I chose this program because I love biology and what better place to study it than the Galapagos Islands. Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection and evolution originated there and evolution is covered in the grade 11 bio course. In addition I had previously travelled with Blyth and I was wanting to travel with them again. So when I heard that grade 11 biology can be studied in the Amazon and Galapagos, I jumped on the opportunity, as I understood that it would be a once and lifetime opportunity.
Alumni Spotlight: Mara Mark
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Mara is a Blyth Representative, having travelled with Blyth International Summers twice. She is currently in grade 11 and attends Abbey Park High School.
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
My program provider managed the hotels, breakfast, dinner, included excursions, flights, itinerary, transportation and tour guides. So, the students and teachers didn't have much to organize. The teachers had to organize the lesson plans, classes and course materials, but they didn't have to worry about anything else besides their packing. Students only had to prepare for the course and trip (packing).
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
One piece of advice I would give is bring a travel journal with you. You will want to remember this trip for the rest of your life. So recording your daily experiences and most memorable moments will allow you to reflect on your amazing trip in 10 years or so. The experiences you will have may only happen once it your life, hence why would you want to forget them.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
An average day looks like; wake up around 7-8, eat breakfast around 8-9, class time for a couple hours, lunch time, fun activity/excursion, free time, dinner, signing out, bed time. Lunch was not included, so everyday my friends and I went to various restaurants to try the local food. It was very nice, because I love to experiences different cultures, whether it is through the eyes or the mouth.
During free time we could explore the city in groups of four, study or ask your teacher questions. Signing out means, going out with your friends in minimum groups of four after dinner to explore the area. I love this because I feel restricted to what I can do when I am in a large group, so this allowed me to see and do what my friends and I wanted.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
My biggest fear was getting sick, as in the Amazon there are many life threatening viruses. However, I kept telling myself that I am protected from by bug spray and all the required shots and medications. In addition, I found out that the areas infested by insects has drastically decreased. Overtime I stopped worrying about it as much to allow myself to enjoy my time there.
What was the most challenging part of the trip?
Traveling alone may seem scary or worrisome, but you are not alone on the trip. There are teachers, students and a program organizer there with you 24/7. If you ever need assistance, there are many people that can help you. In addition try and get to know everyone on the trip, because once you do, you will feel like one big family and that is one of the best feelings. The students on the trip may end up being your life long friends.