Preparing to Study Abroad
Mexico
Summer 2015
Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
A Welcome from Mérida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Section I: Institute for Study Abroad Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Section II: Academics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Section III: Finances
Program Fees and Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Managing Money . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Cost of Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Section IV: Getting Ready to Leave
Official Travel Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Insurance and Health Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Packing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Section V: Living Abroad
Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Telephones and Mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Legal Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Safety Abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Emergencies Abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Student Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Culture Shock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Solving Problems Abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Appendix I: Information Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Appendix II: Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Appendix III: About Us
Institute for Study Abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Butler University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
IFSA-Butler Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Emergencies Abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .inside back cover
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Introduction
Welcome to our summer study abroad programs in Mexico! We’ve designed this preparing guide to give you an
idea of what to expect as a participant on an Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University (IFSA-Butler) program.
While we’ve put together as much information as possible to help you plan, bear in mind that everyone’s
experience is unique and full of surprises.
This booklet is also designed to help students and parents understand IFSA-Butler’s mission and how we
prepare our participants for their study abroad experience. IFSA-Butler provides crucial predeparture support
and services by processing application paperwork, paying all tuition and housing to the host university on your
behalf and by providing a U.S. location for you and your parents to call with questions and concerns. Once you
arrive abroad, our on-site staff help you acclimate to the host country culture, prepare you for the academic
challenges of your program, and provide support and emergency services for the duration of the program.
Keep this booklet with you while you are abroad and once you return to the United States so you can refer to it
as necessary. We also suggest you keep a journal during your time abroad. Journaling can help you reflect on
cultural differences and understand your adjustment process.
Our program advisors have all studied abroad in a variety of countries and have the skills to assist you in
preparation for your study abroad program. Our enthusiasm for international study helps us provide each IFSAButler student the assistance he or she needs to achieve a successful and enjoyable academic experience
abroad. We wish you an exciting summer abroad in Mexico. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to
contact us.
Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University
U.S. Office
800-858-0229
A Welcome from Mérida
We are very glad you have chosen to study in Mérida on an IFSA-Butler program. We look forward to welcoming
you to our country!
Keep an open mind, be flexible and treat every experience as an opportunity to learn something new about this
fascinating country. You must be willing to explore your new environment, even if it means trying new foods, a
different means of transportation, getting lost from time to time, or being confused by words and expressions
you never learned in Spanish class.
At the end of their stay, most students say that the best part of their whole experience abroad was learning different approaches to ordinary things and growing in self-awareness and independence.
One thing we can guarantee about your study abroad experience is that if you immerse yourself, you will have a
unique opportunity to learn about a different culture. We will give you information at orientation, and you’ll
have the chance to ask questions and prepare yourself for your time in Mérida.
Once you settle into your university and with your Mexican family, remember that we are only a phone call
away. Our office isn’t open just for business; we encourage you to come by any time. We love to hear about
what you are learning and experiencing as you make Mexico your second home.
IFSA-Butler Mexico Staff
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Section I: Institute for Study Abroad Services
As a participant on an IFSA-Butler program, you will receive a series of student services. We’ve highlighted some
of them here.
Program Duration
Program services in Mexico are in effect between the dates listed as “program starts” and “program ends” on the
program calendar.
Program Advisors
Each IFSA-Butler program has a U.S.-based advisor who is available to answer your academic, cultural and
program questions about your host country or study abroad in general. Your program advisor processes your
application, serves as the contact between you and your host university and helps prepare the necessary
paperwork for your housing and courses abroad. Your program advisor is your main IFSA-Butler contact in the
United States.
IFSA-Butler Finance Office
Although your program advisor is your main contact for most IFSA-Butler and predeparture planning issues, you
or your parents may also work with the IFSA-Butler finance office on money matters. The staff in our finance
office send program bills, process payments, make payments for all your housing and tuition, and prepare
contractual agreements with U.S. universities to ensure a smooth transfer of financial aid to our programs. You
can reach our finance office during regular business hours at 800-858-0229.
IFSA-Butler Offices Abroad
The IFSA-Butler Mexico office is located near the Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY):
IFSA-Butler Mexico Program
c/o Diana Arízaga
Calle 25 No. 560 x 66
Colonia Jardines de Mérida
Mérida, Yucatán 97135
Mexico
Predeparture Information
The IFSA-Butler U.S. office prepares you for your period of study abroad by sending you a series of e-newsletters,
informative mailings and this planning booklet. Our e-newsletter series contains advice about practical matters
including group flights, passports and packing. We send these to students only, so you may want to share this
information with your parents.
We do, however, send other information to the parents of our students. IFSA-Butler sends parents a mailing
containing Money Matters, this booklet and an insurance brochure. Your program advisor also copies parents on
several advising emails. We also send bills to parents. If you don’t want your parents to receive these materials,
you must notify us in writing and provide an alternate billing address.
Travel
Flight costs are not included in the program fee. You must arrange and pay for your own travel to Mexico and
find your own accommodation and luggage storage if you arrive before the date listed as “program starts” on
the program calendar. You must notify us in writing of your travel plans by filling out a travel notification form sent
to you in the first e-newsletter. We will send you a newsletter with information about how to meet the group for
orientation.
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Orientation
You are required to attend our on-site orientation, which includes lectures, meetings and cultural events.
Orientation offers us a great opportunity to inform you of our services and to prepare you for the academic and
cultural changes you can expect when studying abroad. You must plan your travel so that you arrive in time for
the first day of orientation. Orientation starts on the program start date listed on the program calendar.
During orientation, members of our Mexico staff hold informative sessions on cultural differences, safety
abroad, registration and academic practices, housing, health care, immigration and other study abroad survival
skills. You will receive practical information aimed at helping you better understand your new environment and
easing your adjustment into the new culture.
You must attend all orientation meetings and are responsible for the materials covered and distributed there.
Attending the entire orientation is mandatory. IFSA-Butler reserves the right to withdraw you from the program if
you miss part or all of orientation. No refund is available if you miss orientation.
Don’t forget to budget funds for some meals and activities during orientation. Please see the “Cost of Living”
section on Page 10 of this booklet for more information.
Postorientation Activities
Program excursions or field trips are part of the academic component of this program. They’ll give you a
historical and cultural perspective of the country and region and are mandatory.
IFSA-Butler makes all arrangements for the excursions and accompanies you on these academic visits.
Transportation, entrance fees, guides, snacks and most meals are included in your program fee. You will not be
refunded the cost of an excursion if you do not attend.
Academic Records
Maintaining your academic record is one of the most important services IFSA-Butler provides. You will receive a
Butler University transcript recording the grades and credits from your host university. For information about
our registration and transcript policies, see the “Academics” section on Page 5 of this booklet.
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Section II: Academics
IFSA-Butler summer programs are designed to accommodate students with a variety of language skills:
beginners, intermediate and advanced levels may choose to come on our programs. Courses for our summer
programs are conducted at the new, modern Facultad de Antropología at the Universidad Autónoma de
Yucatán (UADY), the largest, oldest state university in southeast Mexico.
Courses are designed especially for IFSA-Butler students, so you will not study with local students. However, you
will have the chance to mingle with local students who are enrolled in summer courses. You also will have
ample opportunity to meet and interact with the local population through your family placement, field
observations, excursions, and cultural and social activities.
Academic Ethics and Culture
Just as systems of higher education vary greatly by country, so do concepts of academic ethics. As a visiting
student, it is important for you to understand what is expected of you in the classroom and for you to adhere
to these regulations and policies of academic conduct and ethics. IFSA-Butler offices abroad will be your main
resources for information regarding all academic issues. Remember to ask specific questions concerning what
challenges previous study abroad students have faced at your host university.
If you are accused of academic dishonesty, immediately inquire about the appeal processes available at both your
host and home universities. Actively communicate with both universities and strictly adhere to all policies,
regulations and deadlines.
Status
Under law, you must maintain the recommended full course load to ensure your continual registration as a fulltime student. Taking less than a full course load may jeopardize your immigration status and your U.S. financial
aid requirements.
Home Institution Regulations
Some U.S. academic institutions may impose on their students studying abroad the same academic regulations
applicable on their home campus. In some cases, these regulations may conflict with IFSA-Butler policy. Consult
your IFSA-Butler program advisor if this applies to you and your home institution. It is your responsibility to
understand the credit transfer process of your home institution.
Academic Contract
During the IFSA-Butler orientation, you will be required to sign a contract in which you acknowledge your
enrollment responsibilities to your host university and to IFSA-Butler.
Class Attendance
Students studying on an IFSA-Butler program are required to attend all regularly scheduled classes. Failure to
attend classes may result in loss of credit and an F on your transcript.
Completion of Coursework
You must complete all your academic obligations before leaving your host institution. If you turn in an
assignment late, it may get lost and you will lose credit. If you turn in an assignment to anyone other than the
professor, get written documentation of its submission and ensure that the assignment will be given to your
professor. If you submit coursework via email, be sure to receive confirmation of its receipt. Coursework
submitted after the program end date will not be accepted.
IFSA-Butler may allow a student to withdraw in good standing from the program only in cases of severe medical
or personal situations and with approval of both IFSA-Butler and the student’s home institution. Otherwise,
IFSA-Butler does not report grades as incomplete. An incomplete or “absent” grade is reported on your Butler
University transcript as an F. Results from all courses will be reported to your home institution.
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Special Exam Arrangements
You may not reschedule an exam, request alternate assessments or arrange to have your exams proctored in the
United States. If you do, IFSA-Butler will not do a grade query or academic follow-up on the class in which you
arranged an alternate exam or assignment.
Transcripts
Conversion of Host University Grades
We translate your grades according to the scales printed in the Student Handbook distributed during
orientation. Translations do not augment or reduce the grades; they are equivalent to the host university grade.
Once your grades are translated and processed, the Butler University Registrar sends an official transcript to
your home institution and an official transcript to your permanent home address.
The grade report issued by your host university is considered a legal document, and IFSA-Butler cannot alter
anything; the transcript must reflect the original document’s content. We can make a change in course title,
grade level or credit only if we receive a revised grade report document from the host university registrar (or
equivalent office). We will not change a grade if we receive a letter from a university official, a university
professor or a student if it has not first gone through the host university registrar.
All official grades and assessment reports are sent directly to our IFSA-Butler Mexico office by the host
university, although some universities also make your grades available to you online. Grades provided online are
not official. Keep in mind that even if grades are posted online, it does not mean your transcript has been
prepared. No grades are released directly to students or to their home institutions. Please note that host
universities will not issue transcripts to students who have library books to return or owe fines or other fees.
Most U.S. study abroad offices have a written policy on credit earned abroad and how it is recorded on your
permanent record. It is your responsibility to check with your home institution to find out the policy on transfer
credit before you go abroad. Some U.S. colleges and universities do not transfer credit for courses in which you
have earned less than a C.
Although your home institution may accept your host university grades only as pass or fail, graduate schools
will want to see your actual host university grades. Most will require that you provide your Butler University
transcript on which letter grades and U.S. semester credit hours appear. See the “Additional Transcripts” section
of this booklet for more information.
Transcript Schedule
Due to differences between Mexican and U.S. academic systems, your transcript will probably not be available
for as long as five months after completing your study abroad program. Most U.S. universities are used to this
delay and will accept a phone call or letter from our office as explanation.
You may find yourself in jeopardy of losing academic scholarships and/or financial aid because your grades are
not released in a timely manner by your host institution. To help you avoid penalties resulting from delayed
transcripts, we are happy to provide letters of explanation. Contact our U.S. office if you need assistance.
To help expedite your transcript, you should do the following:
• Make sure you return an accurate course registration form to the IFSA-Butler Mexico office.
• Speak to your host university professors about any special deadlines you have for receiving grades.
• Turn your work in on time. The professor can’t issue your grades if he or she doesn’t have your work.
• Make sure all IFSA-Butler fees are paid, library books are returned and fines paid, no damages exist in your
housing and no other debt exists in your name when you return to the United States.
Rush Transcripts
Many IFSA-Butler participants have legitimate reasons for requesting grades before we receive them. If you
need a rush transcript, you should notify the IFSA-Butler Mexico office in writing before returning to the United
States. You must complete the rush transcript form in your Student Handbook, which is distributed at
orientation. We make every effort to expedite the transcript but cannot guarantee that your host university will
rush grades to us.
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Requesting a Butler University Transcript
Requests for an official Butler University transcript may be submitted online through Butler University’s online
transcript ordering service provided through the National Student Clearinghouse, a non-profit organization
serving the higher education community.
This feature allows you to track your transcript, receive text and/or email updates on your transcript status,
upload any documents that must be sent with your Butler University transcript and request an electronic PDF
transcript. You may also request that your transcript be expedited, for an additional fee.
You will need your Butler University student identification number in order to request your transcript. This number can be found on your Butler University transcript and in the IFSA-Butler Student Portal (login and password
required). If you are unable to access your Butler University ID via these options or if you have any questions,
please contact your IFSA-Butler academic affairs coordinator.
Fees and processing time:
• There is a fee of $9 for each transcript requested
• The National Student Clearinghouse processing fee is $2.25 per recipient
• All transcript requests are processed within five working days of receipt
Butler University will not issue a transcript where there is an outstanding IFSA-Butler account balance, including
library fines, unpaid bills, and any costs resulting from damages to IFSA-Butler or host university facilities.
Academic Record Query
When you receive your Butler University transcript, you may disagree with a particular grade or credit allocation.
If you still disagree with your grade or credits after reviewing your work in the course, please call the IFSA-Butler
U.S. office for an academic record query form or download one from our website at www.ifsa-butler.org.
Complete the form and add any supporting documents (papers, reports, etc.), and forward all materials to our U.S.
office. We’ll send everything abroad for review. Please allow six weeks to three months for resolution.
You must submit any appeal to IFSA-Butler promptly after receipt of the official transcript from Butler University.
It is your responsibility to be aware of and meet the deadlines set by the host university. We will not pursue an
academic record query for any course in which you have arranged an alternate assessment, taken an early exam
or arranged to submit an essay outside the required due date. You have one year from the program end date to
file an academic record query with IFSA-Butler. Your host university may have its own regulations regarding grade
appeals; if so, they supersede those of IFSA-Butler.
The following criteria constitute a valid appeal:
• You must have written copies of all submitted course work.
• You must have reason to believe that an error was made in calculating your grade (e.g., work that you
submitted was not received; an error may have been made in marking your final exam).
• You can document grades that would add up to a grade other than what you received.
• Due to medical reasons, you performed badly and gave relevant parties due notice of these reasons during
the academic period for which you are making the academic record query.
IFSA-Butler reserves the right to:
• Screen queries to ensure that they meet academic record query standards.
• Resolve academic record query decisions without forwarding them to the host university.
Keep in mind that an academic record query does not automatically mean a change in your favor and can result
in either a raising or a lowering of your final grade.
IFSA-Butler also will investigate any anomalies in your credit load. Please notify our office if you believe your
Butler University transcript reflects too many or too few U.S. semester credit hours. An academic record query
may result in a raising or lowering of your U.S. semester credit hour total.
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Section III: Finances
Program Fees and Financial Aid
Program Fees
We quote our program fees in U.S. dollars to protect you and your parents from fluctuations in the currency
market. Our fees are set and do not change because of changes in the exchange rates. We use forward contracts to
balance out the exchange rate fluctuations and to protect our fees. Using forward contracts can result in an
average exchange rate that may vary significantly from the daily rates quoted by the banks.
Services Included in the Program Fee
Your program fee includes a wide variety of services in addition to tuition and housing. Services are provided
only during the program start and end date listed on the program calendar.
The IFSA-Butler program fee includes tuition, housing and three meals a day, orientation (including
accommodation and one substantial meal per day), excursions, personal and academic support services in both
the United States and abroad, medical insurance and assistance plan, and an official academic transcript issued
by Butler University (sent to your home institution and home address).
Expenses Not Included in the Program Fee
Expenses not covered by the IFSA-Butler program fee include airfare, commuting costs, vacation expenses, U.S.
domestic travel, passport, personal property or travel insurance, personal items, and textbooks and supplies.
Payment Information
Make checks payable to the Institute for Study Abroad.
Payment Information and Financial Deadlines
Application fee
Program deposit
Summer program fee
Due with application
Due 10 days after acceptance
May 15
Payment Instructions
Our finance office processes all payments and invoices. The last section of this booklet lists all the phone and fax
numbers of our U.S. office. Our finance office can be reached from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET daily by calling toll free
800-858-0229.
When sending your payment, please follow these guidelines:
• Make checks payable to the Institute for Study Abroad. Checks should indicate on the memo section the
student’s full name and the name of the program abroad (e.g., Language and Cultural Studies in the
Yucatán).
• Send checks to:
Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University
1100 W. 42nd St., Suite 305
Indianapolis, IN 46208-3345
• You may pay by credit card (Visa and MasterCard) via our website. Each online payment is subject to a $2
transaction fee plus a 2.9% convenience fee.
Delinquent Payments
If we do not receive financial aid documentation or your full payment by the payment deadline, you will be
withdrawn from the program, will not be allowed to participate in any service or activity of the program and will
be turned away at the airport abroad. You will not be refunded your $500 program deposit or the cost of your
airline ticket. You must make arrangements to pay your fee by the payment deadline.
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Financial Aid Payments
Some universities will not process financial aid for summer programs. Check with your financial aid advisor
immediately to learn if you are eligible for financial aid transfer to the IFSA-Butler summer program.
You should explore the option of financial aid for study abroad as soon as possible. Make an appointment with
your home campus financial aid officer immediately and request a contractual/consortium agreement. A
contractual/consortium agreement is the only guarantee that your financial aid will be transferred to your study
abroad program. For more information, please consult Money Matters.
If you plan to apply financial aid toward the payment of the IFSA-Butler program fee, inform our finance office in
writing. You must send us a copy of your contractual agreement (from your financial aid officer) and a copy of
your financial aid award letter and/or loan guarantees. These documents should indicate the amount of
financial aid award and disbursal date.
If we do not receive these documents before the payment deadline, you must pay the program fee in full on the
due date. You must notify us of the exact circumstances in advance; otherwise, financial aid payments made after
the due date incur a late charge. All fees not covered by other sources are due in full by the stated due date.
Butler University does not process financial aid for IFSA-Butler students unless they are pursuing an
undergraduate degree from Butler. Please do not send any correspondence to Butler University’s Office of
Financial Aid.
Managing Money
We suggest you rely on a combination of credit cards, cash and a U.S. ATM card while abroad. U.S. students
cannot open a bank account in Mexico. We’ll give you additional advice on money management during
orientation, but in the meantime, here are a few guidelines on credit cards and banking. The best way to save
money while studying abroad is to live the way local students do.
Exchange Rates
The currency in Mexico is the peso (P$). The latest exchange rates are available at any bank, in most major
newspapers and on the web at www.oanda.com.
Checks written in U.S. dollars can take up to four months to clear. Some banks will accept them, but charge a hefty
fee for changing them into pesos. To avoid delays and fees, you should not bring, and your parents should not
send, checks written in U.S. dollars.
U.S. Bank Account ATM Cards
ATM networks are available at many banks, meaning you may be able to access your U.S. bank account using
your U.S. ATM card while abroad. Banks charge a fee for each transaction.
Before departure, contact your U.S. bank to make sure you will be able to use your card throughout Mexico.
Some U.S. banks block usage of ATM and debit cards in certain countries because of concerns about fraud.
Some cards require an international code; ask your bank if this applies to you.
Keeping a U.S. bank account allows your parents to deposit money into your account at home, so that you can
withdraw it directly from an ATM abroad. Transferring money this way is nearly instantaneous and relatively
easy, provided you find a machine that will accept your ATM card from home; however, this way is easier if you
and your parents have a joint account.
Cirrus and Plus systems are widely available. Be sure that your ATM card lists one of these networks.
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Remember that ATM transfers may be expensive due to transaction fees. Don’t rely entirely on the ATM service.
If your card is lost or stolen, you won’t have access to emergency funds. Keep some traveler’s checks as an
emergency reserve in case you lose your card. Be sure to record your bank’s customer service telephone
number and your account number in case you need to report a lost or stolen card. We recommend you bring a
duplicate card with you if your bank will issue you one.
Be aware that ATMs offer easy access to your money, which means you may have a harder time sticking to a
budget. Be realistic about how much money you’ll need.
Credit Cards
Do your own investigation into the advantages and disadvantages of various credit card companies. You might
want to look for the ability to draw cash advances through banks abroad and the ability to purchase traveler’s
checks.
Students report that Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted cards in Mexico. Regardless of which
card you select, the card you use must have your name on it as given on your passport. If you plan to use a
parent’s credit card, your parent should request an extra card in your name.
Many budget stores and hotels don’t take credit cards, so the cards are of limited use on a daily basis. That
means if you have to use a credit card, you are likely to find yourself shopping and eating at high-end
establishments. In addition, some businesses charge customers an 11 percent surcharge for credit card
transactions, even though this is illegal. If this happens to you, keep your receipt that reflects the correct
amount and your credit card slip to make a formal complaint.
Lastly, be aware that some stores cannot process “flat” credit cards, ones in which the numbers and name are
printed and not raised as a “relief.”
Despite these drawbacks, a credit card can be very useful in an emergency, so we recommend taking one with
you. Keep a list of your credit card numbers and the customer service numbers in case your cards are lost or
stolen.
Always take a form of ID (driver’s license or passport) when using a credit card. You won’t be allowed to use it in
Mexico without showing appropriate ID.
Wire Transfers
If you need money in a hurry, you can have it sent to you via MoneyGram or Western Union. Although wiring
money involves a large fee, it is relatively safe and you usually receive the money within one day. You will need a
photo ID (use your passport) to collect the money.
Cost of Living
We’ve designed this section to give you and your parents an idea of what it costs to live abroad as a student.
More specific information is available in the budget planner included in your welcome packet.
Remember that prices are always higher if you buy things at a plaza (mall). Buy at local markets whenever
possible to keep costs low.
Costs in this section are given in terms of the Mexican peso (P$). You can find a conversion rate in the business
section of a newspaper or at www.oanda.com. These costs are accurate as of February 2015.
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Insurance
Your program fee includes a medical insurance and assistance plan (see “Insurance and Health Care” on page 13
for details). Information about this plan is included in your welcome packet and additional information is
available on our website. You should review this plan carefully to determine whether you will need insurance in
addition to the IFSA-Butler plan. If so, you will need to budget for this expense.
We recommend that you also purchase personal property and travel insurance, especially if you have a laptop or
expensive video or camera equipment.
Orientation
The mandatory IFSA-Butler orientation lasts for five days. Orientation is covered by your program fee and
includes housing, meals and some entertainment. Past students suggest bringing money for snacks and
souvenirs. You also will need cash for public transportation to and from the orientation site.
Emergency Reserve
You should always have some money set aside for emergencies. We recommend a credit card or cash reserve.
Textbooks and Supplies
For the most part, you will not be required to buy textbooks. Most courses will require that you purchase a
course pack, which is a compilation of different readings.
Dining Out
Your program fee includes three meals a day, but you should budget for snacks and occasional meals out.
Generally speaking, food is relatively inexpensive, especially if you avoid tourist restaurants.
You might want to budget P$100-P$150 per week for snacks and meals on the run. A dinner out may cost
around P$200, but a cheap meal can be had for about P$50.
Personal Expenses
Budget for toiletries, phone cards, haircuts and other personal items. Students recommend stocking up on
certain toiletries before leaving the United States if there is extra room in your luggage. Also, take all the regular
prescription medication you’ll need for the summer with you. In your planning be sure to include laundry,
postage, school supplies, photocopying, etc. See your budget planner for more information.
Transportation
Most students walk or take the bus. You can expect to spend approximately P$200 a week on transportation,
including trips to campus and going out in the evenings.
Entertainment
Theater tickets range in price, but student discounts are available. Our offices abroad can tell you the tricks to
finding less expensive entertainment. Movie tickets cost less than you are probably used to paying for first-run
films in the United States. Wednesday night is half off at the movies. Always carry your student ID card with you.
Travel
Buy a good guidebook to use when planning and budgeting for travel. Lonely Planet Guide and the Rough Guide
are particularly good.
Overall Budgeting
Because of the different spending habits and resources of each of our students, we can’t estimate any one
person’s budget needs. For an individual and accurate estimate, please complete the budget planner included
in your welcome packet.
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Section IV: Getting Ready to Leave
Official Travel Documents
Passport
You must have a passport that is valid for six months past the time you plan to return from Mexico. If you don’t
have a passport, apply for one immediately. Normal processing takes six weeks and may take longer during
peak travel times.
We provide the following information as a guideline to get you started, but you should investigate current
requirements immediately. For complete information about applying for a passport and the latest application
fees, go to the State Department’s website at www.travel.state.gov, then click on “Passports for U.S. Citizens.”
You can apply for your passport through a passport acceptance facility; a list of locations is available at the State
Department’s website.
You must present the following documentation to obtain a U.S. passport:
• Proof of U.S. citizenship—either a certified copy of a birth certificate, a previously issued passport, a
naturalization certificate, a certificate of citizenship or a consular report of birth of a U.S. citizen born
abroad
• Two recent, identical passport photos (2"x2")
• The completed passport application and fee
If you have non-U.S. citizen status, make sure your immigration and travel documents are current and valid. You
might need to check with the local U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office near your university or
home (check the web at www.uscis.gov). To apply for a non-U.S. passport, contact your embassy in Washington,
D.C., and allow several weeks for processing.
If your passport is lost or stolen while you are abroad, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Visa
Non-U.S. citizens should contact the nearest Mexican Embassy or Consulate for up-to-date visa requirements. If
you have a green card, you must mention to the embassy or consulate that you are a permanent resident of the
United States when applying for a visa.
Visas for Vacation Travel
If you plan to travel to other countries before or after the program, you may need a tourist visa. Investigate
whether you’ll need a tourist visa(s) before you leave the United States. Check the State Department’s website at
www.travel.state.gov and click on “International Travel for U.S. Citizens.”
Information about traveling throughout Latin America is included in the Student Handbook you will receive at
orientation. Be aware that not paying a visa fee to get into the country does not mean you won’t have to pay to
leave. Fees may be quite high.
Copies of Your Travel Documents
Keep track of all your travel documents. Make two copies of your passport; leave one copy with your parents
and pack the other copy in your luggage separately from your passport. If you lose your passport, having a
photocopy to take to the U.S. Embassy will speed up the replacement process. Also, keep copies of your credit
cards and record the numbers of your traveler’s checks along with the customer service telephone numbers.
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Insurance and Health Care
IFSA-Butler Group Medical Insurance
The IFSA-Butler program fee includes a medical insurance and assistance plan through Cultural Insurance
Services International (CISI). CISI specializes in providing medical insurance for U.S. students who will receive
treatment when outside the United States.
The CISI program covers the following:
• Eligible medical expenses covered at 100 percent to $500,000 with no deductible
• Emergency medical evacuation to $250,000
• Emergency reunion of family members
• Mental health coverage up to $10,000 for outpatient
• Medical and travel assistance services
• Worldwide hospital and physician referral
• Emergency prescription replacement/shipment
• 24 hour emergency travel arrangements
• Emergency translation service
• Lost document and credit card assistance
• Worldwide legal assistance
Partial coverage of pre-existing conditions, and alcohol and drug abuse are also part of the plan benefits. There
are exclusions to coverage that are outlined on the “Student Insurance” page of our website, located in the “For
Students” section.
All students can print an individual insurance card and plan details before departure via the CISI website
utilizing your personal account, which you will need to create after your acceptance into a program. Coverage
begins on the program departure date and ends on the program end date. Coverage is applicable anywhere
outside the United States, not just the location in which the student is studying abroad.
We strongly recommend that you review the program medical insurance and assistance plan to determine
whether you need additional insurance. In particular, students with pre-existing conditions should investigate
their options carefully.
Please remember that IFSA-Butler does not provide travel or personal property insurance. If you want to insure
your belongings while you are abroad, contact a travel insurance provider.
Additional Insurance Sources
To obtain travel, property or additional medical coverage for a pre-existing condition, we recommend
contacting an insurance company that specializes in coverage for U.S. students abroad. Cultural Insurance
Services International, which provides the insurance plan for IFSA-Butler students, can provide a range of
insurance services.
Cultural Insurance Services International
800-303-8120
Fax: 203-399-5596
www.culturalinsurance.com
Please remember that IFSA-Butler provides no travel or personal property insurance. If you want to insure your
belongings while you are abroad, contact a travel insurance provider.
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Health Care
Have your family physician prepare a summary of ongoing treatment and bring a list of any medications you
take regularly. We recommend that you bring enough medication for the entire summer and leave your
medications in their labeled containers. You should also ask for a prescription with the generic name of the
medication(s) if refills are required abroad. We also recommend complete physical and dental exams prior to
departure and an update of any vaccination(s) your physician recommends. Allergy shots are available, although
payment is required at the time the shot is administered.
If you have a specific health problem of which we should be aware, please inform the IFSA-Butler U.S. office
before departure by returning the medical form included in your acceptance packet. Please tell us about any
physical or mental health problems so we can help make your study abroad experience as comfortable as
possible. We keep this information in the strictest confidence.
If you have been treated for depression, anxiety, eating disorders or anything else that can be classified as a
mental health condition, please carefully review the medical insurance and assistance plan included in your
acceptance packet to determine whether it will meet your needs. You may need additional insurance coverage
for treatment abroad or else you could end up with very large bills.
Prescription Drugs
Pharmacists abroad are under no obligation to fill U.S. prescriptions. We recommend that you take enough
prescription medication for your entire time abroad. If your parents try to ship medication to you abroad, the
package may be stopped at customs.
If you can’t bring an entire summer’s worth of medication, you may have to make an appointment with a local
doctor to get a prescription. Some prescriptions might not be available abroad. If a local prescription is required,
the doctor will most likely give you only a one-month supply.
Specific Health Issues
Generally sanitary conditions are acceptable in large cities, but less so in rural areas. Take precautions in your
host city and when you travel. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice made with tap water. Try to eat fruits and
vegetables that can be peeled before eating to cut down on the risk of food borne illnesses.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at www.cdc.gov to learn the current conditions in
Mexico. See the website’s section on “Traveler’s Health” for CDC recommendations on particular immunizations
or precautions.
Turista
A common condition associated with going abroad is called turista, meaning traveler’s diarrhea and related
symptoms. Nearly everyone gets it while traveling in Latin America. Signs that you may have turista include
abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. You should be especially careful in smaller cities and rural
areas.
If you have turista, you will lose fluids, so dehydration and loss of body salts may result. Drink plenty of clear
liquid such as 7-Up, Sprite, ginger ale, bottled water or fat-free salty broth. Avoid coffee and milk. Bananas or
yogurt are a good first “solid” meal after you’ve had turista.
You might want to take with you some over-the-counter remedies, such as Paregoric or prescription medicines
such as Lotomil. Remember to get plenty of rest and watch what you eat.
To avoid turista when you travel, always drink boiled or bottled water, peeled fruit and be careful of uncooked
fish and vegetables. Commercial water sterilizing tablets are easy to use but sometimes hard to find. Buy them
in the United States before you leave.
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Malaria
Malaria is a common problem in certain areas of Mexico, although it is not prevalent in Mérida. Because malaria
is carried by mosquitoes, the best way to avoid the disease is to avoid being bitten. Wear insect repellent and
long sleeves and pants if you must be out at dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Check the CDC website for
more information about avoiding and treating malaria, as well as areas where you might be exposed to the
mosquitoes that carry it. You can also talk to your doctor about preventive anti-malarial prescription drugs.
Dengue Fever
Some areas in Mexico have suffered from outbreaks of Dengue fever over the last few years. Dengue fever is a
nonfatal disease caused by a virus that is transmitted by mosquitoes. The illness usually runs its course in about
10 days, but it may take two to four weeks to recover completely. There is no vaccine for Dengue fever, so the
CDC recommends that you avoid mosquitoes by using insect repellents and staying in well-screened or air
conditioned areas. For more information about Dengue fever, its symptoms and treatment, visti the CDC
website.
Immunizations
For travel purposes, we recommend that you keep all standard immunizations (e.g., typhoid, diphtheria,
tetanus) up to date. Make an appointment with your physician or university health center to check on any
immunizations you might need. See your doctor at least four to six weeks before your departure to give the
immunizations time to take effect.
In addition, the CDC maintains a list of recommended immunizations on its website (www.cdc.gov). As of
February 2015, the CDC recommended the following vaccinations for travelers to Central and South America:
• Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG)
• Hepatitis B, if you might be exposed to blood, have sexual contact with the local population or be exposed
through medical treatment
• Rabies, if you might be exposed to wild or domestic animals through your work or recreation
• Typhoid, particularly if you are visiting developing countries in this region
• As needed, booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria and measles
Students with Disabilities
We encourage students with disabilities to explore studying abroad through our programs. Laws governing
access, support and services for the disabled vary from country to country. We can work with you and our
affiliates abroad to find a program that most closely meets your needs in a community that is as accessible as
possible.
If you require modified facilities or specific equipment, we can investigate their availability. We also can seek
information about local medical facilities or relevant services accessible from your proposed study site. If you
have a learning disability documented by a health care provider who describes your academic needs, we can
work with you to try to find a program to meet those needs. Equipment or services may result in additional cost
to you.
Resources abroad may be limited because many institutions cooperate in sharing special equipment such as
phonic ears or print-enlarging computer programs. Please provide documentation and specific details about
the equipment, services or other modifications you need, as early as possible.
You can inform IFSA-Butler of any medical condition by filling out the medical form enclosed in your acceptance
email. Medical conditions have no bearing on your admission, but your study abroad experience may be
negatively affected if all parties involved are not adequately informed of your needs. Please supply us with any
pertinent documentation.
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Packing
Do not pack more than you can carry at one time. Most host family homes have minimal storage space, and
you’ll have to carry your own luggage everywhere. Airlines have strict limits on the number of bags you can
take and the weight of your luggage, so pack accordingly. Airlines generally allow only two checked bags and
one carry-on bag and you will be responsible for any excess baggage charges.
Pack wisely and use suitable luggage. Trunks are impossible to handle alone, and suitcases are bulky and tiring
to carry. Past students suggest a durable, internal-frame backpack as the ideal piece of luggage. Don’t order
your backpack by mail; you should inspect it closely and try it on before purchasing. Find a comfortable fit.
A backpack, a small suitcase with wheels and a small carry-on is all the luggage you should need. A money belt
or waist pouch is also practical for vacation travel.
Climate
The Yucatán has a tropical climate and the average temperature is in the 80s (Fahrenheit). The air is humid and it
rains frequently. You should take comfortable clothes that you can layer if the weather turns cooler at night.
Packing Tips
When packing, make luggage tags to identify all your luggage, including your carry-on. Put labels inside your
luggage in case the outside labels fall off. You might want to purchase small padlocks for your luggage as well.
Although airline security may limit your use of padlocks, they are useful for travel within Latin America. Make
sure your locks are Transportation Security Administration approved (see www.tsa.gov).
Do not pack your tickets, passport, travel documents, medicine or valuables in your checked luggage. Keep
them on your person in a money belt or in a bag worn across your chest at all times. Do not put valuables in a
backpack; backpacks are prone to theft.
Other suggestions and reminders from past students include the following:
• Airlines have stringent baggage and weight requirements. Do not attempt to exceed the baggage limit. If
you do, the airline staff can make you purchase additional luggage and repack in the airport. They may also
charge you an extra weight fee.
• Keep FAA regulations in mind when packing your carry-on. Do not bring anything that could be considered
a weapon onto the plane. Please visit your airline’s website for detailed security information.
• Pack your carry-on so that you can live out of it for a few days if your checked luggage gets lost. In addition
to your essential paperwork, pack medicines, contact lenses or glasses, toiletries and a change of clothes.
• Carry-on luggage must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin. We recommend that you
keep your carry-on weight to about 10 pounds because you’ll have to carry it everywhere.
Packing 101
• If losing something would affect your happiness, leave it at home.
• Consider obtaining extra travel and personal property insurance before leaving the United States.
• Leave room in your luggage to bring home the things you acquire while abroad.
• Laundry methods abroad may be hard on your clothes so pack clothes that can sustain some abuse. You
might have to dry your clothes on a line.
• Break in your walking shoes before you leave.
• Pack shampoos, toothpaste and any other toiletries that may leak or ooze in plastic bags in your checked
luggage (resealable bags are best).
• A plastic bag can also be used to separate dirty and clean laundry and to hold wet clothes.
• Pack what you’ll need first on top of one bag.
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Suggested Packing List
In the excitement of preparing to study abroad, you may think you need to purchase an entirely new wardrobe,
but you don’t.
In the Yucatán, you will need clothes suitable for tropical weather. If you plan to travel around Latin America,
you will need warmer clothing. When packing, keep in mind the types of activities you will be doing. You will
need clothes for classes, informal occasions, proper sporting gear and nice clothing for more formal occasions.
Remember, dark-colored clothing doesn’t show dirt or wear as much as lighter-colored clothes do.
Adapt the following list to your personal preferences, but note that even your casual clothing should look nice.
Clothes
You can supplement the packed items below once you arrive abroad.
• Short-sleeved and long-sleeved dress shirts and/or blouses
• Short-sleeved casual shirts
• Casual cotton dresses or skirts
• Casual pants (Mexico is probably too hot for jeans)
• Dress pants or skirts
• Shorts
• T-shirts
• One or two light sweaters
• Sweatshirt
• Swimsuit
• Waterproof jacket
• Underclothes
• Workout clothes
• Pajamas and lightweight bathrobe
• A pair of hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes
• A pair of sandals or flip flops
• Waterproof, outdoor clothes for hiking
• Beach towel
Health and Safety
• Travel-size toiletries (some U.S. brands are available in Mexico, but perhaps not your favorite brands)
• Prescription medicines in their original labeled containers
• Written prescriptions for refills (use generic names)
• Contact lens solution (less than 100 ml), an extra pair of contacts or glasses and your prescription
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Condoms
• A small first-aid kit (include band-aids, antibiotic cream, aspirin, cold and flu medication, cough drops,
Pepto-Bismol, Imodium AD, laxatives and anti-itching lotion)
Miscellaneous
• Portable alarm clock with battery backup
• Portable hair dryer
• Umbrella and rain gear
• Camera and memory card
• Journal
• Address book with family and friends’ contact information
• Photos of your family and friends
• Spanish/English dictionary or all-Spanish dictionary and grammar book
• iPod or MP3 player
• Books; you’ll find you have a lot of time for reading especially when traveling independently or taking long
bus rides.
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• Guidebook for Mexico and Latin America
• Money belt or pouch to wear around your neck to hold passport, money, etc.
• Swiss Army knife (very useful when traveling, but do not pack it in your carry-on bag; FAA regulations state it
must be in your checked luggage).
Your Carry-On Bag
• Passport; check your passport to ensure it is valid six months past the time you are scheduled to be
abroad. Also, make two photocopies of your passport (i.e., the page with your photo and passport number).
Pack one copy (separate from your official documents) and leave the other copy with your parents.
• Plane tickets or e-ticket confirmations
• This booklet
• Limited cash, ATM card, credit card and traveler’s checks
• Proof of medical, travel and personal property insurance
• Travel-size toiletries
• Change of clothes in case your luggage is lost
• Medications, including a written copy of any prescriptions and the generic names of those prescriptions
• Spare glasses, contact lenses and solution. The plane can be very dry, so you may want to wear glasses
instead of contact lenses.
• Camera and memory card
• A sweater or waterproof, windproof jacket
• Something to read/listen to
• Your journal and a pen
• A snack
You should also pack in your carry-on all of your important paperwork:
• Name, address, phone and fax numbers of your physician
• Name, phone and fax numbers and email of your home college advisor
• Name and email of your IFSA-Butler program advisor and resident director(s)
• Details of your insurance coverage
• Documentation of disabilities and required accommodation for physical or learning disabilities
• Updated home university transcript. A student copy is fine; you may want it during registration
• A copy of your birth certificate in addition to your passport and visa (if a visa is required)
Do Not Bring
• Expensive jewelry or jewelry with sentimental value
• Too much cash
• Illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia of any kind
• Too much luggage
Linens
Sheets and towels will be provided. You may also bring your own beach towel or purchase one after you arrive
abroad.
Medication
Prescription medication should be properly labeled and left in the packaging in which it came from the
pharmacist. Bring enough for your entire time abroad. Have your family physician write out the generic
(chemical) name of any prescription medication, as brand names vary from country to country. You will likely
need the written prescription to show at customs, so don’t forget to include it in your carry-on bag. Also bring a
full supply of your regularly used over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and cosmetics from the United States.
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Contact Lenses and Glasses
If you wear contacts, ask your eye doctor about what to do while you are abroad. Pack a spare set of contact
lenses and your eyeglasses in case of emergency. Also bring your lens or glasses prescription.
Your favorite contact care brands probably will not be available abroad, and the cost of contact solution is high
compared to in the United States. You may want to take enough to last the entire period abroad.
Computers
The only type of computer you should consider taking abroad is a laptop. Past students highly recommend
bringing a laptop if you already own one, as the hours for using university computers are limited. As a student
you will have access to email and the Internet. Additionally, Internet cafés are available; for a small fee, you can
have access to email and search the Internet.
IFSA-Butler is not responsible for your personal property. Consult your insurance carrier for information on travel
and personal property insurance.
Set up an Internet email account so that your parents and friends can contact you. You’ll want a non-graphicsheavy program for email because connections can be slow. Past students recommend signing up for a Yahoo! or
Gmail account.
Musical Instruments
If you choose to bring a musical instrument, make sure it is enclosed in a hard case and insured. Instruments
count as extra luggage on your flight. If you bring a stringed instrument, loosen or remove the strings to lower
the tension on the neck during the flight.
Items to Leave at Home
Please do not bring expensive jewelry, sentimental objects, designer luggage or trunks. If you can’t decide
whether or not to take something sentimental, ask yourself how you would feel if it were stolen.
We cannot emphasize enough that you should not over pack. You have to carry your own bags everywhere. While
you travel, you have to store excess baggage or take it along. Trunks may have to be transported separately; if
so, they must pass through U.S. Customs upon port of entry and may incur a high fee in addition to the
shipping costs. IFSA-Butler staff do not carry luggage, so be sure you can handle yours on your own.
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Section V: Living Abroad
Housing
The IFSA-Butler program fee includes housing while classes are in session. We provide a comparable standard of
accommodation for all program participants. Exact conditions, equipment and amenities vary by residence.
Please remember these important points regarding housing:
• Choice of housing is subject to availability. We guarantee housing, but we cannot guarantee your first
choice.
• All students must sign an IFSA-Butler housing contract. You are bound by its restrictions and regulations.
As part of the program, you are required to live with a family while in Mexico. Living with a family allows you to
see and participate in the complexity and diversity of Mexican society. Instead of learning from a textbook
about Mexican social structure, you can experience firsthand the views and home life of a Mexican family.
Mexican Family Structure
Our resident office staff will place you with a Mexican family based on the information you provided on the
IFSA-Butler housing form. We will try to match your needs as closely as possible, but we can’t guarantee a
perfect match. Both you and your host family will most likely have to make adjustments.
Host families are from middle to upper-middle class backgrounds. Through your host family, you will have your
first exposure to Mexican society, local customs and cultural values. These families have been carefully screened,
have attended an orientation about what it means to host a foreign student, and the majority have had previous
experience. They also have received a written document with your expectations, duties and responsibilities.
The following are the most apparent differences between Latin American and U.S. families:
• Most family members remain at home until they get married, so you may have host brothers and sisters in
their late 20s or even 30s.
• The concept of independence and privacy are different. Women in particular should be aware of this and
realize that your host family will worry if you stay out late. Please be considerate of your family’s feelings.
Regardless of the family structure, you will have a wonderful opportunity to learn about local culture. Take
advantage of this and participate in family activities as much as possible.
Family members live less privately than they do in the United States. You are expected to participate in family
activities. While you shouldn’t feel pressured to take part in all the family activities to which you are invited,
participating will enrich your family experience.
Families receive a monthly fixed amount of money to host you. This amount covers your room and three meals
per day (laundry service is not included). However, this does not allow you to treat your host home like a hotel.
By living with a host family, regardless of the amount you are paying, you will have to respect and comply with
the family’s rules and regulations.
It is not just courteous—it is mandatory—that you let your family know if you are going out, where and with
whom you are going, whether you will be home for meals and when you will be back.
During your adjustment period, act like a guest and be sure to ask for permission before helping yourself. In
short, be on your best behavior. As you find your niche within the family, your host family will probably be more
comfortable and will treat you like one more member of the family.
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Your Role in the Household
Make an effort to fit into your host family. Find out what the household schedules are for meals, getting up in
the morning, using the hot water for showers and all other family activities. Be quiet when coming in late at
night. Your family may want you to accompany them on certain visits, activities or excursions. These provide
great opportunities to learn about the culture firsthand, and you should take advantage of them when possible.
To avoid problems in adjusting to your family, remember that communication is key. While you may feel selfconscious about your Spanish, letting your host family know how you feel or what might be bothering you will
make life easier for both you and your host family.
Your Room
Keep your room neat. Your room is regarded as a part of the home. To make everyone happy, keep your clothes
in the closet, make your bed each morning and don’t let books, papers and other clutter accumulate too much.
The room is only for the student who lives in it. You may not bring guests over without first asking permission to
do so, and you may not invite people to spend the night.
Laundry
Laundry is not included as part of the housing fee. You can arrange for your host family to do your laundry for
an extra fee, or you can go to one of the many laundromats located around town. Keep in mind that most
houses do not have clothes dryers. Most clothes are line dried and ironed. That procedure can be hard on
clothes. Bring clothing that can stand up to some wear.
Laundromats may wash clothes for you, but they are not always careful about separating colors. If you take your
laundry to a laundromat, separate the loads first or your clothes might come back with color stains.
Meals
Your program fee includes three meals a day supplied by your host family. Families are not supposed to provide
food if you travel during weekends or on holidays (except for field trips) or give you money for that purpose. If
you need to stay at the university for lunch, your family will provide a bagged lunch. However, many students
just purchase an inexpensive lunch at or near the university.
Taste all the food given to you. Accept that the foods you eat abroad will be very different from those to which
you are accustomed. Even if you are certain that you will not like a new food, try it anyway to be polite.
Mexicans eat a light breakfast, a big lunch and a light dinner. Generally, breakfast is served from 6 to 8 a.m.;
lunch is eaten around 1 or 2 p.m. and dinner is served from about 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. Lunch is considered the
most important meal of the day.
Here are some guidelines regarding meals with your host family:
• Do not expect the family to prepare a special meal for you. You are part of the family, not a privileged guest.
The only exception may be for food allergies, a kosher diet or strict vegetarians.
• If you will not be home for a meal, tell your family in advance.
• Do not invite guests to meals unless the family has told you that you may do so. Your room and board fee
covers only you, so always ask permission before inviting guests.
• Always ask before helping yourself to food in the refrigerator or pantry.
• Do not take meals to your room. Meals are social occasions that are shared with family members.
• Always say “thank you” when a meal is given to you, even if the rest of the people at the table don’t say it. It
will make the server feel appreciated.
Students must enter and leave the house with a greeting. Do not simply enter the home and lock yourself in
your room or leave without saying goodbye. Doing so is considered very rude.
See Appendix I of this booklet for more information about meals.
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Special Diets
If you have special dietary needs (kosher, vegetarian, food allergy, etc.), please discuss with your host family the
best way to accommodate your eating habits.
If you are a vegetarian accustomed to eating soy products like tofu, you may have to purchase them yourself
because they are very expensive items not included in the regular Mexican diet. You will have an easier
experience if you eat meat, or at least fish, while you are abroad.
General Housing Information
Bathroom Usage
Most people in Mexico take a shower every morning. Be mindful that others in the family also need to get ready
for school or work. Water is precious, so do not stay too long in the shower, even if no one is waiting.
You will also notice that people do not throw toilet paper into the toilet. Instead, every bathroom is provided
with a waste basket for this purpose. The general belief is that toilet paper will clog the pipes. We recommend
you stick to custom.
Bedtimes
You might be surprised to learn that the daily routine begins early because of the heat. People try to get in as
many activities as possible before it gets too hot. The younger generation stays up later than the older
generation to take advantage of local nightlife.
Breakage
If you break anything in the house, you are responsible for replacing it.
Communication
Families sometimes make comments about students eating too little or too much, gaining or losing weight.
Please take these comments as an indication that your host family is trying to engage you in conversation; don’t
be offended by them. These comments aren’t meant to be critical, but are just a way for your host family to let
you know they care and worry about you.
Friendliness
Be friendly and pleasant with your host family. Smiling and making pleasant conversation will reassure them
that you appreciate their hospitality and enjoy living with them. North Americans are sometimes seen as too
quiet, overly serious or unfriendly. Your host family may interpret silence as a sign that you are unhappy.
Housing Assignment Notification
When we receive your housing assignment, we will forward it to you as soon as possible. In some cases we do
not receive notification of housing assignments prior to your departure from the United States, but we do
guarantee housing. If you do not receive notice of your placement before departure you can expect to have it in
writing during orientation.
Housing Changes
If you are dissatisfied with your host family after an adequate trial period, you may be allowed to change
families. We screen host families carefully and keep host families in reserve in case of problems. If you are having
difficulty with your host family, please discuss it with our resident director. We want your homestay experience
to be a good one, so don’t hesitate to speak to the staff in our Mexico office if problems arise.
House Key
Discuss your host family’s house key policy as soon as possible so that you may come and go without disturbing
them. Be careful with your key. Most people are security conscious and would probably want to replace the lock
(at your expense) if you lose the key.
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Manners
“Sí por favor,” “No, gracias,” “Sí, señor,” “No, señor.” While these phrases are formal, these are expressions that you
are expected to use. A simple “sí” or “no” can be considered rude, particularly if you are addressing someone
older than you. You might wish to call your host mother señora and your host father señor out of respect. If your
host mother is named Cecilia, you may call her Señora Cecilia; your host father Guillermo becomes Señor
Guillermo.
You should try to engage in conversation with the household members. You are expected to express an opinion
and take an active role in the family rather than waiting for someone to speak to you first or only respond with
yes or no answers. Ask questions and show some interest in your surroundings.
Pets
Many families have pets at home. Treat these animals the same way that others in the family treat them.
Telephones
Telephone usage is expensive in Mexico, and bills are not itemized. While you may be able to receive calls at
your host family’s home, you may not make outgoing calls. See “Telephones” in the next section for more
information.
Visitors
As a guest of the family, you shouldn’t invite someone to your home without prior permission. Doing so can be
a great source of embarrassment and unnecessary hard feelings with your host family. Arrange to meet your
friends at a restaurant, cafe or club.
Please do not ask your host family to house visiting friends or family overnight. This is against IFSA-Butler policy
and may strain your relationship with your host family.
Visitors from Home
Your parents or other family members may want to visit you while you’re studying abroad. This is a great
opportunity to share your experience with your family, but they should not schedule their visit during the
orientation or during your exams.
Telephones and Mail
Cell Phones
The best way to stay connected abroad is to purchase a cell phone. You can buy a cell phone for as little as
US$40 and purchase prepaid airtime calls. In Mexico, prepaid phone cards are available in increments of P$50,
P$100, P$200 and P$500.
Local calls cost P$1 to call someone on the same cell network or about P$3 for someone on a different network.
Text messaging costs about P$0.60 per text. Calling the United States costs about P$7 per minute; receiving a
call from the United States is free.
Telephones
Phone service is expensive in Mexico, and it’s one of the first things you should discuss with your host family.
Although you may accept incoming calls, do not accept collect calls made to you.
You may want to consider an international telephone credit card, which is available through most long-distance
phone companies. Contact your long-distance carrier to obtain one in your name. The benefit of using one of
these cards is that charges are based on U.S. rates, making calls more economical for you and your family. The
other benefit is that rates are itemized by the U.S. companies, allowing you to keep track of expenses.
Also consider the cost of purchasing a prepaid phone card. Our Mexico office can show you how to buy and use
one. Generally speaking, it’s cheaper to use a U.S.-based calling card or to have someone from home call you.
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Long-Distance Telephone Calls
Before making long-distance telephone calls, arrange with your host family to call collect or use your
international calling card. The following are options for calling long distance.
Skype
Skype is an affordable, convenient way to keep in touch with family and friends during your time abroad. Many
students now use this as their primary means of keeping in touch with people at home.
Have People Call You
It’s much cheaper to call from the United States than from Mexico, so arrange a day and time for your friends
and family to call so you can wait for the call. If your family is on a strict budget, a schedule makes minimizing
your overall costs easier. A schedule also helps minimize your family’s worry associated with having you abroad
since they know when they can reach you. Have family and friends obtain an international calling plan as well.
Calling from Mexico or Peru Using a Calling Card
Call AT&T (0-800-0114-114), MCI (0-800-0122-222) or Sprint (0-800-0130-123) directly to talk to an operator in
the United States. By using these operators, you can either charge the call to your calling card or make a collect
call, which is more expensive. However, making a collect call this way is still less expensive than calling direct
through a Mexican telephone company.
Calling Collect Using a Mexican or Peruvian Operator
Dial 116 when in Mexico and ask to make una llamada por cobrar. Make sure you ask for por cobrar, or the operator
will charge the call to your host family’s house. Most pay phones can receive incoming calls. When traveling, you
can call collect to the United States and give them the number on the pay phone so they can call you back at a
cheaper rate.
Calling Direct from Your Host Family’s Home
This is strictly prohibited. Use a calling card or call collect.
Making Telephone Calls
When your friends and parents call Mexico, they’ll need to use international codes. To call Mexico from the
United States, dial:
• 011 to get the call routed out of the United States
• 52 to route the call to Mexico
• and the local phone number (include a 1 before the area code of calling a mobile phone)
To call the United States, dial:
• 00 to get your call routed out of Mexico
• 1 to route your call to the United States
• then the area code and local phone number
We recommend the use of an international telephone credit card, which is available through most long-distance
phone companies. Contact your long-distance carrier to obtain one in your name. The benefit of using one of
these cards is that charges are based on U.S. rates, making calls more economical for you and your family. The
other benefit is that rates are itemized by the U.S. companies, allowing you to keep track of expenses.
Before you leave for Mexico, ask your operator for the access codes from Mexico and from any other country in
which you intend to travel.
Mail
Regular mail from the United States to Mexico can take up to 15 days. If someone in the United States needs to
send you an important or urgent document, have them send it via Fed Ex. Remember that these services usually
will not deliver to a box number, so the sender needs to provide a street address and a telephone number. Do
not use UPS because you will have to pay customs charges to receive your package, even if the sender has
already paid those costs in the United States. Avoid shipping parcels or having anything of value sent to you.
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Rather than writing your letters home on stationery, consider using air letters. They cost less to post and are
easier to use than regular stationery.
Shipping goods home is expensive and not very reliable. If you decide to ship to the United States, expect a
wait of about six to eight weeks. Send all your books home “book rate,” which means unsealed with tape but
fastened with string and open-ended for examination by customs.
Legal Matters
Student Status/Employment
Students who are U.S. citizens are allowed to enter Mexico by showing their passport and tourist card (distributed on
the flight to Mexico), which acts as a temporary visa. Upon arrival, you will go through immigration, where your
passport and tourist card will be stamped. If you fail to register during your first month in Mexico, the
immigration office will fine you.
Students are not permitted to work with this temporary visa. If you are found in violation of this rule, the
government may deport you at your own expense. See page 12 for more about visas.
Legal Status
While abroad, you are subject to local laws and customs, which may vary considerably from U.S. practice.
Ignorance of the law never serves as a defense for criminal activity. Wherever you are, be careful not to break
the law.
If you are arrested abroad:
• A consular official attempts to visit you in jail, provides you with a list of attorneys and clarifies your legal
rights.
• The consulate can also help you contact family or friends for further assistance.
• The U.S. Department of State maintains contact with you, the attorney and local authorities to determine
how you are being treated and to ensure the process of making legal charges is not delayed unnecessarily.
IFSA-Butler does not provide legal advice or support to students arrested abroad. IFSA-Butler reserves the right
to dismiss you from the program if you are charged with a crime.
Embassy and Consular Services
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates abroad provide the following services.
• Replacement of passports
• Assistance in locating medical service and notifying friends and family in case of emergency
• Assistance with finances if money is lost or stolen
• Attorney lists, transfer of money and notification of family for American citizens in jail
• Disaster or emergency evacuation assistance
The U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad replace passports and assist U.S. citizens abroad. They do not serve
as travel agencies, banks, law offices, police or job placement services.
Possession and Sale of Narcotics
The penalties for drug offenses vary from country to country. Fines are high, imprisonment common and
deportation probable.
If accused of drug possession, dealing or trafficking, you will be subject to local legal standards and practices,
and your U.S. citizenship will not provide any special protections. U.S. students convicted of drug offenses are
subject to imprisonment and/or deportation.
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Customs
When you reenter the United States, customs will require you to declare all items purchased abroad. Keep an
account of the costs of purchases, including sales slips. U.S. Customs officials have the right to see them.
There are penalties for underestimating the value of declared articles or not reporting them at all. Customs
regulations and charges are subject to change, so you may want to check the U.S. Customs and Border
Protection website at www.cpb.gov for up-to-date information.
Safety Abroad
Crime
There is no reason to be unduly concerned about the type of violent crime that is common in the United States,
but petty theft is common in Mexico. Don’t travel with valuable personal property and avoid traveling alone late
at night. Don’t invite trouble by flashing jewelry, watches or wallets. Keep your camera in a sturdy camera bag
rather than slung on a strap around your neck or over your shoulder. Be especially careful on buses since robbery is easier in crowded conditions.
Students studying abroad have a tendency to let down their guard and trust people more than they would at
home. During the IFSA-Butler orientation, our staff focuses on personal safety, practical tips and common sense
rules of living abroad. Contact your insurance agent to obtain additional personal property insurance if
necessary.
Security Measures (Evacuation Scenarios)
IFSA-Butler follows certain procedures if and when a specific threat is made against U.S. citizens abroad in a
specific geographic location where we have programs. In some cases, political instability within that location
might make it necessary to follow these procedures; likewise, threats made against the general population
within that country would also trigger our security procedures.
Should any of these scenarios occur, IFSA-Butler immediately notifies both students and their parents. During
orientation, we collect our students’ passport numbers and send them to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate along
with our students’ host family addresses.
Our U.S. office remains in constant contact with and relies on detailed reports from the resident directors
regarding any developments.
We recommend travel or evacuation only as a last resort and only if required by the U.S. State Department or
Embassy. Please refer to our website for more information.
Program Safety
IFSA-Butler is committed to ensuring the safety of all students on our programs. We spend a great deal of our
orientation abroad describing risks that can occur abroad. We also spend time discussing the issues that are
described in the “Student Affairs” section of this booklet. Both aspects are fully covered in the Student Handbook
distributed at orientation.
We ask you to read the descriptions of and sign waivers for certain activities that we organize during the
summer. We use only licensed and bonded transportation companies for taking you on excursions.
We have extensive support systems on site to help you with any personal or academic problems. In an
emergency, our staff abroad can be contacted 24 hours a day. We will give you a laminated emergency card
with contact information during your orientation. Keep it with you at all times.
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We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to have adequate health coverage while abroad. Review the
medical insurance and assistance plan included in your program fee to determine whether you need additional
coverage.
Student Safety Precautions
We recommend that students take the following basic precautions while studying and traveling abroad.
Register with the U.S. Embassy
We recommend that you register with the U.S. Embassy soon after you arrive. It is important that the U.S.
authorities be able to contact you in case of an emergency. If an emergency occurs while you are traveling,
contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may need to register with your own country’s embassy or consulate. Ask our
staff for information during orientation.
Read the State Department Travel Advisories
These are available for all countries at www.travel.state.gov; be sure to read them for any place you plan to visit.
Our offices abroad routinely update students on new travel advisories, cautions and warnings.
Keep a Low Profile
Avoid speaking loudly or in English, and avoid wearing clothes that mark you as a U.S. citizen (e.g., university
fraternity or sorority shirts). Don’t hang out at tourist gathering places and do not travel in large groups of
Americans.
Be Cautious When You Meet New People
Don’t give out your address or telephone number. Be aware of your surroundings and the people with whom
you have contact. U.S. women have a reputation for being “easy,” and many Mexican men assume that this
stereotype is true.
When Traveling, Leave a Daily Itinerary
When you travel outside your host city, leave a detailed itinerary with our Mexico office. You can send your
itinerary via email to the office. Make sure you have sufficient funds (usually in cash) with you. Please feel free to
travel, but let our office know where you are and how to contact you.
Do Not Leave Your Bags Unattended
Do not agree to carry or look after packages or suitcases for anyone, and never leave your bags unattended.
Keep Up with Current Events
Know what’s going on politically in the world by listening to the television or radio on a daily basis. In the event
of an emergency, advisories may be made to the general public through the media.
In case of an emergency, remain in contact with our Mexico office via phone and email
Should an emergency occur, check in immediately by phone or email with our office. You should also contact
your parents to let them know you are fine.
Travel Within Mexico
When you leave on a trip, make sure to complete the travel form letting our Mexico office staff know where you
are going and when you will be back. We must know where to find you in case of an emergency. If you are
delayed on your return, please let the Mexico office staff or your host family know of your whereabouts right
away.
Traveling Outside Mexico
You must be extremely cautious when traveling outside Mexico. We urge you to consult the State Department
Consular Information Sheets before embarking on any adventure by visiting www.travel.state.gov. You might
also talk to someone at the U.S. Consulate; take their recommendations seriously.
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If you decide to travel around Central or South America, do not travel by land; it is extremely dangerous. Although
it is more expensive, we recommend that you travel by air. Once you arrive at your destination, you can use the
local transportation to start moving around.
Being a U.S. Citizen Abroad
While studying abroad, you may encounter negative attitudes toward U.S. citizens and their government,
history or culture. This kind of anti-Americanism has existed since before the Cold War, but it often takes
students and their parents by surprise.
Most anti-American opinions are just that: individual opinions about U.S. politics or culture. They may be based
on current events, stereotypes, media or experiences with other U.S. citizens. These views are not intended to be
a threat to you, so do not react defensively and try not to take such an opinion personally. If you argue, you only
increase the tension and inflame the situation. Instead, express your own opinions calmly and with confidence,
whether you agree with the other person’s views or not.
Before going abroad, brush up on U.S. history and politics, as well as the reasoning behind U.S. foreign policy.
This knowledge will help you participate in conversations or debates without feeling helpless or personally
attacked.
Study abroad is full of academic and cultural challenges, including the reality that a wide range of opinions
about the United States exists. Remember that our staff is happy to lend a sympathetic ear and offer further
advice for dealing with these situations.
Emergencies Abroad
Please take reasonable precautions while abroad. Avoid risky behavior, walking alone at night and exploring on
your own. Pay attention to warning signs. Carry a next-of-kin contact card in your wallet along with the
emergency contact wallet card we give you during orientation abroad.
The IFSA-Butler Mexico office emergency numbers are for use after business hours or on weekends. The
emergency numbers are open only for emergency purposes; the staff can’t stay on the line with you if your
concern can be handled during regular business hours.
Although we give you a list of emergency numbers for you to use, our staff is happy to provide assistance to
you in times of emergency.
Specific Emergencies
Our Mexico office has emergency procedures in place to assist you. We’ll give you a laminated emergency
contact number card during the orientation abroad.
If you have been the victim of a crime or if there is a fire, call the police number immediately. Our offices will help
you file a police report.
If you require immediate medical assistance, call the rescue number or emergency number (equivalent to 911).
In case of earthquakes or flooding, follow local emergency directions.
If you are hospitalized abroad, call the IFSA-Butler Mexico office immediately. We can help you with insurance
questions and translate paperwork for you.
If you have been arrested abroad, call the IFSA-Butler Mexico office emergency number. We can’t provide you
with legal help, but we can offer support.
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Finally, if you have an emergency abroad, please contact your family in the United States once you are safe to
assure them that all is well.
Local Area Emergency and Student Check-In
If a local emergency occurs while you are studying abroad, we want to make sure you are safe. Please contact
IFSA-Butler via email or phone according to the information provided on your IFSA-Butler laminated emergency
contact card. Then contact your parents by phone or email to let them know you are okay.
Student Affairs
This section is designed to help you and your parents prepare for your time abroad and cope with issues once
you are abroad. Some of this information is also touched on in other sections of this booklet.
Alcohol
The legal drinking age is 18 in Mexico, and alcohol has a substantial presence. While IFSA-Butler never pays for
alcohol at events we sponsor, free university-sponsored events might provide alcohol. Think about how you’ll
deal with the easy access to alcohol before you go.
IFSA-Butler events are alcohol free. Students who are intoxicated or carrying alcohol at IFSA-Butler events may
not be allowed to participate.
Many students choose to avoid alcohol and drink nonalcoholic beverages instead. We recommend that you
drink moderately if you choose to drink. Remember that binge drinking is extremely dangerous.
We cannot emphasize enough how many discipline and safety issues are caused by overindulgence with
alcohol and how many study abroad experiences are soured because of it. Most complaints and police
encounters that involve IFSA-Butler students (including violence and vandalism) both on campus and off
campus stem from the abuse of alcohol.
The penalties for drinking and driving are severe. If you are arrested for an alcohol-related crime, you are subject
to all local laws. IFSA-Butler does not provide legal support to students who are arrested.
Alcohol Abuse
If you are currently in a program to control your alcohol abuse, please inform us on the medical form that is
included in your acceptance email. Any information you relay to us will be kept confidential and will not affect
your ability to enroll in our program. We can help you find continued counseling and support abroad.
IFSA-Butler supports students who are actively working to control a substance abuse problem. However, we
cannot permit any type of illegal behavior or behavior that may result in danger to you or others. IFSA-Butler
reserves the right to remove from the program any student who behaves in a violent or self-destructive manner
or who is charged with an alcohol-related crime (also see the “Legal Matters” section on page 25 of this booklet).
Class Attendance
Students studying on an IFSA-Butler program are required to attend all regularly scheduled classes. Failure to
attend classes can result in loss of credit as stated in the program contract.
Completion of Final Exams and Course Work
Final exams are required in all of IFSA-Butler’s programs. Completing your exams as scheduled is mandatory. IFSAButler will not support requests for special exam arrangements. If you reschedule an exam, we will not institute
any academic follow-up or official grade queries for the course in which the exam was taken.
You must complete all academic obligations before leaving the host university. If you hand in essays after the
deadline, get a receipt. Be sure to keep a copy of all your essays and papers.
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You will receive a program calendar before leaving the United States and should verify that you do not have
scheduling conflicts with the deadlines and examination periods before enrolling. Do not confirm your plane
ticket home until the final exam schedule is distributed and confirmed.
Counseling
Students with pre-existing mental health conditions (including eating disorders, substance abuse problems and
depression) are particularly susceptible to increased stress while studying abroad. We ask that you fully disclose
to us any mental health condition before you depart so we can help to arrange counseling support to continue
after you arrive at your new university. Any information of this sort is strictly confidential.
We cannot emphasize strongly enough that students who are on medication for a mental health condition
should continue treatment unless advised by a physician to stop. Temporary changes in scenery can make
students feel overconfident that they are fine and no longer need their medication. Ceasing medication can
have disastrous effects. Please continue your regimen unless advised otherwise by a physician.
Discrimination
The majority of Mexicans will be interested in meeting you regardless of your background. However, as in the
United States, discrimination does exist abroad. You may notice various forms of anti-Americanism, racism, antiSemitism and homophobia. Discrimination is built on negative, simplistic stereotypes that are influenced by a
variety of factors, including the media. If you feel you are being discriminated against, please discuss it with our
staff abroad.
You might experience discrimination simply by virtue of living as a foreigner abroad. Anti-American sentiment
can wax and wane while you are abroad depending on the world political situation. Negative comments about
U.S. society and government parallel U.S. political involvement around the world. Discrimination usually takes
the form of negative comments rather than demonstrations or physical threats.
While discrimination can be very frustrating, try to keep in mind that one of the reasons you are studying
abroad is to learn about other cultures. Past students affected by discrimination have recommended that you
ignore any incidents and remember that the majority of Mexicans are welcoming.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are common among U.S. university students. However, the stress of studying abroad
sometimes causes these disorders to intensify. Our local IFSA-Butler offices can help you locate counselors
and/or support groups.
Gender Relations and Machismo
U.S. students tend to carry a stereotypical idea that gender roles are very traditional in Latin America and that
gender relations are defined by a principle of strong male dominance (machismo). U.S. students also have a
related tendency to assume that women are willing to be subservient to men, staying within the home, raising
families and arranging their time around anticipating the needs of their male relatives.
In much of Latin America, the traditional male-dominated structure is changing. It’s common for both parents to
have jobs outside the home, and even women who do not work outside the home have active lives in the
community. Women may seem to adhere to their male relatives’ wishes, but there is a sense that women rule
the home.
Both men and women should be aware that dating patterns might be very different in Mexico. A lot of it
depends on the context, relationships and cultural differences.
You will be surprised at the number of compliments (piropos) directed toward women. These comments are not
meant to be malicious or threatening; they are instead a sort of game. The best strategy is to act as any young
local woman would—just ignore these comments and keep walking.
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Hitchhiking
Do not hitchhike. You may be tempted, especially when traveling around the countryside. Local students may
tell you hitchhiking is safe, but hitchhiking is no safer abroad than in the United States.
Housing Expectations
We offer comparable accommodation to every student, but minor differences in living situations occur. Please
be flexible and give your host family time before becoming too critical. Remember, housing is guaranteed, but
your first choice of accommodation is not.
Illegal Drug Use
If you are found possessing, using or dealing drugs, you can and will be prosecuted. All local laws apply, and
your U.S. citizenship will not protect you. You may have to serve jail time.
As stated in the program contract, if you are arrested, we reserve the right to dismiss you from the program.
IFSA-Butler does not offer legal assistance to students arrested abroad.
Loneliness and Homesickness
Adjusting to a new way of life can be very stressful, and many students react by becoming homesick. We
encourage you to share your feelings with someone. Counseling services are available, and the IFSA-Butler
office is only a phone call away.
To combat homesickness, get involved in a sport or group. Keep a regular, healthy diet and exercise schedule,
get enough sleep and continue your hobbies. Call IFSA-Butler staff or your host university’s counseling services
for help if you feel overwhelmed.
Medication
If you are currently taking prescription medication for any reason, you should not alter your dosage without
consulting a physician. Not taking prescribed medication could have harmful results.
Sexual Harassment
IFSA-Butler does not tolerate sexual harassment among its employees or students. Any complaints will be
treated with confidentiality and sensitivity.
Sexual harassment may be described generally as unwanted sexual advances or behavior, such as physical
contact or verbal or written comments or suggestions that offend or intimidate and adversely affect the person.
Examples of sexual harassment include:
• Leering, patting, pinching
• Displays of offensive pictures, posters or graffiti
• Dirty jokes, derogatory comments, offensive written messages and offensive phone calls
• Ridiculing, leering, wolf whistling or making sexual comments at a person or group of people
Many victims of harassment do not report their experiences because they fear others may not believe them.
Feel free to talk to IFSA-Butler staff; they can give you the support you need to confront your harasser and stop
the problem. You also can contact the IFSA-Butler U.S. office for help.
Be aware of the fact that Latin Americans communicate in different ways. People tend to maintain closer
physical space. Sometimes they touch you while conversing (to make a point) or stare at you (to make eye
contact). Keep in mind the cultural context, and don’t misconstrue these cultural differences. At the same time,
be firm and let people know if you find that some of their actions are offensive or if you feel uncomfortable in
certain situations.
Sexual Health
Anyone who is sexually active can get or transmit a sexually transmitted disease. STDs are as large a health
threat abroad as they are in the United States, and you must take the same precautions that you would at
home.
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While condoms may be available in pharmacies, we recommend that you take condoms with you. If you use
birth control pills, bring enough for the entire summer, as well as the written prescription. You may need to
show it at customs.
Abortion is illegal in Mexico. Reduce your risk of sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancy by
behaving responsibly and protecting yourself.
Theft
Petty crime is a reality. Make sure that all doors and windows are locked at all times. We encourage you to leave
anything of great value or of sentimental value in the United States.
Students studying abroad have a tendency to trust people more than they would at home and to let down their
guard. During the IFSA-Butler orientation abroad, we focus on personal safety and teach you practical tips and
common-sense rules of living abroad. Remember, personal property insurance is not provided by IFSA-Butler, so
contact your insurance agent to obtain it.
Program Contract
Several of the student affairs issues covered in this section are also covered by the program contract, which all
students receive in their acceptance email. Program participants must sign the program contract; failure to do
so results in dismissal from the program. Students must return the signed contract to IFSA-Butler.
The program contract addresses the following topics: participation in the program, financial responsibilities,
refund rules and regulations, academic responsibilities, liability, medical and personal coverage, housing,
personal conduct and disciplinary action.
Culture Shock
Study abroad is not a vacation in a foreign country but an acculturation exercise, and you are expected to blend
in with and live like members of the new student population. You may become frustrated by all the daily
differences in standard of living and lack of conveniences: operating a phone, finding late shopping hours or
getting around on public transportation. The facilities available in the United States are not always available
abroad.
Students who study abroad may experience culture shock: a brief period of euphoria, followed by intense
homesickness and an acute dislike for everything about their host culture. That period of homesickness usually
passes quickly, as students settle comfortably into their host culture.
If you experience culture shock or loneliness for an extended time, phone our office abroad. Our staff have years
of experience assisting American students in adjusting, and they will gladly take the time to speak with you
about the challenges you are facing. We want to make sure that your study abroad is a success, both personally
and academically.
32
Solving Problems Abroad
We’ve already discussed the issue of culture shock, but other issues may arise that make your study abroad
experience more challenging. Our staff can assist you throughout your summer program.
If you experience a problem while abroad, please call our office abroad first. Our staff might be able to solve what
seems like a big problem relatively quickly. Remember, they live in the same time zone you do, deal with the
same officials you do and can be at your side in a short time if necessary.
Please don’t call your parents until after you have contacted our IFSA-Butler office abroad. Although your
parents can lend a sympathetic ear, they can’t help you solve the problem from the United States, and knowing
about it can cause them undue distress. Go to the IFSA-Butler office abroad first. Then you can call your parents
and let them know that steps are being taken to solve the issue.
Our mission is to help you make your study abroad experience as rewarding as possible. We’ll do all we can to
help you succeed abroad.
Summary
IFSA-Butler is here to help you solve any problems that arise. If you have a specific issue abroad, please contact
our IFSA-Butler Mexico office immediately.
We hope this booklet has addressed most of the questions you have and that it continues to be a resource for
you and your family throughout the study abroad period. Please consult the back of this guide for phone
numbers and addresses of our U.S. office if you need further explanation of any of the points in this guide.
33
Appendix I: Information Resources
Learn About Your Own Country
Before you go abroad, brush up on your understanding of U.S. government, history and foreign policy. Many
Latin Americans are keenly interested in these subjects, and you can expect to be asked your opinion on a
regular basis. Read newspapers and newsmagazines to keep current.
Travel Resources
Buy a good guidebook. We highly recommend both the Lonely Planet Guide and the Rough Guide. Other good
guidebooks are available, but be sure to buy a guide that is geared to the budget traveler. You should also
check out the following websites:
• Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University: www.ifsa-butler.org
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel
Check out current health recommendations for Mexico and any other country you are considering visiting.
• The Lonely Planet: www.lonelyplanet.com
• Turismo Mérida: www.merida.gob.mx/turismo
Current Events
The following sites are good places to search for Mexican news. If you use a search engine, type your keyword in
English and Spanish to get better results.
• El Universal: www.eluniversal.com.mx
• La Jornada: www.jornada.unam.mx
• Reforma: www.reforma.com
• Diario de Yucatán: www.yucatan.com.mx
Books
• Cohan, Tony, On Mexican Time
• Arguedas, José María, Deep Rivers
• Riding, Alan, Distant Neighbors: A Portrait of the Mexicans
• Paz, Octavio, The Labyrinth of Solitude and Other Writings
• Junman, Robert and Lewis, Tom, On Being Foreign: Culture Shock in Short Fiction
• Condon, John C., Good Neighbors: Communicating with the Mexicans
• Schaum’s Spanish Grammar
Films
Aside from practicing your Spanish, films can help place your host country in the right context and gain a better
understanding of the cultural landscapes and ethnic diversity. Following is a suggested list of films:
Como Agua para Chocolate (1992) de Alfonso Arau
Principio y Fin (1993) de Arturo Ripstein
El Jardín del Edén (1994) de María Novaro
El Callejón de los Milagros (1995) de Jorge Fons
Dos Crímenes (1995) de Roberto Sneider
Sin Remitente (1995) de Carlos Carrera
Cilantro y Perejil (1996) de Rafael Montero
El Coronel no Tiene Quien le Escriba (1999) de Arturo Ripstein
La Ley de Herodes (1999)
Todo el Poder (1999)
Amores Perros (2000)
El Tigre de Santa Julia (2000)
El Crimen del Padre Amaro (2000)
Nicotina (2001)
Rudo y Cursi (2008)
Arrancame la Vida (2008)
34
Appendix II: Language
Although Spanish is a language that links much of Latin America, there is variability in Spanish from country to
country as well as regionally within the same country. In Mexico you may run into some forms of Spanish that
you have not learned in the classroom. Idioms and slang also vary from country to country. With patience and
help from your host family and other students, you’ll be able to pick up country-specific slang and have a great
time doing it.
• Speak Spanish as much as possible: at home, at your university and with friends.
• Don’t be shy about making mistakes. Most people are quite patient and helpful. In fact, most of them feel
honored that you should want to learn their language and will be patiently receptive to your initial
stumbling and stammering. So keep struggling; it will soon come easily.
• Keep a notebook of new words. Whenever you hear a word you do not know, write it down. It then
becomes more familiar. You might want to divide a notebook into categories (e.g., adjectives, nouns, verbs,
useful phrases).
• Review your grammar: verb tenses (especially the subjunctive), gender of nouns and accordance of
articles and adjectives with nouns, prepositions and prepositional phrases, etc.
• Use an all-Spanish dictionary; you’ll learn more in the long run. It will take longer at first, but your
vocabulary will increase rapidly. You can purchase an inexpensive one in Mexico.
• Expose yourself to Spanish: listen to conversations and the radio, watch television and read newspapers.
The greater the exposure, the faster you learn.
Yucatequeando
Although not always grammatically correct, Yucatequando explains the many ways in which people have
developed and/or adapted the language to express themselves. Yucatequeando is only spoken in Mexico.
The ñ Sound
In Yucatán, people tend to eliminate the “ñ” sound and replace it with “ni.”
Standard
Yucatecan
niño
caña
cuña
ninio
cania
cunia
Ending “ía”
Yucatecos may replace the final “ía” with “illa.”
Standard
Yucatecan
sandía
había
sabía
sandilla
habilla
sabilla
Ending “n”
For those words that end in “n,” Yucatecos replace the “n” with an “m.”
Standard
Yucatecan
pan
bien
van
saben
pam
biem
vam
sabem
Usage of “Ll,” “ll”
Yucatecos pronounce the “ll” sound as a “sh.”
Standard
Yucatecan
llave
pollo
gallo
shave
posho
gasho
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Use of the Word “Negociar”
Anything you cannot remember the name of becomes a negociante. It’s the Yucatecan equivalent of
“whatdoyoucallit.” Examples of its usage are:
Negóciame el cierre.
Help me work the zipper.
Pásame ese negociante.
Get me that thing.
Use of the Word “Beneficiar”
When you distribute something, you beneficia something. For example, if you’re about to give out food, you will
beneficiar el pollo or beneficiar la pizza.
Subjects and Verbs
In the case of commonly used expressions, some verbs become subjects and some others are active even when
they should be passive.
Me pasé a caer.
I almost fell down!
Lo tengo conocido.
I have met him in the past.
Me quité de la casa...
I left home at...
Vocabulary
The Mayan influence is particularly evident in the particular use of words.
bobox
cabax
chen ha
chop
chihuó
chuc
fo
komó
perech
tuch
uay
wixar (pronounced wishar)
xic (pronounced shic)
xix (pronounced shish)
xux (pronounced shush)
bottom (Me duele el bobox.)
fast or simple (frijol cabax = simply beans)
alone or simply something (I only want pure water, or I want only water.)
poke your eye (No me hagas chop.)
large spider
to immerse something solid in liquid (Quiero hacer chuc el pan en el cafe.)
used to express a bad odor (¡Esto huele fo!)
when you can’t get rid of a smell (Este pollo tiene komó.)
straight (El camino es perech.)
belly button (Muéstrame el tuch.)
used to express surprise (¡Uay que bueno! ¡Uay que malo! ¡Uay que susto!)
to urinate (Quiero wixar.)
armpit (Te huele el xic.)
leftover (Quiero tomar el xix del vino.)
precocious (Ese niño es xux. or Ponte xux.)
36
Appendix III: About Us
Institute for Study Abroad
The Institute for Study Abroad is a nonprofit organization founded at Butler University to provide high-quality
international study opportunities, plus academic and personal support services, for qualified undergraduates at
U.S. universities seeking to earn academic credit through study abroad. While the Institute for Study Abroad is
affiliated with Butler University, it is not part of the university.
IFSA-Butler is organized to assist our students from the time they apply until after they return. Staff at the IFSAButler U.S. office and around the world is committed to our students. We help them develop realistic
expectations and adjust easily to the very different student lifestyles and academic expectations of their host
institutions.
For a list of programs available in Argentina, Australia, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Cuba, Egypt, England, India,
Mexico, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Israel, Peru, Republic of Ireland, Scotland, United Arab Emirates and
Wales, please check our website at www.ifsa-butler.org.
Butler University
Butler University is a nationally recognized, comprehensive university encompassing six colleges: Arts, Business,
Communication, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Together, these colleges offer more than 60 undergraduate majors, eight pre-professional majors, one first professional and 18
master’s degrees. Approximately 4,700 students are enrolled at Butler University, representing 45 states and 52
countries.
Approximately 77 percent of Butler University students will have participated in some form of internship, student teaching, clinical rotation, research or service learning by the time they graduate. In addition to this professional experience, Butler University students develop lifelong skills in critical thinking, effective communication,
cooperative teamwork and ethical decision making. Butler University endeavors to prepare students not simply
to make a living, but to live lives of purpose in which personal flourishing is intertwined with the welfare of
others.
37
IFSA-Butler Directory
Mexico Office
Resident Director:
Website:
Office Address:
Diana Arízaga
mexico.ifsa-butler.org
IFSA-Butler Mexico
Calle 25 No. 560 x 66
Colonia Jardines de Mérida
Mérida, YUC 97135
México
Student Mailing Address
Send all student mail to the IFSA-Butler program office, not the host family’s address. Address package as:
Student Name
IFSA-Butler Mexico
C/o Diana Arízaga
Calle 25 No. 560 x 66
Colonia Jardines de Mérida
Mérida, YUC 97135
México
When sending important documents, do not use the U.S. Postal Service because mail may arrive late or not at
all. Use DHL or Fed Ex. When people send you packages in Mexico, please tell them not to mark anything as
“food” or “cargo.” If they do, the package may get tied up in customs and you may have to pay a fee to get it
released.
U.S. Office
Telephone:
Fax Number:
Email:
Website:
Address:
317-940-9336; 800-858-0229
317-940-9704
[email protected]
www.ifsa-butler.org
Institute for Study Abroad
1100 W. 42nd Street, Suite 305
Indianapolis, IN 46208
38
Emergencies Abroad
Please take reasonable precautions while abroad. Avoid risky behavior, walking alone at night and exploring on
your own. Pay attention to warning signs. Carry a next-of-kin contact card in your wallet along with the
emergency contact wallet card we give you during orientation.
The emergency numbers of our offices abroad are for use after business hours or on weekends. The emergency
number is open only for emergency purposes; the staff can’t stay on the line with you if your concern can be
handled during regular business hours.
Although we give you a list of emergency numbers for you to use, our staff is happy to provide assistance to
you in times of emergency. Because you live with a host family, you will have the additional security of the
assistance of that family in an emergency.
Specific Emergencies
If you have been the victim of a crime or if there is a fire, call the police number immediately. Our offices abroad
will help you file a police report.
If you require immediate medical assistance, call the rescue number or emergency number (equivalent to 911).
In case of earthquakes or flooding, follow local emergency directions.
If you are hospitalized abroad, call the IFSA-Butler Mexico office immediately. We can help you with insurance
questions, translate for you and make sure you are looked after once you have been discharged.
If you have been arrested abroad, call the IFSA-Butler Mexico office emergency number. We can’t provide you
with legal help, but we can offer support.