Frequently Asked Questions
The Program
Funding
Selection Process
Definitions
Costa Rica
This project is funded by Global Skills Opportunity, the Government of Canada’s Outbound Mobility Program.
The Program
What is the difference between this program and a course taken at Algonquin College?
- You are completing a General Elective Credit that includes an 8-day trip to Costa Rica.
- Global learning outcomes. Students will engage with global perspectives and develop intercultural skills, learning how to be flexible and adaptable while working across learning environments, and perspectives.
Funding
Will being a recipient of the Global Skills Mobility funding affect my eligibility for other funding?
Grant funding received through Global Skills Opportunity WILL NOT have an impact on a student’s eligibility to Canada Student Loans or Grant but you should consult with your other funders if you be receiving additional financial support through bursaries, sponsorship, or other programs.
How will the funding I receive be used?
All students accepted into the program will have their program fees (inclusions outlined above), flights and travel insurance included.
Selection Process
Why are you asking me to identify if I belong to certain demographic groups?
As per the Global Skills Opportunity guidelines, participants who identify with one of three defined demographic groups are eligible to receive a larger sum of funding for their experience.
How are students selected?
Applications are reviewed by Algonquin College’s Global Skills Opportunity Selection Committee. Students must submit all application requirements to be considered. Government of Canada funding requires that priority be given to students who identify in one of the three defined groups: student of Indigenous descent; student with a disability; student who requires financial aid.
Definitions
What is the definition of a student in financial need?
A student who reports to be in receipt of Canada Student Grants, or similar non-repayable student financial assistance offered by provinces and territories, or, in the absence of receiving non-repayable student financial assistance, can provide information to demonstrate that they require financial support in order to participate in the Global Skills Opportunity.
What is the definition of a learner with a disability?
Students who report to have a difficulty or impairment due to a long-term condition or health problem and/or experience a limitation in their daily activities.
What is the definition of an Indigenous student?
A student who reports being an Indigenous person, that is First Nations, Métis, or Inuk (Inuit).
Costa Rica
How many supervisors travel to Cost Rica?
Generally, there is a ratio of 1 Algonquin College faculty member to 10 students, however, there are also a number of Costa Rican guides/hosts who accompany the group the entire time while in-country. The guides/hosts are members of our in-country service providers.</p?>
How long does is the flight?
Flight time is 6 hours. Travel time in Costa Rica happens on a coach bus and varies from half-hour bouts to 3-hour drives in order to reach certain destinations. Highway and road infrastructure is much different in Costa Rica than in Canada and a short distance can take a while to complete.
What is the weather like in Costa Rica?
For the time of year that this trip departs, the weather can be rather hot and humid. Once a garment is wet, it is unlikely for it dry. Evenings in at the rainforest lodge tend to cool off a little.
What is the food like?
The food is great. Lots of fresh fruit (pineapple, watermelon, and cantaloupe). Main course meals are similar to what we might have, just add-on some rice and beans (gallo pinto) to every meal.
Who do I notify about personal medical issues/allergies?
Cam Dube, the course leader for ENV0003 must be notified immediately of all medical issues so that proper measures can be arranged before you leave and while in Costa Rica.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Rainforest & Tropical Science General Elective Course, Algonquin College No, English is very prominent in Costa Rica however, being able to speak a few of the basics (hello, thank you, nice to meet you and my name is) can be very helpful and respectful.
Is it safe where we will be?
The regions where we will be travelling and places that we stay are historically, low-risk areas, and well-supervised.
Are there any snakes?
You bet there are! There are also lots of interesting birds, insects, animals and amphibians in Costa Rica. Check out the photo gallery link to see what you might run into in the rainforest.