observations about the specific sessions,
general thoughts about the course topic, reflections of cultural significance, relationship to readings, personal
reflections, application of information and insights into personal life as well as to the global society, responses to
questions provided, and any questions that come to you. It is expected that your reflections build in depth over the
course.
RE-ENTRY:

Final Reflections Journal Entry – 15pts. Synthesize your experience. Identify 1-2 experiences or realizations that
you think had significant impact on you and why. Grading will be based on completion of assignment, reflection and
interpretation of ideas presented, integration into your daily or professional life, depth of reflections, self-discovery,
application to current or future area of study or work, and clarity of writing.

Final Class Presentation – 100pts. Students will work in teams of two or three to prepare a multimedia presentation
on a topic related to the experiences abroad. The professor must approve the presentation topic in advance.
Description of Assignments
1. Prior to overseas departure, you must visit the following website and decide for yourself to take the necessary steps to
get any required vaccinations and complete VC forms provided to you by Student Development regarding finances.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/panama
2. Attend all meetings – 10% - Five meetings will be scheduled prior to our departure to Panama and two upon our
return. Attendance at these meetings is required, especially since academic lectures will be presented. Tentatively,
they are:
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama







October 11, 2013, 2-5pm, East Campus 1-112
January 17, 2014, 2-5pm, East Campus 1-112
January 31, 2014, 2-5pm, East Campus 1-112
February 7, 2014, 2-5pm, East Campus 1-112
February 21, 2014, 2-5pm, East Campus 1-112
March 21, 2014, 2-5pm, East Campus 1-112
March 28, 2014, 2-5pm, East Campus 1-112
3. Complete reading assignments - all required reading material will be distributed to students by Professor Schreiber in
Blackboard and in the pre-departure meetings. Reading assignments will be initiated by the instructor at that time as
well. Each pre-departure orientation session will involve collaborative learning activities. (e.g. simulations or group
tasks) with product and participation assessed.
4. Assignments and Quizzes – You are required to complete the discussion boards and quizzes in Blackboard. Failure
to do so may result in the loss of your Valencia Foundation Scholarship.
5. Grading Rubric for Country and Culture Assignment
Grading Rubric for Written Assignments
Research
Thoroughly researched the selected topics regarding the country Panama.
Oral Presentation
Effective communication skills presented.
Total Points
6.
10 points
5 points
15 points
Participate and contribute to all learning activities and be a positive student/teammate – actively participate in all
work, learning and discussions related to learning and cultural activities during tours and excursions and afterwards
as part of debriefings. Conduct yourself in a professional and scholarly way that will enable peers and faculty to
perceive you as a positive role model. Follow through on commitments to your classmates and teammates. The
grade for this component will be based primarily on observation by Professor Schreiber.
7. Journals – journal entries are required of all students. The journal will provide a vehicle for reflection and professional
development. All participants will write journal entries on questions assigned in country. The objective is for students
to conduct critical analysis in these journal entries of the information they are gathering and knowledge they are
gaining during trips in Panama , along with associated lectures given by Professor Schreiber. Grading will be based
on completion of assignment, reflection and interpretation of ideas presented, integration into your daily or
professional life, depth of reflections, self-discovery, application to current or future area of study or work, and clarity
of writing. Entries (responses to assigned questions) should be at least one page long in the journal, and there is no
maximum length.
8. Final Class Presentation – students should use material from the class, including the experiential learning component
of the trip and knowledge gained while abroad, assigned reading and lectures to form this presentation, but students
are allowed to use outside material, such as primary sources, other textbooks, academic articles, etc. as well to help
create the content of the presentation. Please cite material properly. Be sure to provide full citations for all
references, including internet sources. The presentation should be approximately 15-20 minutes in length. This can
be done in PowerPoint presentation or similar software. The following is the grading rubric for the presentation:
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Grading Rubric for Presentation
Attribute
Emerging – 15
points
Presenter seems
uninvolved.
Indifferent. Work is
flat, stiff. All tell no
show. Anyone could
have done it.
Competent – 20
points
Personality, flavor,
style of presenter
shows sometimes.
Pleasant,
acceptable, earnest,
cautious, routine
THINKING – indepth, divergent
Takes an unreflective
and routine approach
to the subject. Little
evidence of gaining
new understandings.
IDEA & CONTENT –
clearly developed
Central idea is
undeveloped. Strays
from topic. Hard to
follow. Lacks details
and examples.
Order is confusing.
Ideas, details, and
events not shaped
yet. The beginning
and end are vague
and undefined.
Takes a successful
but ordinary
approach to the
subject. Remains at
knowledge level
thinking.
Central idea with
support is obvious.
Stays on topic.
Predictable.
VOICE – Personal,
expressive,
revealing; compels
involvement from
audience.
ORGANIZATION –
work is easy to
understand
Order of presentation
makes sense.
Beginning, middle,
and end are obvious.
Most details are in
the right place.
Exemplary – 25 points
Confident, vital, honest
style gives viewer a
powerful sense of
presenter's convictions.
Natural language
amuses, provokes,
delights.
Unique, insightful, or
fresh approach.
Analyzes, synthesizes,
evaluates and applies
new knowledge.
Central idea is focused,
clear, and specific.
Fresh and original
insights. Details keep
viewers attention.
Clear direction moves
audience through the
presentation. Beginning
gains attention. Details
fit and build to main
point. End provokes
thought.
100 possible points
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Attendance Policy and No-Show Procedures
There will be several pre-departure and re-entry meetings (see the Program
Itinerary for details). These meetings are required and if you miss any your
course grade will be jeopardized. In Panama you are expected to participate in
all learning and cultural activities conducted during the in-country portion of this
program. If you must miss a class or activity or are late it will impact your grade.
Classroom and activity attendance and punctuality is vital to academic success.
Excused absences will be allowed in accordance with Valencia’s official policies.
“The college believes that regular attendance and class participation are significant factors which promote success in college.
Students are expected to attend all classes in which they are enrolled” (Policy 6Hx28:10-22). Classroom attendance and
punctuality is vital to academic success. If you miss a class, you need to contact a classmate to get the notes you missed.
Students who do not maintain regular attendance will be withdrawn by the professor unless other arrangements have been
made with the professor. Missing the equivalent of more than two classes for any reason, other than absences excused in
accordance with Valencia’s policies, is excessive and a basis for withdrawal.
Withdrawal Policy
Per Valencia Policy 4-07 (Academic Progress, Course Attendance and Grades, and Withdrawals), a student who withdraws
from class before the established deadline for a particular term will receive a grade of “W”. A student is not permitted to
withdraw 30 days after the program deposit deadline. A faculty member MAY withdraw a student up to the beginning of the
final exam period for violation of the class attendance policy. A student who is withdrawn by faculty for violation of the class
attendance policy will receive a grade of “W”. Any student who withdraws or is withdrawn from a class during a third or
subsequent attempt in the same course will be assigned a grade of “F”. For a complete policy and procedure overview on
Valencia Policy 4-07 please go to: http://valenciacollege.edu/catalog/10-11/pdf/09B_policies.pdf. NOTE: If you are withdrawn
from the course for nonattendance, you will still be responsible for paying the program fee in FULL and you will be
responsible to pay back the College for any scholarship funds received.
Make-Up Policy
This course cannot be made up. Missed assignment deadlines may be made up within 24 hours of missed assignment deadline
only.
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Academic Honesty
Each student is required to follow Valencia policy regarding academic honesty. All work submitted by students is expected to
be the result of the student’s individual thoughts, research, and self-expression unless the assignment specifically states “group
project.” Any act of academic dishonesty will be handled in accordance with Valencia policy as set forth in the Student
Handbook and Catalog. At Valencia, we expect the highest standards of academic honesty. Academic dishonesty is prohibited
in accordance with policy 6Hx28: 8-11 upheld by the Vice President of Student Affairs (http://valenciacollege.edu
/generalcounsel/policydetail.cfm?RecordID=193). Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, plagiarism, cheating,
furnishing false information, forgery, alteration or misuse of documents, misconduct during a testing situation, and misuse of
identification with intent to defraud or deceive. Students shall take special notice that the assignment of course grades is the
responsibility of the student's individual professor. When the professor has reason to believe that an act of academic dishonesty
has occurred, and before sanctions are imposed, the student shall be given informal notice and an opportunity to be heard by
the professor. Any student determined by the professor to have been guilty of engaging in an act of academic dishonesty shall
be subject to a range of academic penalties as determined by the professor. These penalties may include, but not be limited to,
one or more of the following:

loss of credit for an assignment, examination, or project;

reduction in the course grade;

or a grade of "F" in the course.
At the option of the professor, the appropriate administrator of the campus may be furnished with written notification of the
occurrence and the action taken. If such written notice is given, a copy shall be provided to the student. Students guilty of
engaging in a gross or flagrant act of academic dishonesty or repeated instances of academic dishonesty shall also be subject
to administrative and/or disciplinary penalties that may include warning, probation, suspension, and/or expulsion from the
college.
Internet Research Statement
Because of the variety of sources, ease of publication, lack of central control and proliferation of commercial information on the
free Internet, it is often hard to tell if the information is reliable. Many sites contain research and information of high
quality. However, unlike traditional print publications or library-based electronic resources, there is usually no process of peer
review, nor is there an editor verifying the accuracy of information presented on the Internet. There are an increasing number of
sites containing information that may be incomplete, anonymously written, out-of-date, biased, fraudulent, or whose content may
not be factual. Students should, therefore, use caution in use of the free Internet for their research needs. For academic topics
that are addressed in scholarly literature, use of electronic databases or visiting the library may better meet your
needs. However, each professor makes the final determination of what is or is not accepted as a valid source so review the
syllabus for specific guidelines from your professor.
Students with Disabilities
Students with physical or mental disabilities who may require accommodations are encouraged to contact the Office for
Students with Disabilities (http://valenciacollege.edu/osd/). Students with learning disabilities who may require
accommodations are encouraged to contact this office as well. After disclosing, students are urged to discuss their needs with
individual instructors. This should be done at the beginning of each semester. Instructors in conjunction with appropriate
college officials will provide assistance and/or accommodations only to those students who have completed this process.
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
College Policies
A full description of all College policies can be found in the College Catalog at: http://valenciacollege.edu/catalog/; Policy
Manual at: http://www.valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/; and the Student Handbook at:
http://www.valenciacollege.edu/pdf/studenthandbook.pdf.
Student Code of Conduct
Students are expected to adhere to Valencia’s Student Code of Conduct at all times during a study abroad program.
Remember that you are a representative of Valencia College, as well as a cultural ambassador of the United States, so you
should not engage in any activities abroad that you would not consider engaging in while on campus. The Valencia handbook
can be downloaded at http://valenciacollege.edu/pdf/studenthandbook.pdf please pay particular attention to the “Academic
Policies and Procedures” sections beginning on page 57.
Important Dates
Travel takes place in Spring Term 2/27/2014 – 3/9/2014 (during Spring Break).
Once you have paid your application fee and deposit, you are committed to the
program and cannot withdraw. If you choose not to participate, there will NOT be
any refunds of program fees paid.
College Closed (Credit Classes Do Not Meet): See College calendar for important
dates and final exam schedule at http://www.valenciacollege.edu/calendar.
Important Valencia Website Links

College Calendar: http://valenciacollege.edu/calendar/

College Catalog: http://valenciacollege.edu/catalog/

Valencia Policy and Procedures: http://valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/policy/

FERPA: http://valenciacollege.edu/ferpa/

ADA: http://valenciacollege.edu/osd/handbook/sec4.htm

Medical Records: http://valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/policy/ValenciaCollegePolicy.cfm?policyID=186
Disclaimer
Changes may be made at the discretion of the instructor.
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
PART 4: Program Itinerary
The program itinerary listed below contains the weekly schedule of meeting sessions, assignments, and activities. Dates are
subject to change.
DAY
/DUE
DATE
PRE-DEPARTURE PROGRAM ACTIVITIES
Link to
Outcomes
Academic
Time
Fri
Pre-Departure Orientation #1: Friday, October 11, 2:00-5:00 p.m., East Campus 1112
1
3
2
3
2
12
3
3
10/11/13

Icebreaker activity.

Collect medical forms, photos, and any other missing documents. Pass out
recommended packing list.

Review short-term study abroad information sheet. Clarify payment and
scholarship questions.

Study abroad program overview: destination, academic requirements, course
syllabus, transportation, accommodations, etc.

Discuss passport and visa process.

Panama country and culture assignments. Students will work in pairs and pick
3 - 4 topics to present to the class for the last pre-departure meeting.
The following is a list of possible topics that will be covered.
Fri
1/17/14
1/18/14 1/30/14
Fri
1/31/14
 Economy (monetary system) and legal matters.
 Communication styles (nonverbal).
 Cultural values, customs, and belief system
 Demographics, geography, history, politics, and religion.
 Food, language, and sports.
 Transportation and safety.
 Weather and time system.
Pre-Departure Orientation #2: Friday, January 17, 2:00-5:00 p.m., East Campus 1112

Icebreaker activity.

Discuss the different components of Blackboard: reading assignments,
discussion boards, and quizzes.

Lecture, learning activities, and discussions regarding the basics of
Microbiology and infectious disease.

Question and answer session for country and culture assignment.
At-Home in Blackboard:

Icebreaker activities in Blackboard.

Reading assignment, discussion board, and quiz will be completed in
Blackboard regarding the basics of Microbiology and infectious disease.
Pre-Departure Orientation #3: Friday, January 31, 2:00-5:00 p.m., East Campus 1112
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
2/1/14
2/6/14
Fri
2/7/14

Lecture, learning activities, and discussions regarding the basics of public
health and epidemiology.

Discuss learning objectives (personal, professional, or academic) for the study
abroad course.

Question and answer session for country and culture assignment.
At-Home in Blackboard:

6
4,5
3
4
6
1, 2,
3, 4, 5
10
1, 2,
3, 4, 5
3
Reading assignment, discussion board, and quiz will be completed in
Blackboard regarding public health and epidemiology.
Pre-Departure Orientation #4: Friday, February 7, 2:00-5:00 p.m., East Campus 1112

3
Health, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness in Study Abroad orientation.
Health concerns
Travel warnings, policy, and resources
Panama: crime, theft, politics, illness, injury, safety, and views towards Americans
College policies, expectations, controlled substances policy, buddy system, curfews,
general conduct, and sexual harassment
Emergency plan
Peer group leader (student leader) role assignment; bus captain, wake up calls
Phone procedure / usage of personal cell phones
Personal property and valuables
Insurance
Travel behavior
Strangers in a country
Leave copy of important papers with family member
Personal medical conditions to be aware of as a group
Medications and prescriptions
Accommodations- hotel, room size, air conditioning or lack of, food differences and
portion sizes
Luggage, backpacks, clothing
2/8/14 2/13/14
2/14/12/20/14
Fri

Special needs?

Lecture, learning activities, and discussions regarding the basics of infectious
disease education and prevention measures, statistics, and reporting data.

Question and answer session for country and culture assignment.
At-Home in Blackboard:

Reading assignment, quiz, and discussion board will be completed in
Blackboard regarding the basics of infectious disease education and prevention
measures, statistics, and reporting data.
At-Home Assignment:

Work on country/culture presentation with partner.

Finalize learning objectives for the study abroad course
Pre-Departure Orientation #5: Friday, February 21, 2:00-5:00 p.m., East Campus
1-112
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
2/21/14

Students’ mini-presentations on Panama country/culture.

Students will discuss their learning objectives for the study abroad course.

General question/answer session.

Go over any last minute program logistics or changes.
TOTAL
DAY/
DATE
Thurs
2/27/14
LOCATION
Orlando
to
Panama
City
IN-COUNTRY ACTIVITIES
MORNING ACTIVITIES

Depart Orlando and arrive in
Panama City.
AFTERNOON / EVENING ACTIVITIES

Meet our tour manager/guide at
the airport and transfer to the
hotel.

Orientation meeting with our
tour guide at the hotel.

Dinner will be provided by the
hotel.

Review Following Items:
Itineraries
Emergency contact cards
Medical emergency cards
Local maps will be distributed by tour
guide
Safety
Buddy system
Curfews
Meeting times and locations
Cell phone dialing procedures
Hotel amenities and services
Location of dining room in hotel and
meal times
Transportation departure times
Procedure for any concerns during off
hours, middle of the night, etc.
49
Link to
Outco
mes
Acad
emic
Time
1
2
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Fri
2/28/14
Sat
3/1/14
Sun
3/2/14
Mon
3/3/14
Panama
City
Panama
City
Panama
City
Panama
City

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

Attend the Universidad Católica
Santa María La Antigua (USMA)
and listen to a lecture on infectious
disease. The university was the
first private educational institution
to be established in Panama City.

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

At the hotel, we will watch the
movie “And the Band Played On” to
understand the discovery and
spread of the HIV virus.

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

Tour and lecture at Instituto de
Investigaciones Cientificas y
Servicios de Alta Tecnologia
(INDICASAT) to learn about the
new advances in scientific research
and tropical medicine. INDICASAT
is divided into four centers:
Biodiversity and Drug Discovery,
Neuroscience, Cell Biology and
Molecular Diseases, and Center for
Clinical Trials and Translation
Medicine.

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

Visit the Casa del Buen Samaritano
hospice center and interact with
patients and their families. The
center is dedicated to raise

LUNCH ON OWN.

Professor Schreiber’s
presentation on Panama and
infectious disease.

DINNER will be provided by the
hotel.

Watch the “Viral Outbreak –
The Science of Emerging
Disease” to learn about
research on detecting and
fighting emerging viral
pathogens.

Debriefing and journal writing.

LUNCH provided.

Tour of the ONU SIDA/UNAIDS
center of the United Nations to
understand the global impact of
HIV/AIDS.

DINNER ON YOUR OWN.

Journal writing regarding the
day’s activities.

Debriefing time and structured
free time. Students will be
required to travel in groups of
three to four at all times when
not participating in a whole
group activity and designate a
group leader.

LUNCH provided.

Tour and lecture at INDICASAT will
continue in the afternoon.

DINNER ON YOUR OWN.

Student led discussions regarding
the visit at INDICASAT.

Journal writing regarding the day’s
activities.

LUNCH provided.

Activity in the hotel regarding the
risks and prevention of infectious
disease.

Journal writing regarding the day’s
activities.
2, 3,
4
9
3, 4
6
2, 3
10
3, 4
6
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
awareness of HIV/AIDS in Panama.
Tues
3/4/14
Wed
3/5/14
Thurs
3/6/14
Fri
3/7/14
Panama
City
Panama
City
Panama
City
Panama
City

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

Tour the teaching Hospital del Nino
to understand the importance of
infectious disease research and
medical care. This teaching
hospital is part of the joint initiative
with the office of Research and
Graduate Studies of the University
of Panama to understand and
promote the health of all
Panamanians.

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

Interact with patients struggling with
infectious disease at the Hospital
Santo Tomas. This hospital is
equipped with the most advanced
technology and quality health care
providers.

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

Listen to a lecture by the
government’s principal advisor
regarding the health of all
Panamanians at the Ministerio de
Salud.

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

Tour the Instituto Conmemorativo
Gorgas facility that is dedicated to

DINNER ON YOUR OWN.

Debriefing time and structured free
time. Students will be required to
travel in groups of three to four at all
times when not participating in a
whole group activity and designate
a group leader.

LUNCH provided.

Tour of the hospital will continue
into the afternoon.

DINNER ON YOUR OWN.

Journal writing regarding the day’s
activities.

Debrief regarding the study abroad
course in Panama.

LUNCH provided.

Professor Schreiber’s presentation
on reporting data for infectious
disease for the lecture on Thursday,
March 6th at the Ministerio de Salud.

DINNER ON YOUR OWN.

Journal writing regarding the day’s
activities.

Watch the movie “Contagion” to
understand the public health efforts
of the CDC and WHO to track a
deadly pandemic.

LUNCH provided.

Reflection and group projects on
reporting statistics from different
infectious diseases.

DINNER ON YOUR OWN.

Journal writing regarding the day’s
activities.

Debriefing time and structured free
time. Students will be required to
travel in groups of three to four at all
times when not participating in a
whole group activity and designate
a group leader.

LUNCH provided.

Structured free time. Students will
be required to travel in groups of
three to four at all times when not
2, 3
9
4
9
5
7
2, 3,
4
6
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
the sciences surrounding health
and infectious disease. The
institute is dedicated to Dr. William
Crawford Gorgas who eradicated
yellow fever, which allowed the
construction of the channel.
Sat
3/8/14
Sun
3/9/14
Panama
City
Panama
City to
Orlando

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

Visit the Panama Canal and learn
about its construction was only
possible after the eradication of
yellow fever. Yellow fever created
panic and made the site
undesirable and feared by many
employees halting the construction
of the canal. The canal is a
monument to modern medicine and
science.

Continental BREAKFAST provided
by the hotel.

Depart Panama City.
participating in a whole group
activity and designate a group
leader.

DINNER ON YOUR OWN.

Debrief and student-led reflection
discussions.

Journal writing regarding the day’s
activities.

LUNCH provided.

The tour of the Panama Canal will
continue into the afternoon.

Farewell DINNER will be provided
and final reflection/discussion of the
trip.

Journal writing regarding the day’s
activities.
2, 3,
4
 Arrive in Orlando in the evening.
0
TOTAL:
DAY/
DATE
Fri
3/21/14
RE-ENTRY PROGRAM ACTIVITIES
Re-Entry Meeting #1: Friday, March 21, 2:00-5:00 p.m., East Campus 1-112

Review SAGE closeout process and collect thank you cards.
o Complete the online GPI post-assessment evaluation.
o
Complete the online SAGE program evaluation.
o
Write a thank you card to your donor addressed to: My Esteemed Valencia
Donor.
10
74
Link to
Outcomes
Acad
emic
Time
1, 2,
3, 4, 5
3
1, 2,
3, 4, 5
16


3/22/14 3/27/14
Final reflection journal share. Positives and negative experiences.
Share photos and videos of your experience to the class (bring a USB drive with all
photos and videos).
 Students will discuss if their learning objectives were met for the study abroad
course.
 Students will turn in their reflections journal from the study abroad experience.
 Discuss the requirements for the final multimedia student presentation.
At-Home Assignment:

Work on final project.

Students will work in teams of two or three to prepare a multimedia presentation on
a topic related to the experiences abroad.

The professor must approve the presentation topic in advance.
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Fri
3/28/14
Re-Entry Meeting #2: Friday, March 28, 2:00-5:00 p.m., East Campus 1-112

1, 2,
3, 4, 5
3
TOTAL:
22
GRAND TOTAL:
145
Student multimedia presentations (15 – 20 minutes each).
PART 5: Preparing for Study Abroad
Passport
All international travelers need a valid passport. If you do not already have a passport, we strongly urge
you to visit the U.S. Department of State website at http://travel.state.gov/passport/index.html as soon as
possible. You can fill out the application and turn it in at any US Post Office. Please note that the
University of Central lorida has an office that issues passports and does not require an
appointment: https://spot.ucf.edu/passport.html
Make sure that your passport will not expire for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Otherwise,
you will need to renew your passport before departing for the program. Passports can be expedited for an extra cost.
If you are on a SAGE program that requires the office to purchase your airline ticket, and you do not have a passport
at the time the airline tickets are being purchased, your ticket will be delayed, you may have to pay additional fees,
and you may not have the same flight itinerary as the rest of the group.
I lost my passport! What do I do?
Be a savvy traveler and prepare a “passport replacement kit” before you leave, containing the following documentation and
support items. Leave a complete set with a family member or friend:




Two passport photos (US format in inches)
A clear color copy of the photo and signature page of your passport, indicating passport number, date, and place of issue
Photocopy of your social security card
An additional official photo I.D. (driver’s license, etc.)
Panama 2014
MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Always report the loss of your passport to the US embassy and the police, as well as to the program leader and tour operator.
Go to the passport section of the American Embassy in Panama with your kit and your police declaration of theft, and you can
get another one relatively easily. Be prepared to pay a replacement fee of $135, payable by cash or credit card. Visit
http://panama.usembassy.gov/lost_or_stolen_passports3.html for detailed instructions. If you’ve lost all your identity cards at
the same time, bring along a friend (and their passport) who is a US citizen and can vouch for your identity.
Visa
As of April 2010, U.S. tourists arriving by air or road are permitted to stay in Panama for 180 days, without obtaining a formal
visa. U.S. citizens entering Panama by commercial flight as tourists will be charged a $5.00 tourist fee when they purchase
their travel ticket. You can also verify visa requirements at: http://www.visahq.com/. Please note that not all visas are
approved. You will have to do this at your own expense and risk. If you are asked to provide
documentation for some aspect of the program, please contact the SAGE office. It is IMPERATIVE
that you begin this process early on. Note that you must already have a valid passport in order to
obtain your visa. If you are on an F or J visa, you must meet with an international advisor to see if
there are any travel restrictions on your visa.
YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING YOUR OWN VISA. VALENCIA WILL NOT BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR REFUNDING ANY PAYMENTS MADE IF YOU DO NOT GET YOUR
PASSPORT AND/OR VISA IN TIME FOR TRAVEL.
International Cell Phone Access
Before traveling overseas, be sure to contact your phone provider to find out about international rates and phone settings you
should know. The following information is for AT&T customers only but is given as an example on questions to ask your
program provider. If you are not fully aware of how your phone works internationally, you can incur very high charges without
intending to. . Note that you can put your phone into “airplane mode” and still access WiFi.
You can purchase international packages for one month for calls, texts, and data for Internet usage. If you plan on using your
phone overseas, be sure to purchase a package because the regular rates are very expensive. The following is a list of the
AT&T prices. Note that they prorate the package based on the date you request it and where you are in your billing cycle. Be
sure to request that billing start from the beginning of your cycle. Here is an example (please note that rates may change):



International roaming for one month: $5.99 and each call is a discounted rate
International text package of 50: $10.00
International 20MB data: $24.99 (1MB overseas would be $20.00 without the package)
CELLULAR PHONE

ROAMING: Turn your cellular phone OFF before you get on the plane. You can turn the phone on again once you
arrive to your destination.

VOICEMAIL: It is important to leave your phone OFF if you do not want to be charged over $1.00 for every voicemail
that is left for you. If your phone is ON, you will be charged when someone calls and they leave a message.
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iPHONE

ROAMING: Turn roaming OFF before you get on the plane (settings – general network) and set the phone to FLIGHT
MODE. When the plane lands, you can set the phone back to normal from flight mode, but leave roaming
OFF. Remember to turn roaming back ON when you return to the United States.

VOICEMAIL: It is important to leave your phone OFF if you do not want to be charged over $1.00 for every voicemail
that is left for you. If your phone is ON, you will be charged when someone calls and they leave a message.

FREE CALLING AND TEXTING APPS: There are several free applications that you can download to send and
receive calls and texts via your iPhone, iTouch, or iPad. You will need the headphones with the integrated
microphone:
o
Viber: For iPhone only. Both users must have the app downloaded and you can make calls to each other
even internationally.
o
Textfree to Voice: For iPhone, iTouch, and iPad. The sender must have the app to send free texts but the
user does not need an app or an iPhone. Both users need the app for calling. You get 10 free minutes and
you can earn more minutes by downloading different apps or you can buy minutes which are extremely
cheap. This application works in the following countries: US, Australia, Canada, China, the Dominican
Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, Guam, Guatemala, India, Netherlands, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines,
Puerto Rico, UK, Venezuela.
Time
Time in Panama calculated in UTC/GMT hours. The time difference between the east coast of the USA and Panama is GMT-5
hours (i.e., 3 PM in Orlando is 2 PM in Panama). This website: www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/ -- provides all time zones
and running, up-to-date clocks for all capital cities worldwide. Panama, for the year 2013, is not observing Daylight Savings
time.
Weather
The climate in Panama is warm, with an average temperature of 81°F. The warmest average max/high temperature is 90°F in
February, March, and April. The month with the driest weather is March, when on balance 10 mm (0.4 in.) of rain, sleet, hail, or
snow falls across two days.
Personal Budget
Make sure to budget enough money for food, personal items, social/sightseeing activities, souvenirs, local transportation, etc.
Based on student feedback, we suggest that you budget $500. Your actual expenses will vary depending on your personal
needs, interests and habits.
Bills & Denominations
Panama uses the US dollar as its currency. The official name for it is the balboa, but it’s exactly the same bill, and in practice
people use the terms ‘dólar’ and ‘balboa’ interchangeably. Panamanian coins are of the same value, size and metal as US
coins, though both are frequently used. Coins include one, five, 10, 25 and 50 centavos (or centésimos) – 100 centavosequal
one balboa. Most businesses won’t break US$50 and US$100 bills, and those that do may require you to present your passport.
(http://www.lonelyplanet.com/panama/practical-information/money-costs)
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
Changing Money
It will not be necessary to change money in Panama, since the U.S. dollar is the paper currency there. Although Panama mints
its own coins, they will accept U.S. coins. Should you need to exchange coins, you can get the latest exchange rate at
www.xe.com or www.oanda.com. Currency can be exchanged at banks and designated exchange points. Banks and exchange
services charge a fee for their service. Fees vary depending on where you exchange your money. Some places will charge a
flat fee and others will take a percentage of the money you are exchanging. Because of this, you should try to avoid changing a
lot of money, and use ATMs instead.
Cash
We recommend that you bring $100 in cash to start with. You will need cash for snacks, souvenirs, incidentals, and tip money.
Remember, if your cash is stolen or lost there is no way of recouping your loss; you should bring this cash in your money belt.
**Please keep all important materials (i.e., cash, airline tickets, visa, and passport) in a money belt that can be worn under your
clothing.
Important: We have had several students bring a large sum of money
and get it stolen or lose it. Do NOT put all of your cash in one place!
Also, be prepared to have someone at home wire you money should
the situation arise.
ATM & Debit Cards
Throughout Panama, ATMs are readily available except in the most isolated places – look for the red ‘sistema clave’ sign.
Generally speaking, ATMs accept cards on most networks (Plus, Cirrus, MasterCard, Visa, Amex), though a charge is usually
levied depending on your issuing bank. The amount that can be withdrawn at one time varies from bank to bank, though it is
usually around US$500. (http://www.lonelyplanet.com/panama/practical-information/money-costs#ixzz2UFXsFRom.)
Credit Cards
Although they are widely accepted at travel agencies, upscale hotels and many restaurants, credit cards can be problematic
almost everywhere else. In short, carry enough cash to get you to the next bank or ATM.
It is best to check in advance to be sure your credit card will be accepted, and always carry enough cash to get you to the next
ATM.
Important: Make sure to notify your bank, checking account holder,
and credit card company that you are traveling and that there will be
international activity on your account. Otherwise, the bank will
freeze your accounts for suspected fraud. A secure email to your
bank two weeks before you leave should take care of it.
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Traveler’s Checks
Traveler’s checks used to be the safest way of transporting money, but they are quickly being outmoded by the convenience of
ATMs. If you bring traveler’s checks, try to get them in euros and be sure to keep a copy of the check numbers in a separate
place. Traveler’s checks can get lost easily, they are difficult to cash, and there is usually a large exchange fee.
Flight Information
Below is EXAMPLE information about your flights between the USA and Panama. The KEI Onsite Director, Daniele Katz, will
greet the group at the airport, arrange transportation to the hotel in Panama, and stay with the group during the program. YOU
WILL RECEIVE AN UPDATE FLIGHT ITINERARY WHEN THAT IT PURCHASED WHICH USUALLY OCCURS SEVERAL
MONTHS PRIOR TO THE DEPARTURE DATE.
SAMPLE U.S. TO OVERSEAS FLIGHT INFORMATION
Date:
27 Feb.
2014
City to
City:
Orlando, FL to
Miami, FL
Airline:
American
Airlines
Flight #:
#1837
Depart:
Arrival:
10:20 AM
11:15 AM
Date:
27 Feb.
2014
City to
City:
Miami, FL to
Panama City,
Panama
Airline:
American
Airlines
Flight #:
#2173
Depart:
Arrival:
12:00 PM
2:55 PM
#982
Depart:
12:50 PM
Arrival:
4:55 PM
Depart:
Arrival:
7:00 PM
8:00 PM
SAMPLE OVERSEAS TO U.S. FLIGHT INFORMATION
Date:
Date:
9 March
2014
City to
City:
Panama City,
Panama to
Miami, FL
Airline:
9 March
2014
City to
City:
Miami, FL to
Orlando, FL
Airline:
American
Airlines
Flight #:
American
Airlines
Flight #:
#1748
Accommodations
WorldstrideTours will reserve the hotels and they reserves the right to change accommodations as needed. If it becomes
necessary to change your accommodations due to unforeseen circumstances, we will inform you as soon as possible. Students
are assigned to bedrooms based on gender. Please note that hotel information is subject to change. You will receive
confirmation of the hotel a couple of months prior to departure.
Transportation
Besides airport transfers, we will be using public transportation in Panama City.
The most popular and accessible transportation are the buses and taxis.
 Buses
Panama City has a public bus transportation system known as the
Baytown Trolley. The bus system travels to virtually every location in the
city, with different routes going to different spots. Every bus has air
conditioning, as well as bike racks and handicap accessible lifts. The bus
system runs from 6 am to 6:30 pm Monday through Friday.
(www.tripadvisor.com)
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
 Taxis
Panama City offers transportation services through yellow taxis. Taxis do not use a meter to measure fares, instead
using a zone system for fares that is published by the Autoridad de Transito y Transporte Terrestre, Panama's transit
authority. Major vehicle rental companies are located at the airports.
Telephone in Panama
Note that placing a direct international call, especially from your hotel room, is very expensive. We recommend using the
International Phone Card or an online service such as Skype.
The cheapest way to phone is to use a prepaid phone card, available in kiosks, supermarkets, and pharmacies in quantities of
$5, $10, and $20 -- however, these cards have a life span of 15 to 30 days. ClaroCOM has the best rates with 5¢ per minute for
national and international calls to the U.S. and the U.K., and 35¢ per minute to cellular phones. Cable and wireless Telechip
cards are less value at 15¢ per minute for national calls and 25¢ per minute for international calls. The cards have an access
phone number and a scratch-off code, as well as bilingual service. Remember that hotels charge a connection fee even if the
connection number is a toll-free number.
For Directory Assistance -- For a number within Panama, dial tel. 102. For assistance with finding an international
number, dial tel. 106 for an operator who can connect you with international directory assistance.
For Operator Assistance -- If you need operator assistance when making a call, dial tel. 106. For an international
operator in the U.S., dial tel. 109 (AT&T), 108 (MCI), or 115 (Sprint).
To Call Panama from Outside the Country -- First dial the international access code -- 011 from the U.S.; 00 from the U.K.,
Ireland, or New Zealand; or 0011 from Australia. Then dial the country code (507) followed by the number.
To Make International Calls from Within Panama -- First dial 00 and then the country code (U.S. or Canada 1, U.K. 44,
Ireland 353, Australia 61, and New Zealand 64). Next dial the area code and number. For example, if you want to call the British
Embassy in Washington, D.C., dial tel. 00-1-202-588-7800.
Toll-free Numbers -- In Panama, numbers beginning with 800 are toll-free, but calling an "800" number in the States from
Panama is not toll-free. In fact, it costs the same as an overseas call.
( http://www.frommers.com/destinations/panama/3285020157.html#ixzz2UMeKvBy3)
Internet Access
Internet access is plentiful in Panama, except in more remote areas. Nearly every hotel has at least one computer with Internet
access; some have data ports or Wi-Fi (usually in the hotel lobby or business center). Most Internet cafes charge between $2
and $3 per hour.
Electrical Needs
Electrical plugs are the same as in the U.S., as is Panama's voltage, 110 AC.
Meals
Continental breakfasts and lunches will be provided each day; in addition, two dinners will be provided: one, casual pizza dinner
and one cultural dinner at the end of the program. Students must budget funds for additional meals. We suggest budgeting
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
US$2-$4 per meal. There are numerous cafes and restaurants in Panama City. Our Onsite Director will recommend places that
are good and will not break the bank.
Tipping
The standard tipping rate in Panama is around 10% of the bill, though in small cafés and more casual places, tipping is not
necessary. Taxi drivers do not expect tips.
Smoking
All restaurants, bars, and dance clubs have recently gone non-smoking, so smokers will have to take it outside. Smoking isn't
even allowed in outside dining areas or balconies.
What to Bring
With the Student
-
spending money
credit/debit cards
wallet/ID
passport
flight itinerary
e-ticket confirmation
list of important
phone numbers
In Carry-On Bag
-
photocopy of passport
all valuable items
light sweater or jacket
camera and film (extra camera batteries or
battery charger)
personal journal
one change of clothing
travel-sized toiletries
any medication
travel documents
glasses and sunglasses
reading materials/electronics for flights
pre-packaged food items
In Suitcase
- Light, adjustable layers clothing for professional,
business casual and casual (Students should
plan on wearing some of their outfits more than
once. The hotels usually have laundry/dry
cleaning service available.)
- 1-2 light sweater(s) or fleece jacket
- pajamas
- travel alarm clock
- electrical adapters / voltage converters
- rain jacket or umbrella
- first aid kit
- small packets of laundry detergent
- suntan lotion and hat
What NOT to Bring
-
fresh food items or nuts (check Customs regulations)
too many pairs of shoes (wear the heaviest shoes on the airplane so they don’t count towards their luggage weight)
heels are not recommended for women
any type of knife
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
CARRY-ON BAG
Not to exceed 11 pounds (approximately 20 Kgs) in weight and not to exceed 45 inches (155 cm.)
in total dimensions (length plus width plus height).
ONE BAG Not to exceed 44 pounds (approximately 20 kgs) in weight and not to exceed 62 inches
(155 cm.) in total dimensions.
CHECKED LUGGAGE
This is the maximum allowed so as to accommodate all luggage on internal transfers & therefore is
our limit, even though some airlines allow more on International flight segments. Scholars will be
responsible for paying excess baggage charges if applicable. Scholars are responsible for carrying
their own luggage. Restrictions on carry-on luggage are subject to change. Please check the U.S.
Transportation Security Administration’s website at www.tsa.gov.
Packing List for Study Abroad
The following is a checklist to help you pack. Please confirm with your program leader the appropriate items to take. This is a
comprehensive list for all program types.
Before You Go
____ Verify your international calling access on your personal cell phone with your provider.
____ Ensure your family members have all your transportation, accommodation, and contact information
____ Verify if you will have access to the Internet.
____ Bring a gift for your host family (if applicable).
____ Remember no liquids over 100 ml on the airplane and those must be in a zip lock bag.
____ Remember to wear socks to the airport because you will have to take off your shoes through security.
____ Check to find out the fee for checked baggage so you can plan accordingly. Fees are high these days!
____ Keep all of your important documents, some toiletries, and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag.
____ Inquire about any dress restrictions for women in the country, especially Muslim countries (remember
airport layovers too).
Important Travel Items
____ Airline tickets, hotel confirmations, itineraries, etc. (have an extra copy of these documents)
____ Insurance card and a copy
____ Valid passport and visa (make two photocopies of your passport; keep your passport in a secure location)
____ Second photo ID (driver's license, birth certificate copy) and an extra copy
____ Spending money (cash - have small bills for tips, traveler's checks, credit cards)
____ Bilingual dictionary
____ Travel guidebook for your destination
____ Orientation and course materials
____ Journal/notepad and pens
____ Reading materials, playing cards, travel board games for the airplane
____ iPod, MP3 player or other electronic devices for diversion
____ Camera/video camera, extra memory card, and charger or disposable camera
____ Backpack and fanny pack
____ Purse or wallet
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
____ Change holder
____ Small calculator to do currency conversions
____ Cell phone and charger
____ Alarm clock with batteries
____ Refillable water bottle
____ Electricity converter and adapters
Clothing
____ Hat (for sun protection)
____ Sunglasses
____ Appropriate outer wear:
o FALL/WINTER TRAVEL: coat, gloves, boots, hat, scarf
o SPRING/SUMMER TRAVEL: light jacket or sweat shirt
____ Appropriate clothing for the destination for each day of the trip (no military apparel!):
o FALL/WINTER TRAVEL: long johns, long pants, jeans, sweaters, turtlenecks (dress in layers)
o SPRING/SUMMER TRAVEL: jeans, shorts, dresses, skirts, tank tops, Polos, T-shirts
____ Sneakers, walking shoes, flip flops or sandals
____ Underwear (bring extra), undershirts, socks (bring extra)
____ Belt
____ Pajamas, robe, slippers
____ Workout clothes
____ Poncho/raincoat/small umbrella
____ Evening wear and shoes for any formal events
Toiletries and Medication
____ Toiletries bag (to carry items to and from the bathroom)
____ Toothpaste and toothbrush
____ Deodorant
____ Shaving items (cream, razors)
____ Feminine hygiene products
____ Skin moisturizer
____ Sunscreen
____ Make-up
____ Hair care products (shampoo, conditioner, gel, hair spray)
____ Hair care accessories (hair dryer, flat iron, curling iron, hair clips, Scrunchies)
____ Bath towel and wash cloth (light weight)
____ Body soap
____ Baby wipes (antiseptic)
____ Hand sanitizer
____ Tissues (small size to carry with you; not all bathrooms abroad have toilet paper)
____ Personal medications (pain reliever, Imodium/Pepto Bismol, Benedryl, Chapstick)
____ Prescriptions, medications, and asthma inhalers
____ Eyeglasses and/or contacts and solution
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
____ Nail clippers, tweezers
____ Bug repellant (Cutter's stick is least messy)
____ Contraceptives
Miscellaneous
____ Laptop and charger
____ family photos
____ Bathing suit and beach towel
____ Laundry bag for dirty clothes
____ Bed linens
____ Personal first aid items (band aids, Neosporin, anti-itch cream)
____ Strong flashlight and extra batteries
____ Mini battery-operated fan
____ Canteen or bottles for water/cup with lid
____ Earplugs
____ Sleeping bag
____ Clothes hangers
Do Not Take
 Fanny packs or purses that do not zip closed
 Expensive or expensive-looking jewelry
 Excess cash
 Credit/debit cards that you do not intend to use
 Anything irreplaceable
REMEMBER NOT TO
PUT ALL MY CASH IN
ONE PLACE AND TO
KEEP IT IN SECURE
LOCATIONS!!!!
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
PART 6: Cities, Culture, People, and Language
Panama City, Panama
Panama City was founded in 1519 by the Spanish governor Pedro
Arias de Avila (Pedrarias), and fast became a center of the
government and for the church. The city was attacked and destroyed
in 1671 by pirates, led by the English pirate Sir Henry Morgan,
leaving only the stone ruins of Panamá Viejo.
Reestablished three years later and about 8km southwest, in the
area now known as Casco Viejo, the city was well defended until
1746, when the Caribbean port at Portobelo was destroyed. This
damaged the Spanish land trade route that had been established.
Declining in importance, Panama City later returned to prominence in the 1850s when the Panama Railroad was completed,
and people took the train to California using that route, seeking their fortune in gold.
Panama declared its independence from Columbia on November 3, 1903 in the Parque de la Independencia, and Panama City
was firmly established as the capital of the new nation. Since the Panama Canal was completed in 1914, the city has emerged
as a center for international business and trade.
Today, Panama City is by far the wealthiest city in Central America, with an optimistic future. The Canal was handed over in
1999; later the American military bases in the country closed, meaning that Panama has control of its future. There has been
quite a bit of foreign investment in the country, and a recent referendum to expand the Canal means that the capital is likely to
continue to expand and grow.
Panamanian People & Culture
Panama currently has a population of just over 3.5 million people, 75% of which live in urban areas. The ethnic background of
Panamanians is varied: the “urban elite” is primarily Creole, mostly of Spanish descent. There are also populations of Spanish,
Italian, Greek, and Jewish origins. There is also a Chinese community, which has been in existence for quite a long time, as well
as a small Hindu community living in the capital, Panama City. The largest demographic group is the interioranos (meaning
"interior people"), who are classified as "Hispano-Indians." This group is a mixture of European and native American (mestizo);
its members consider themselves to be the “real Panamanians.”
Panamanians are formal and rather stiff when dealing with strangers. There
is a minimum of greeting behavior in public dealings and manners tend to be
stiff, without a lot of unnecessary pleasantries/small talk. It is fairly easy to be
included in the party-going network after one has been included in family and
friend gatherings. People tend to dress more formally, even with the tropical
climate.
The official language is Spanish, but English is used widely in business,
especially banking and tourism, and by some people of African descent.
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama
What Is Culture Shock?
When you’re abroad, the rules change. You will no doubt be affected by the language barrier. You will also be subjected to
differences in manners, beliefs, customs, laws, art, religion, values, concepts of self, family organization, social organization,
government, behavior, and other aspects of culture and society. Experiencing new cultures can be exciting, but it can also be
overwhelming causing anxiety and stress—in other words, culture shock.
Everyone experiences culture shock to a different degree. If you begin to
feel moody, depressed, angry, or anxious, keep in mind that these
feelings are a normal reaction to being immersed in a different culture.
Realizing that other students are probably experiencing the same thing
will help you avoid discouragement. While these feelings can become
daunting at times, the majority of students come away from their
experience abroad stronger and better adapted to handle future
challenges.
Culture shock has its ups and downs, good days and bad. When things
are going well, a student may feel comfortable, adjusted and relaxed.
When negative or stressful situations occur, a student often lapses into
feeling depressed, angry or frustrated. Even situations that at home will cause no or little stress can result in a high level of
anxiety abroad because you will be outside of your comfort zone. The rollercoaster of feelings is the natural progression of
working through culture shock. Each student will experience these ups and downs with different intensity and for different
lengths of time. The process is necessary in order to make the transition from one culture to another; it helps a student adjust to
the new social environment.
Here are the stages of culture shock:

Honeymoon Stage: You feel excited, euphoric, and optimistic about this new opportunity.

Negotiation Stage: At about three months, differences between the old and new culture become apparent. You may
feel overwhelmed by the new environment, unhappy, anxious, confused, or homesick.

Adjustment Stage: At 6-12 months, you may finally gain an understanding of the new culture, feel more comfortable,
and things become “normal” to you.

Mastery Stage: You can fully participate in the host culture.
When you are overseas, you may encounter some of the following:

Language Challenges: everyday interactions may become consuming, stressful, and frustrating

Societal Challenges: difficulties due to lack of familiarity with the systems (legal, financial, business, medical,
transportation); difficulties with finances and making ends meet; obvious or subtle discrimination
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MCB 2930: Health Education in Panama

Socio-Cultural Challenges: missing friends and family connections; not being able to connect with natives

Emotional Challenges: loneliness, anxiety, allergies, aches/pains, anger, disappointment, homesickness
All these feelings are NORMAL! Be sure to keep an eye out for eating disorders, disruptive behavior among students,
emotional breakdowns, etc.
Novelist Thomas Wolfe once put it, “You can’t go home again.”
Relieving Culture Shock
There is no cure for culture shock, but there are some steps you can take to reduce its severity.
Before leaving home…

Become familiar with the new culture, including social issues, politics, customs, geography, and history. The Internet,
guidebooks, people from the host country and program alumni can be a valuable source of information. There are a
number of websites dedicated to translating slang and phrasing. Watching recently released movies from the host
country can also help you learn the culture, even if you cannot understand the words.

Take advantage of our pre-departure materials. We put a great deal of time, research, and energy into preparing these
documents. Make sure to supplement the information in our guides with the information you get from other sources.
The more information and opinions you have, the better prepared you will be for dealing with culture shock.

Communicate with students who studied abroad in the host country. These students can be program alumni as well as
students on your campus that studied in the host country through a different program. Don’t be shy. Alumni can offer
firsthand advice on subjects that may be less accessible to study abroad coordinators. For example, nightlife, the
cheapest places to eat, etc.
Once you are in the host country…

Keep in regular contact with your family and friends. It will provide some level of consistency and comfort. Not only will
it help you deal with what’s going on abroad, it will also help you deal with re-entry shock when you return home.

Make friends quickly, and not just with Americans. Locals can help explain cultural practices and customs, help you
with the language, and introduce you to things that tourists never experience. You should also pay attention to your
viewpoints. Your new friends will formulate views of your country and culture based on their interaction with you. In
many ways, study abroad students are global ambassadors and foster cross-cultural understanding and a more
peaceful world. For this reason you should be responsible and proud of your role in the global community.

Keep a journal while you’re abroad. Writing in a journal is a great way to reflect on your experiences and find
differences and similarities in culture.
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Questions & Phrases in Spanish
ENGLISH
Hello!
Good morning
Good afternoon
Good evening
Good-bye
What is your name?
My name is…
Where are you from?
I’m from Orlando, Florida.
Please
Thank you
Your welcome
Do you speak English?
I’m sorry, I don’t speak Spanish.
SPANISH
Hola
Buenos días
Buenas tardes
Buenas noches
Adiós
¿Cómo se llama usted?
Me llamo…
¿De dónde es usted_
Yo soy de Orlando, Florida.
Por favor
Gracias
De nada
¿Habla usted ingles?
Lo siento, pero no hablo español.
Excuse me.
Pardon me.
Yes, please.
No, thank you.
Where is …?
the airport
the American Consulate
the American Embassy
the ATM
Con permiso
Perdon
Sí, por favor
No, gracias
¿Dónde está…?
el aeropuerto
el consulado americano
la embajada americana
la A-T-H (cajero automático)
the bank
the bus station
the emergency room
a free WiFi location
a grocery store
a hospital
the _____ hotel
the marketplace
the metro (subway)
a pharmacy
the police station
a post office
a restaurant
the restroom
a store
___ street
a taxi
the telephone
the train station
the university
el banco
la estación de autobus
la sala de emergencia
un local gratis de Internet
un supermercado
un hospital
el hotel ___
el mercado
el metro
una farmacia
la comisaría de policía
la oficina de correos
un restaurant
el servicio / el baño
una tienda
calle ___
un taxi
el teléfono
la estación de tren
la universidad
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION
OH-lah
BWAY-nohs DEE-ahs
BWAY-nahs TAHR-days
BWAY-nahs NO-chays
ah-dee-OHS
KOH-moh say YAH-mah oo-STED?
may YAH-moh…
day DOHN-day ehs oo-STED?
yo soy day Or-LAN-doh, Flor-EE-dah
pohr fa-BOHR
GRAH-see-ahs
day NAH-dah
AHB-lah oo-STED een-GLAYS?
low see-EHN-toh, PEH-roh no AHB-loh ehs-pahnYOHL
con pehr-MEE-soh
pehr-DOHN
see, pohr fa-BOHR
no, GRAH-see-ahs
DOHN-day eh-STAH…?
ehl ay-row-PWAIR-toh
ehl kon-soo-LAH-doh ah-mair-ee-KAH-noh
lah em-bah-HA-dah ah-mair-ee-KAH-noh
lah AH TAY AH-chay (kah-JAIR-oh ow-toh-MAHtee-koh
ehl BAHN-koh
lah ay-stah-see-OWN day ow-tow-BOOS
lah SAH-lah day ay-mair-HEN-see-ah
oon loh-KAHL GRAH-tees day EEN-tair-net
oon soo-pehr-mehr-KAH-doh
oon OHS-pee-tahl
ehl OH-tehl
ehl mair-KAH-doh
ehl MEH-troh
OO-na fahr-MAH-see-ah
lah koh-mee-SAHR-ee-ah day poh-lee-SEE-ah
lah oh-fee-SEE-nah day koh-RRRAY-ohs
oon rays-taw-RAHN-tay
ehl sehr-bee-see-OH / ehl BAHN-yoh
OO-nah tee-EHN-dah
KAH-yeah
oon TAH-see
ehl tay-LAY-foh-noh
lah ay-stah-see-OWN day trehn
lah oo-nee-bair-see-DAHD
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ENGLISH
Help!
I have an emergency.
I lost my luggage.
There is a fire!
I need…
an ambulance
a doctor / a nurse
a translator
some medicine
How much does it cost?
What is the exchange rate?
I don’t have any money.
What would you like to order?
I would like.…
a water
a soda
a coffee
a tea
SPANISH
¡Socorro!
Tengo una emergencia.
Perdí mi equipaje.
¡Hay un fuego!
Necesito…
una ambulancia
un medico / una enfermera
un traductor
alguna medicina
¿Cuánto cuesta?
¿Cuál es el tipo de cambio?
No tengo dinero.
¿Qué desea usted?
Me gustaría…
un agua
un refresco
un café
un té
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION
SOH-koh-rrrroh
TEHN-goh OO-na ay-mair-HEN-see-ah
pair-DEE mee ay-key-PAH-hay
ay oon FWAY-goh
neh-say-SEE-toh…
OO-nah ahm-boo-LAHN-see-ah
oon MEH-dee-koh
oon trah-dook-TOHR
ahl-GOO-nah meh-dee-SEE-nah
KWAN-toh KWEHS-tah?
kwahl ehs ehl TEE-poh day KAHM-bee-oh
no tehn-GOH dee-NAI-roh
kay day-SAY-ah oo-STEH?
may goos-tah-REE-ah…
oon AH-gwah
oon ray-FREHS-koh
oon kah-FAY
oon tay
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Diversity & Discrimination
The following is adapted from the Michigan State University literature on race and identity abroad.
Minority students are sometimes better prepared for culture shock because of their own experiences in the United States, but
discrimination in other countries can be even more overt than in the United States. No two students studying abroad ever have
quite the same experience, even in the same program and country. This same variety is true for those from U.S. minority ethnic
or racial backgrounds. Reports from past participants vary from those who felt exhilarated by being free of the American context
of race relations, to those who experienced different degrees of 'innocent' curiosity about their ethnicity, to those who felt they
met both familiar and new types of ostracism and prejudice and had to learn new coping strategies. Very few minority students
conclude that the racial or ethnic problems which can be encountered in other countries represent sufficient reasons for not
going. On the other hand, these students advise knowing what you are getting into and preparing yourself for it.
What you can do for yourself…
Voices of Change (VOC) is an organization dedicated to combating racism and discrimination for all students studying abroad.
The following is adapted from an article written by their founder. Read more about them at: www.globaled.us/safeti/
v1n2_sanders.html. Voices of Change (VOC) believes that all American students need to be informed about discrimination
outside of the United States but should not be discouraged about the prospect of studying abroad.
We encourage students to not allow an individual's ignorance to hinder their own progression and narrow their outlook while
traveling in another country. Studying abroad is a special opportunity to broaden one's horizons, gain new insight, and develop
a unique and more open-minded perspective of the world. To this end, we have also developed specific coping mechanisms
students can adopt should they be faced with an incident of racism/discrimination. We suggest students:

Maintain pride and self-confidence. Every student should maintain a strong sense of self. Being different is a powerful
strength!

Assert and address people tactfully. When faced with a negative and/or prejudice comment or action, attempt to
address the individual in a calm and civil manner. Explain that you did not understand what they meant or did not
appreciate their statement or behavior. We do warn students not to exercise this step if they feel the situation is
potentially threatening or dangerous! Also, language ability will naturally determine how well one can express that
he/she disapproves of what has been said and/or behavior that has been displayed.

Talk to your director, professors, counselors, etc. These individuals are available to help assist students and make
studying abroad an academically and personally enriching experience. Students who have experienced discrimination
should especially share their concerns with these individuals who can further assist them in the process of getting help.

Use your network of friends (new and old). Students can also discuss their difficulties with friends they have become
close with on their programs or contact friends at home. Having a support network is essential!

Talk with your host families or friends. The host family is an especially significant part of the student's overall cultural
experience abroad and is usually quite eager to assist students. They may also act as another source of support that
can be helpful, particularly if the student begins to feel negative about the society he or she is living in.
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Resources for Multicultural Students
Barker, J.M., Exum, H.A., et al. (1998). Impact of diasporic travel on the ethnic identity development of African American college
students. College Student Journal, 32 (3), 463.
Bond, D.G. (1988). Values clarification and international education: The Yonsei experience, Paper presented at the 29th
Annual Convention of the International Studies Association, St. Louis, MO. (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No.
ED 305 273).
Carew, J.G. (1993, January 6). Minority students abroad: An inspiring experience. The Chronicle of Higher Education, 39 (18),
B3.
Day-Vines, N.L. (1998, September). Study abroad: An investigation of the impact of African diasporic travel on the
psychosocial development of African American college sojourners. (Doctoral dissertation, North Carolina State
University, 1998). Dissertation Abstracts International, 59 (3), 734A
“The World is in Your Hands” Student Guide: http://www.ucis.pitt.edu/aie/resources/TWIIYH.pdf
“Diversity in Study Abroad”: http://www.brown.edu/Administration/OIP/pdf_docs/diversity_st_abroad01.pdf
“Students of Color and Study Abroad”: http://www.umabroad.umn.edu/ci/index.html
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PART 7: Healthcare Abroad
Stay Healthy!
Remember that air travel will expose you to LOTS of new germs! Read this
article from the New York Times about how NOT to get sick when traveling:
http://travel.nytimes.com/2011/03/06/travel/06prac-germs.html?_r=0. Here
are some additional tips to help keep you healthy:




Do not eat any meat from street vendors.
Drink bottled water.
Take vitamins.
Use hand sanitizer.
Dietary Concerns
Water: Tap water is safe to drink in Panama City and in most areas of the country. Bottled water may be purchased at most
restaurants and all convenience stores.
Food: The quality of food is very good and relatively inexpensive. Due to the diversity of the country, many types of cuisine –
all good and true to their roots – are available, including French, Japanese, Italian, Thai, Middle Eastern, and Chinese food.
Regional cuisine incorporates a variety of tropical fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Dining is generally casual and mealtimes tend
to follow that of the US, opening at 7:00 am for breakfast.
Restrictions: Dietary restrictions can be accommodated at finer restaurants; in addition, salads and local fruits are easy to
come by, so eating vegetarian should not be a problem.
Immunizations
Check with a physician/local public health department to see what immunizations are recommended. It is recommended that
you get a physical exam before departure if you have any health concerns.
Research/Contact: World Health Organization - www.who.int
Research/Contact: Center for Disease Control and Prevention - www.cdc.gov
Below is information from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) website detailing what vaccines and shots you will need to
protect yourself from diseases in Panama. We recommend that you read the full text on the CDC’s website, located here:
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/panama.
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For general information: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/study-abroad.aspx
A map to select specific country: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list.aspx
Panama Specific: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/panama
Panama is considered an intermediate risk area for diseases; the CDC recommends that all travelers be current on routine
immunizations and the following are recommended, as well, for most travelers:
 Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG).
 Typhoid Fever
For some travelers, the following vaccines are also recommended:
 Hepatitis B, if you might be exposed to blood (for example, health-care workers), have sexual contact with the local
population, stay longer than 6 months, or be exposed through medical treatment.
 Malaria – transmitted through mosquito bites.
 Rabies – found in bats and other mammals in Panama, but not in dogs; mainly in remote areas and dangerous mainly for
those who go to remote areas, enter caves, or work with wildlife.
 Yellow Fever – a risk in certain parts of Panama only.
 As needed, booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria, measles, and a one-time dose of polio vaccine for adults.
 **See your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for shots to take effect.**
Prescriptions
Contact the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) (www.tsa.gov) for restrictions. You should:
 carry extra medication than what is needed for the trip
 carry all medications in the original containers (prescriptions, over-the-counter and vitamins)
 pack all prescription medication in your carry-on luggage
 bring a doctor’s note if they have narcotics, syringes, inhalers, nebulizers or allergy
medication
 know the generic names of all medications
 bring an extra copy of a doctor’s prescription in case you need to refill a medication on the
trip or as back up if you lose your medication
Insurance Coverage
All short-term study abroad program participants are required to carry medical and trip insurance which the SAGE office
purchases or the program provider offers as part of their fee. The College currently uses CMI Insurance Worldwide:
http://www.cmi-insurance.com/. Students on short-term study abroad programs will have this cost built into their program fee. It
is your responsibility to review and know your
coverage, which includes: Trip Interruption, Trip
Trip Cancellation Insurance protects
Cancellation, Trip Cancellation Terrorism, Trip Delay,
students financially if they have to
Lost Baggage, Home Country Medical, Security
cancel or interrupt their study abroad
Evacuation, and Personal Liability. There is a $50
deductible on the insurance. Coverage does NOT
program for a major medical reason
include lost cash or items left on a bus, plane, or in
with proof from a doctor. Approval is
a hotel room. Be sure to protect your cash and
done through CMI and cannot be
guaranteed by the SAGE office.
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personal belongings. We have had multiple situations with students losing all of their cash.
You will be provided with a brochure prior to your program departure date. If you feel that you need additional coverage, you
can contact another insurance provider. It is recommended that you use the Property Document Form located on the SAGE
website (How to apply page) in the event that you need to make a claim.
Medical Treatment
ALWAYS inform your professor if you are not feeling well. Injuries and illness can occur while you are abroad, and it’s important
to be prepared. You should become familiar with your medical and travel insurance BEFORE leaving the USA. If you become ill
or injured while abroad, make sure to inform the KEI Onsite Director and your professor. Our Director will take you to a local
hospital for treatment. Should your illness or injury be serious, we will work with your family and insurance company to make
necessary arrangements for your evacuation and/or special services.
There are 24 hour pharmacies in Panama and others with regular hours, some which deliver to the US Consulate. You can
access a list with phone numbers and addresses using the embassy website:
http://panama.usembassy.gov/list_of_medical_providers.html. ALWAYS inform the professor of your need for pharmaceuticals.
Counseling Services
Valencia College wants to ensure that all students have an enriching and rewarding study abroad experience. However, should
a student have difficulty adjusting to the experience while overseas or upon returning home, he or she can contact Bay Care
Behavioral Health Student Assistance Program free of charge at 1-800-878-5470 24-hours a day. Free face-to-face counseling
is also available.
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PART 8: Safety & Emergency Preparedness
Your Safety
Your well-being and safety is our utmost concern. While no study abroad program can offer an absolute guarantee that students
will be completely safe at all times, there are many steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of becoming injured or a victim of
crime abroad. We encourage all students and their parents to read and understand the health and safety information available
on the Casterbridge Tours website: http://goeducationaltravel.com/collegestudy/students/safe-and-secure-travel/. Also, it is
VERY important to understand the risks of study abroad before you go. Take a few minutes to watch this very important safety
video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v =XgpYhz0awzo
Valencia’s Student Code of Conduct
All students must adhere to Valencia’s Student Code of Conduct while overseas: http://valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel
/policy/default.cfm?policyID=180&volumeID_1=8&navst=0.
Department of State Travel Warning
In the event that a travel warning is issued by the Department of State (http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html)
prior to travel, College administration will need to review the warning to determine if the program can run or should be
postponed, redirected, or cancelled. If a travel warning is issued when the program is already in the country, College
administration will need to review the warning to determine if the program can continue or should be cancelled.
Alcohol and Illegal Activities
A few words about alcohol, drugs, and dangerous behavior. The drinking age in
Panama is 18. Even if you are 18 or older, Valencia does not permit alcohol
consumption during the program. It is the policy of Casterbridge Tours and
Valencia Study Abroad and Global Experiences that alcohol consumption is NOT
permitted during the program. As a recipient of (SAGE) funding, you are not permitted
to consume alcohol at any time while abroad. Should the consumption of alcohol
result in property damage or bodily injury to yourself or another, you will be sent home
at your own expense, and your scholarship award will be revoked.
If you engage in illegal/criminal activity in another country, you are subject to the local
law, not the U.S. law. Some examples of misconduct or violation of laws of the host
country may include: any use of drugs or alcohol; disturbing the peace or disrupting the community; repeated failure to control
noise levels in student housing facilities; disruption of the academic environment of the program, including repeated failure to
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participate in class assignments or to attend mandatory excursions; academic misconduct, including plagiarism and cheating;
vandalism perpetrated against public or private property; and assault or sexual assault.
Do NOT, Do NOT, use illegal drugs!! Due to their long history of being used as a transcontinental shipping port for illegal
narcotics, Panama has earned an unfavorable reputation which they have tried hard to repair. Expect up to 15 years in prison
for illegal drug activity in Panama. If you are caught using illegal drugs and/or you engage in potentially dangerous behavior you
WILL be suspended from the program and sent home at your own expense and your scholarship will be revoked. We have very
strict policies about drug use and physical conflicts– it’s for your SAFETY. We take safety very seriously, and we expect you to
do the same.
Are you interested in seeing what happens to people who break the
law when overseas? Check out some of the episodes on “Locked Up
Abroad.” It will make you think twice! http://www.youtube.com/
playlist?list=PLWFMXMrxdrbEKu_nuEqKsLL8SQ_hbJ2hV
Safety Tips
Like most large cities, you should be alert at all times. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to use the following guidelines for
general safety precautions. What do criminals looks for?
- someone who looks weak or vulnerable
-
someone alone or who appears lost
-
someone who is not attentive to their surroundings
-
dark and remote locations
-
no witnesses
 ALWAYS use the buddy system when going out (3 + people).
 ALWAYS tell the program leader or another student where you are going.
 ALWAYS carry emergency telephone numbers and addresses with you.
 NEVER leave a friend behind alone at a bar or with a stranger.
 NEVER get into the car with a stranger.
 Be sure how to recognize law enforcement.
 Know how to signal for help.
 Be alert at all times.
 Learn a few phrases in the target language.
 Know how to use a pay phone and carry change.
 Learn the safe areas of the city and routes to walk.
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 NEVER carry all of your money in cash or expensive jewelry on you.
 Only walk on well-lit streets.
 Keep your valuable in a money belt. Wear your money belt around your waist underneath the clothing.
 Wear your backpack in the front, especially in crowded places.
 Leave your valuables, if you brought any with you, in a safe place.
 Do not change money on the street – use official exchange points only.
 Use ATMs during daylight hours and where plenty of people are visible. ATM machines attract thieves and pickpockets
who watch for tourists. Use an ATM inside a bank if possible.
 Be careful of cars; note the direction of traffic; not all countries yield to pedestrians.
 Look confident like you always know where you are and where you are going.
 Ask directions from someone in authority.
 If you are followed, go to a populated area and call for help.
 If you are threatened, attract attention, try to get away, and call for help.
 Wait for public transportation in well-lit areas.
 If you are alone, don’t sleep or become too involved in reading while traveling; always be aware of your surroundings.
 Beware of pickpockets in large crowds and on public transportation
 Often thieves will have accomplices who will:
-
jostle you
-
ask you for directions or the time
-
point to something spilled on your clothing
-
distract you by creating a disturbance
 If you are confronted, don’t fight back – give up your valuables.
 Avoid crowds and large gatherings.
 Do not tell strangers where you are staying.
 Understand the host country laws pertaining to alcohol, drugs, dress, appropriate behavior in public, etc.
In-Country Emergency Orientation
When you reach the country, your program leader should conduct an in-country emergency orientation session in order to point
out where to meet in the event of separation, how to get to the nearest embassy or consulate, how to call for the police, and
how to call for an ambulance.
In the Event of an Emergency
Contact MEDEX Emergency Response Center (24-hour access), by calling toll-free or collect using the phone number below or
by emailing operations @medexassist.com. MEDEX is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year to confirm your coverage and
give you access to the following services:
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24 hour MEDEX Emergency Response Center COLLECT 1 410 453 6330.
Coverage includes: location of medical providers, medical monitoring, emergency medical transport, repatriation of remains,
emergency reunion, trip interruption, replacement of medication, guarantee of payments and method of payment, travel and
communication assistance, transmission and retention of urgent messages, legal assistance.
IN ORDER FOR THE INSURANCE TO BE ACTIVATED, YOU MUST
CONTACT MEDEX IMMEDIATELY. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL YOU
RETURN TO THE UNITED STATES.
Emergency Contact Information
Emergency numbers in Panama:
These numbers can be dialed toll-free from any cell phone or pay phone.
Ambulance:
(Seguro Social)
229-1133
(Cruz Roja)
228-2187
Police
104 or 316-0080
Fire department
103
Directory Assistance
102
Operator
106
U.S. Embassy in Panama City, Panama
Avenida Demetrio Basilio Lakas, Building No.783 in the Clayton section of
Panama City
Telephone: 317-5000 or 317-5030 from Panama; (011) 507-317-5000 or (011)
507-317-5030 from the U.S.
Emergency after-hours telephone: 317-5000 from Panama; (011) 507-3175000 from the U.S.
Facsimile: 317-5568 or 317-5303 from Panama; (011) 507-317-5568 or (011)
507-317-5303 from the U.S.
http://panama.usembassy.gov/
Worldstrides Tours contact in
Panama:
Onsite Director
Panama City, Panama
danieleka@club-internet.fr
+33 620332149 (mobile)
Services of the Embassy:




Absentee Ballots
Arrest of a U.S. Citizen
Financial Assistance
Locating someone in an
emergency
 Legal Assistance
 Lost or Stolen Passports
 Medical Assistance
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Parents & Friends
Stay in touch with parents and friends. While your parents may be excited for you, they are undoubtedly concerned about your
safety and health. A few emails/calls per week will go a long way to relieving their anxiety and helping you deal with re-entry
shock. Make sure to write down and take with you the following numbers:
Parents’ Home Tel:
______________________________
Parents’ Work Tel:
______________________________
Parents’ Mobile:
______________________________
Neighbor’s Tel:
______________________________
(in case of an emergency)
Relative’s Tel:
______________________________
(in case of an emergency)
PART 9: Upon Your Return
Reverse Culture Shock
Reverse culture shock, also referred to as re-entry shock, is the shock of being home after an extended period abroad. It is a
feeling of unfamiliarity in places that should be familiar; a feeling of discomfort with people who are close to you; or a feeling of
inadequacy when dealing with common situations. Simply put, re-entry shock is feeling like you are almost home.
Often, re-entry shock can be far worse than the culture shock you experience abroad. When you are abroad, you expect to feel
foreign. Coming home, you expect to feel safe and familiar. However, things are not the same. You have grown as a person,
your views have changed, and your outlook on life has been reshaped by your experiences. You also find that your family and
friends have changed; you missed important events at home and on campus; and others have taken your place in clubs and
social groups. Even the political and social climate of your home country may have undergone changes.
When this shock does occur, as it does for most in some form or another, it can make you feel extremely unsettled, isolated,
insecure and alone. It can spark an emotional chain of reactions, ranging from disengagement to euphoria to alienation, and
gradually, to readjustment. Like culture shock, it has a cycle which must be worked through. Re-entry shock can last mere
weeks, or may stretch for months, even years.
The key to minimizing re-entry shock is acknowledging its existence, and realizing that there may be frustrations with
readjusting to life in your home country. These frustrations are a normal part of your study abroad experience. Many of the
things that will help you reduce culture shock can also help relieve re-entry shock. Staying in touch with family, friends and
current events while abroad will go a long way to helping you readjust when you return home.
Program Close-Out Process
A condition of the scholarship you received is to complete the close-out process within two weeks of your return. You must:
1. Complete the online SAGE program evaluation.
2. Write a thank you card to your donor addressed to: My Esteemed Valencia Donor.
3. Upload your photos to the SAGE Flickr account. Ask your program leader for details.
Also, please consider doing the following:
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
post photos and something about your experience to the Valencia SAGE Facebook group:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/valenciastudyabroad/

share some of your photos with us at the end of your trip on the SAGE Flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/valencia_sage/ (your program leader has the instructions and login information)
HAVE AN AMAZING JOURNEY AND BE SAFE!
From the SAGE Office
PART 10: RESOURCES
Local Newspapers:
La Prensa (the main daily newspaper) (best for event listings)
La Panamá
América
Crítica Libre
El Universal
La Estrella
Panama Visitor (Spanish and English) – free, bi-monthly publication for tourists
Miami Herald – sold in supermarkets (English)
Online Newspapers:
English Language Panama News
English Language News
Useful Websites and Resources:
U.S. Dept. of State travel website
Panama Weather Guide website
Travel Advice
General and Travel Information
Frommer’s Travel Website
Cultural Information
www.thepanamanews.com
http://www.newsroompanama.com/index.php
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_994.html
http://www.panama.climatemps.com/
www.tripadvisor.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_City
http://www.frommers.com/destinations/panama/3285020157.html
http://www.everyculture.com/No-Sa/Panama.html