FAQs

What Photography equipment do I need?

" You will need a basic digital SLR camera that is capable of shooting in RAW format. We do not require a specific camera model, however we recommend that your camera be able save an image larger than 6 megapixels. You are not required to have a computer, but most students will bring their own computer. If you do not bring your own, you will be able to share access on our Broadreach computers. Besides a digital SLR camera and a computer, you will also need a few other items like jump drives and spare memory cards. Once you enroll you will receive a detailed packing list that explains all the equipment needed for the course. "

How are the academics structured on this course?

In the beginning of the trip, we will focus on learning how to use the camera as a tool. Lectures and assignments will explore camera settings and basic composition techniques. A large component of the course is giving and receiving feedback about photographs. Class discussions will help us refine our abilities, but there are also required written essays and critiques. We will learn the basics of photo editing using Photoshop and it will be expected that all students produce higher quality photos as the trip progresses. The final portfolio project will challenge you to create, assemble and submit a collection of finished photographs.

Why are there optional activities?

The purpose of this course is to provide practical experiences photographing a variety of subjects in diverse locations. The adventure activities are designed to augment the aspects of traveling through Panama. Rock climbing, surfing, and snorkeling adventures will provide the opportunity to relax and have fun and create an interesting context to test your photographic skills.

Am I required to know how to speak and understand Spanish on this trip?

No, you are not required to know Spanish. However, it is very helpful to have a basic Spanish speaking ability when traveling in Panama. We will learn a few basic conversational Spanish skills during the trip, but you will not be required to communicate in Spanish.

Where do we sleep?

We stay in a variety of accommodations. Small guest houses and eco-lodges with beds and showers are provided almost everywhere. The only exception is an overnight camping trip to the island paradise of Isla de Coiba. Accommodations are not rustic and are designed to provide the optimal environment for learning photography.

What do we eat?

The food on this trip is fantastic. Panamanian cuisine is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American and South American styles. Typical breakfast includes cereal, eggs, toast, and fruit. Typical lunches and dinners are sandwiches, beans, rice, pastas, meats and vegetables. Vegetarians will find plenty to eat.

How many credits do I receive on this program?

Three college arts and photography credits from Lesley University.

How am I evaluated on this course?

A midterm, portfolio photo assignments, critiques and short essays.

Can high school students earn academic credit?

Many of our high school programs offer students the chance to earn academic credit which can be transferred back to their high school. After the course, you will receive a transcript as well as a letter detailing the course curriculum for your high school administrator. Most schools accept the credit after reviewing this course packet. Each academic institution has its own requirements, however, so we can't guarantee your school will accept the credit. We recommend asking for approval from your school administrator prior to program. You can also earn college credit for many courses through Lesley University for an additional fee. To learn more about the academic credit options, call us at 919-256-8200.

Can college students earn transfer college credit?

Yes. All Broadreach College study abroad programs offer 1-3 transfer credits through Lesley University. The cost of the transfer credit is included in the price of every college program. Broadreach College works with your study abroad office to ensure a smooth course credit transfer before your final acceptance. At the completion of each course, students receive their grades from Broadreach College. Lesley University will provide course credit hour transcripts. To learn more about receiving transfer college credit, call us at 919-256-8200.

Can I call home?

Of course! Depending on the itinerary of the program, most participants have the opportunity to call home about once a week. Most families also follow our trip journal updates which are short group updates written by teens or staff.

Do most participants come with friends? What if I don't know anyone?

Actually, most participants come alone, so there is no need to be concerned! It's normal to be apprehensive about not knowing anyone, but within a day of starting your program you'll be laughing and sharing exciting adventures with new friends.

I'm nervous about traveling alone! Is travel day difficult?

Travel day is generally easy and problem-free. After years of practice we have discovered ways to make this day run smoothly for everyone. The questions and answers in this section should put to rest most of your concerns about traveling to your Broadreach program.

What if I've never done this kind of thing before?

No worries. Many of our participants are 'first-timers' who have never been scuba diving or slept in the wilderness for more than a weekend. All we ask is that you come with an open mind, a desire to try new things and be ready to have lots of fun.

What is the male/female ratio?

Our ideal ratio for every program is 50/50 and we try to come close to just that. Some courses tend to attract more males than females, or vice versa, but typically the balance is close to even and not a concern. In our experience, the gender ratio plays a small role in the success of each program.

How do your programs compare with other teen educational travel programs?

Put simply, no other program can boast the same combination of small groups, diverse cultural experiences, life-long skill building, hands-on education and outdoor adventure. Unlike teen tours with set schedules and activities, Broadreach programs are flexible and involve you in all aspects of the experience. You are asked to take responsibility and few things are done for you. We have specific goals, but how the adventure unfolds depends on you and your group. We need everyone's participation, cooperation and leadership to make it happen.

Do I need trip, travel or medical insurance ?

All participants on Broadreach programs are required medical insurance including coverage for international medical care. Since many personal medical policies do not cover international medical care and evacuations or have exclusions for certain sports, we have partnered with Trip Mate to offer a choice of travel insurance plans for our participants.
The minimum required policy includes coverage for medical care, emergency evacuation, lost or damaged luggage, travel delay, etc.
Most families also take advantage of our recommended tuition protection coverage , which offers 75% tuition refund FOR ANY REASON up to 72 hours before your trip departure and 100% tuition refund if you cancel for a covered reason.

Can I call home while I am on a Broadreach program?

Of course! Depending on the itinerary of the program, most participants have the opportunity to call home about once a week. Most families also follow our online trip updates which are short blog entries written by program participants or staff during the trip.

Do you have any family discounts?

We do. We will give a 5% discount on the second (and any subsequent) enrollment in one summer. This offer is available to an individual student, or siblings. The 5% discount will be applied to the program of lesser cost, and cannot be combined with any other discounts.

Can you give me the names of other families in my area that have done Broadreach?

Absolutely. Just call the office and we can put you in touch with past participants who have done the trips that interest you. Broadreachers past and present are part of a strong community that’s always there for one another. No need to be shy either, people will be glad to hear from you.

Do most participants come alone or with friends?

Most participants come alone, so there is no need to be concerned if you don't know anyone else on your program. It's normal to be apprehensive about not knowing anyone, but within a day of starting your program you'll be laughing and sharing exciting adventures with new friends.

I've never done this type of trip before. Is any experience required?

Don't worry! Many of our participants are 'first-timers' who have never been scuba diving or slept in the wilderness for more than a weekend. All we ask is that you come with an open mind, a desire to try new things and be ready to have lots of fun.

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Please feel free to call the Broadreach office if you have any questions or would like to discuss our adventures. We’d love to talk to you! You can also email us at questions@gobroadreach.com

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• USA

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