The Beyond Borders program is an international service-learning program in Peru and Uganda where you can encounter new people and vibrant cultures. You will discover alternative perspectives, realities, and ways of life that will change how you see this part of the world. This program is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching. It will push you outside of your comfort zone and teach you how to build community, practice team building and expand your understanding of what the dignity for all people truly means. You will be fully immersed in the development and social justice issues within these communities and witness them first-hand.
Our partners:
Our partners Petryky (Ukraine) and Companeros Inc (Nicaragua) have currently paused their operations until further notice. St. Jerome’s University remains in contact with both organizations, and we look forward to resuming our partnership and student learning opportunities in the future.
Program requirements and dates
This service-learning opportunity is structured with the following dates and requirements.
| Program Requirements | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | September 4, 2024 |
| Applications close | October 28, 2024 |
| Orientation day | December 4, 2024 |
| Religious Studies course (RS383) | January to April 2025 |
| Reading Week retreat | February 20 to 22, 2025 |
| Pre-departure day | April 7, 2025 |
| 3-month international experience | May to August 2025 |
| Reflection day | September 2025 (dates to be determined) |
Eligibility and cost
- All University of Waterloo students from any faculty are encouraged to participate in the program and will go through an interview process before being accepted into the program.
- The total cost to students for the Beyond Borders program is $6,500 (includes flights, transportation in placement country, placement fees, and accommodations)
- Meal coverage varies for each placement
- Additional costs to be covered by participant:
- Police records check for local volunteering
- Immunization fees (costs vary depending on the country)
- Health consultation fees prior to travelling
- Travel health insurance
- Passport renewal fees
- Immigration documents and necessary visas (dependent on placement)
- Any travel supplies students would need (i.e.pa luggage, clothing, water sanitation tablets, hygiene products, gear, etc.)
- Baggage fees not covered by the airline
- In-country ground transportation (e.g. daily public transportation to-and-from placement)
- Personal communication expenses (phone/internet)
- Some meals (depending on the host arrangement)
- Any extra-curricular activities students engage in on their own time
