South Caicos: An Amazing and Unforgettable Experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I found the workload challenging, but not overwhelming. I feel that I learned a lot and found the material interesting and engaging. I loved the fact that I was able to go out and see everything I was learning about in person - we snorkeled every single day in different areas around the island, each one more stunning than the last. I learned as much from our classes as I did from doing things in the field.

On-site administration of your program

All the staff on site were very helpful and friendly. The professors were very knowledgeable about their subject areas for the most part, with a few exceptions when it came to the host culture. All the professors were American (or from elsewhere) and had lived in the host country for 0-2 years. It may have been helpful for them to have been given a more thorough background on the local history prior to the program so that they could incorporate it better into the curriculum. However, I would definitely recommend the program from an academic standpoint. Looking back at all the things I learned, I am impressed.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We lived at the SFS field station on the coast of South Caicos, right on the edge of town. Everything in town is within easy walking distance, but transportation to farther locations (certain beaches and snorkel sites) was limited to class trips. Bikes and non-SFS vehicles were off limits. Most necessities were provided for us, including food and water. I was satisfied with the living situation, with the understanding that it was a field station with limited resources.

Food at the center was imported from Sysco, so it was essentially cafeteria food. The cooks on site do a great job providing us with a variety of foods, but it does get old after a while. There are a couple of stores and a restaurant/bar in town however, so students can easily buy snacks or go out for a fresh seafood dinner. Try the jerk chicken, it is delicious!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The staff at the center do a lot to keep students busy outside of class. We had twice weekly recreational snorkels/dives to a lot of beautiful areas around the island, as well as movie nights, game nights, etc. Sundays are free to do whatever you like, such as walk to the beach or go to the nearby hotel for some french fries or ice cream. Despite the small size of the island, I never got bored.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Healthcare on the island is limited to a small clinic. A few of the students in my program went there with minor cuts or injuries. However, for anything serious you will have to fly to the nearby island of Providenciales, or to Miami. However, the staff is wilderness first aid certified, and we were all made aware of any safety issues in the field or in town. The town was very safe in my perception, though in any unfamiliar place it is important not to take unnecessary risks. The only vaccination I needed to get was for Hepatitis.

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

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• Other

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• Americans