Languages & Cultures
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have to enroll in any courses at MSUM or pay Tuition at MSUM?
Yes. You will have to enroll in a one-credit course Spring 2006. This course serves as an orientation for the trip and helps me get materials and information to students without having to organize a meeting every time I want to talk about something.
Do I have to tell my parents?
Yes. You need to tell someone you are going down to Mexico. If your parents are not living, you need to inform the next closest relative. Besides, I need to have an emergency contact in the United States just in case.
Isn't Mexico City dangerous?
Yes. Mexico City is dangerous especially to people who don't know Spanish or know what they're doing. First, we will not be living in Mexico City, but Cuernavaca, about 1.5 hours from Mexico City. We will only go there once as a group (besides flying in and out) and we will be accompanied by competent and experienced personnel from the University in addition to myself. Don't walk around at night nor stroll through neighborhoods that are even remotely near a problem area. If you have further questions, please feel free to contact me at: smithbe@mnstate.edu or (218) 477-4267.
Do I need to get any shots to go to Mexico?
At this point, there are no shots required for where we are going in Mexico, however, I strongly recommend that all participants in the program have their TETANUS shot updated, even if they received one within the last ten years.
Are there any medications or pills that I should take with me?
Inevitably, despite our best attempts to avoid getting sick by drinking bottled water and not eating on the street, etc, there are some bugs that make their way into our system. I have been told that the best way to keep your stomach stable is to take Acidophilus once a day for two weeks before you leave and then one pill before every meal while you are there. According to all the old wives tales, this will help the good bacteria fight off the bad bacteria and keep your stomach in check. It doesn't hurt to pack a bottle of Pepto Bismol either and have that on hand with your stomach starts talking back to you.
What about the food in Mexico? Do people eat rice and beans every day?
Actually, they do eat a lot of rice and beans and tortillas -- and as long as you make sure to eat the fruit (Mango and Papaya) served with it, your stomach will really do well. The families there do a great job of cooking delicious and healthy food. You will find yourself missing it when you return. If you are uncomfortable with a rare or exotic dish, you can excuse yourself and ask for something else and they won't be offended.