Apply to Participate
Important June 2014 Trip Information:
- Application due date is December 31, 2013.
- We will schedule interviews the week of January 13, 2014 and acceptance letters will be emailed by the end of January.
- There are approximately 10 undergraduate, 3 graduate/NP and 2 doctoral slots available. This year we are also working with EHS to accommodate EHS students.
- The number of non-student slots depends on the number of students who apply and the specialty medical needs of the team.
- Travel dates: tentatively mid-June through end of June 2014. Usual time is two weeks; leaving on Saturday week one and returning Sunday week 2.
- Student applicants: Preference will be given to students who have completed (or will complete prior to travel) NU 226 Fundamentals, NU 314 Adult Health I, and NU 344/644 Global Health Perspectives: Exploring the Intersection of Equity, Economics and Culture. Interested EHS students should discuss with the EHS Undergraduate Program Director.
- Student travelers are responsible for their own airfare. (approximately $2,000) A deposit of $500 is due at the time students are accepted for the trip, and the remaining balance is due when the tickets are purchased. We hope to have a few partial scholarships, the number and amount of scholarships is dependent on trip related fundraising.
- Non-student team members are responsible for airfare, accommodations and in-country transportation costs. (Approximately $2,750.00) A deposit of $500 is due at the time travelers are accepted for the trip and the remaining balance is due when the tickets are purchased.
- You must have a current passport as of April 1, 2014 which will not expire within 6 months of travel and you must have completed your immunizations by May 1, 2014.
- Students with a foreign passport must work with the Heart and Sole administrative team as soon as they are accepted to obtain a travel visa from the Kenyan Embassy in Washington DC.
- Students with a US passport will obtain their visa at the airport in Kenya. DO NOT seek a visa independently.
- Accommodations are modest but clean, screening locations are rural, and travel conditions are strenuous.
- Participation in the project is a year-long commitment. If selected to be a team member you must commit to attending ALL orientations/trainings, and participate in fundraising. Expectations for each team member:
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- Every team member is expected to raise $500 which will be used to purchase medical supplies and medication and offset in-country travel/accommodations.
- Team members are expected to participate in 2 fundraising events.
- Orientation: Sunday February 9, 2014
- Training Session: Saturday April 26, 2014
- Packing/supply session: Wednesday May 28, 2014
- One post-travel meeting within 3 weeks of returning to the US. Date to be determined.
What can you expect if you participate?
Hard work, long days, lost sleep, financial sacrifice, and a totally awesome, life-changing experience. To understand this paradox a bit better – and understand what you are getting yourself into – please read the stories of past trips and student reflections posted in this website.
What makes for a highly effective volunteer?
As a volunteer you bring enthusiasm, knowledge, skills and most of all your humanity. Studies have identified several core human traits that are essential to being an effective volunteer; flexibility, patience, openness, inventiveness and integrity.
If after browsing the website you have additional questions, please feel free to contact Jacob Kariuki. If you are an EHS student and have questions, please contact Undergraduate Program Director Dana Commesso.