Partnership Jamaica

Fundraisers are not organized by our department.  Therefore, it is up to each individual to identify the needed funds to pay for the trip.  We are happy to help students brainstorm ideas.

We provide an updated packing list for students at the pre-trip meeting.  A list of suggested items include:

• Shirts – Bring up to ~five short-sleeved/sleeveless or extremely breathe-able long-sleeved shirts (possible evenings).  Sleeveless is fine, but avoid anything too revealing.  We highly encourage wearing your Bronco gear!
• Sweater/Sweatshirt – You’ll want something warm to wear when it cools off at night (it won’t be too cold, but sometime the breeze off of the ocean could make things a little cooler).
• Pants – Lightweight material is best (those that you wear while traveling will suffice)
• Shorts – Pack several pair to work in and others for touring.  Avoid shorts that are too short.
• Underwear, and Socks – You definitely don’t want to forget these!
• Two Pairs of Shoes – One pair of close-toed sneakers for the worksite and one pair of comfortable sandals. Worksite shoes can be donated and left at our final site (optional).
• Jacket – Bring a light and water-resistant windbreaker with a hood in case of rain.  This also comes in handy on cool airplanes.
• Swimsuit – You will have a couple of opportunities to go swimming.
• A hat and/or bandana/handkerchief – To keep the sun off your head or your hair out of your face while you’re working.
• Towel – to be used at the beach/between sites. Hotel towels should not leave the hotel.
• Documents and Photocopies – Bring your passport, driver’s license, student ID, etc. Photocopies can help you get replacements if the originals are lost or stolen.
• Work Gloves – We will provide some. But, bring your own if you prefer.
• Sunscreen– Bring at least SPF 30.  The sun is far more intense in Jamaica than in Idaho. Keep it 3oz or less/bottle for carry-on purposes. We will have larger bottles for the group.
• Bug repellent – Keep it 3oz or less. The formulas containing DEET are the best.  We will have larger aerosol sprays for the group.
• Money Belt –(optional) helpful for keeping your most important items (driver’s license, passport, credit card, cash, etc.) safe, especially during transit.
• Prescription or General Medicine – Keep in original containers and pack in carry-on bag in case checked bag is delayed or lost. Ibuprofen and Benadryl are always a good idea.
• Extra Eyeglasses, Contact Lenses and Prescriptions – if needed
• Toiletries Kit – All liquids must be in containers of 3 ounces or less and inside a quart-sized zip-lock bag. Toothbrush, deodorant, hygiene needs, etc.
• Journal and Pen – We will provide reflection journals, but bring a pen!
• Small Daypack – To carry your sunscreen, lunch, water bottle etc. to the work sites.
• Camera – Don’t forget extra batteries and/or a charger. Avoid carrying it in a fancy bag or case that might draw attention to it.
• Zip-lock Bags – Helpful for carrying your 3 oz. liquids.
• Plastic Grocery Bags- to put swimsuits and dirty shoes/clothes in when you return.
• Two Water Bottles – anything reusable.
• Earplugs – If night noise bothers you.
• Sunglasses – Cheap ones (think Target or Marshalls)
• Small flashlight or headlamp – (optional)
• Extra Boise State t-shirts – to be donated to the local schools
• Deflated soccer balls, soccer shoes for kids 6-13 years, new or used books for ages 3-6, DVDs for kids – to be donated to the schools we visit, pack as many can fit in your bag if you are interested! Used items welcomed!
• Travel locks – Warning: The Transportation and Security Administration (TSA) is advising travelers not to lock their luggage when flying to and from North America.  They will cut your locks off if they need to search your bag.  You can purchase special TSA-approved locks at most travel stores.  These have a red diamond on them identifying them as TSA approved. This allows TSA to open your luggage without cutting the locks.

We expect participants to:

• Articulate their role in addressing social problems
• Identify key issues associated with globalization
• Identify root causes of social issues
• Prioritize the greater community in personal decision-making
• By integrating these experiences, we hope to guide participants toward active citizenship and civic responsibility.

Students chosen to participate in Partnership Jamaica will attend mandatory pre-trip sessions, which will provide information necessary to better prepare for traveling internationally, as well as staying on the island of Jamaica.

If participants do not have them already, they will need to obtain a valid passport for international travel.  The office of Global Learning Opportunities on campus can assist with this process.

Most cellular plans do not include international calls.  Check with your cell phone provider for details abour your specific plan, but  we encourage students to take advantage of such an incredible learning experience and “unplug” as much as possible.  Wifi is occasionally available, but not reliable.