Summer in Belize with Friends for Conservation and Development Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It was very educational, but I feel that it should have been a little bit more hands on. However, it must be taken into consideration that this is a fairly new program and they are still learning about internships themselves.

On-site administration of your program

I give Friends for Conservation Development a high rating for administration because of their dedication to success, whether it be their own or that of the student. They expect formalized reports to keep your progress in check as well as theirs. This guarantees each will reach their goals.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with a host family in the village and I was welcomed in as if I had always been there. The home was a basic concrete house with running water and all modern facilities. I was given my own room that was able to be secured, but there was never a need to do so.

I ate plenty of rice and beans while there, but discovered a wide range of other delicious cuisines. Due to the wide variety of cultures in Belize, a wide spectrum of dishes are available for you to try. There is plenty of fresh seafood along the coastal areas as well as Chinese, East Indian, Garifuna, Mayan, and Mestizo. My personal favorites would include fryjacks, johnny cakes, tortillas, stew beans, and their Bar-B-Que chicken. If your looking for a particular type of food ask the locals, they'll be happy to point you in the right direction.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I had a great time partaking in community events and getting to know the other people in the village. It had the feel of one large extended family and I really loved that.There are always plenty of fiesta's and other festival's going on that you can go to and they are all a lot of fun. I also enjoyed visiting different communitys to see the differences between the cultures in Belize.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

My student health center at NMSU was very helpful and educational about the precautions I should take before and while in the Country. I felt relatively safe while there, you have to be careful just as you would be back home. As long as you try not to draw unwanted attention and travel with a friend you should be just fine.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)