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Resources & Costs for the Program

"Study abroad experiences are important, especially when it is research focused. You can apply what you are learning to the context... I had taken statistics, but did not know how to apply it. [Through the GHSA program] I learned SPSS, I learned how to present my project and how to present myself at conferences."

~ Sandy Saint Hilaire, 2018 GHSA Cohort, Honors College Fellow





Studying abroad now is considered commonplace; graduate programs and medical schools often look at these experiences as evidence of a student's ability to work independently, maturity to handle ever changing situations, and comfort working with diverse populations. Also, when you finish your GHSA Fellowship, you will return with a new perspective on culture, skills, a great education, and a willingness to learn. Needless to say, all of these are very attractive to future gradaute programs and employers.

The cost of study abroad can seem overwhelming. In fact, potential cost is most often cited as the single largest nonacademic deterrent among students interested in participating in study abroad programs. Students typically use a combination of financial aid, scholarships, and personal funds towards their experience. So while it can be done, we recognize it may seem overwhelming. We do not want cost to be the primary barrier facing a student wanting to participate. So, please contact Dr. Stephens about funding opportunities before assuming participating in the GHSA program is not financially realistic.

Many GHSA Fellows have be awarded funding that covered most- if not all- of their program total costs. This because we provide selected GHSA Fellows with a comprehensive list of funding opportunities and offer related assistance with the funding awards' application process. This will include helping GHSA Fellows develop personal statements, securing letters of support, and preparing other required application materials. Although we will can connect fellows with resources available to fund their study abroad experience, early planning is key for being able to take advantage of these awards.

Costs & Resources

What the program costs cover


All Accomodations

Fellows and the GHSA Program Director will live in a full service hotel; there will be two students per room. These air-conditioned western style accomodations include daily housekeeping, breakfast, wifi and television. There is also a full bathroom within each room that includes a hot/cold shower. A security guard and front desk staff are present 24 hours a day. Also, since it is located in the center of Mysore's middle class community you will find that accessing restaurants, stores and other amenities is easy and safe.


Daily Breakfast, Lunch, Tea Breaks, and most Dinners

The cost of food can add up quickly! That's why daily breakfast and lunch is included in the program cost. Additionally, students will experience the British influence in India as we break for tea twice a day. Whether it's restaurant offerings, group meals in the research center or on- the- go eating during excursions, you will taste the local flavors. Some dinners are not included as students often prefer trying out different offerings during their down time. This is ideal as eating well in Mysore is very inexpensive! A typical restaurant dinner- including drinks and dessert- averages the equivalent of $7.


All Cultural Activities and Excursions- including entry fees and tips

Learning for this program is not grounded in the classroom. The Global Health Study Abroad program centers activities and trips that give you more of the local flavor while complementing your academic studies. Tentatively scheduled trips include a multi day overnight train tour, elephant preserve, Mysuru Palace, the Stone Temples, Coorge Falls, Somnathpur Temples, Namdroling Monastery, Chamundi Hills and visits to rural communities. All fees associated with these trips are covered by the program costs, including all meals during the excursions.


All Transportation while in India

From the time you land in India to the last day in Mysore, all program travel will be taken care of. This includes the shuttle from the airport to Mysore, all excursion shuttles, and daily transportation. Even the overnight train trip is included in the program costs. Only the shuttle from Mysore to the airport is not included as many students make other travel plans at the end of the program. However, we always arrange a group shuttle at an additional cost for those scheduled to leave Mysore at the same time.


Daily Private Group Yoga Class

Experience yoga in the birthplace of Ashtanga and Mysore yoga! We have arranged daily for group lessons from a local professional yogi as part of the program; only GHSA fellows participate in these sessions. Group Yoga classes are a great way to share and explore technique and movement while building upon the collective energy in the room. The class is set up to ensure all levels of skill feel they are benefiting form the experience. Every class will be grounded in proper alignment, breath work and mind body awareness.


Travel Medical Insurance

Since your U.S. based insurance coverage likely does not include studying abroad, all participants in FIU Study Abroad programs receive travel insurance from a reputable carrier. Coverage includes an insurance and assistance package including 24/7 emergency support, medical insurance and baggage insurance.


U.S.- based FIU Support Services.

From the moment you apply, the FIU Office of Study Abroad's support services provides pre-departure assistance, academic advice, financial aid transfer, visa assistance and so much more. They will have regular contact with the program leaders and oversee the adminstration of the program from the day you are selected to the end of the summer semester.


India- based PHRII Support Services.

Students will have access to Public Health Research Institute of India (PHRII) administrative and medical support staff in Mysore. PHRII is available to providing guidance on issues relating to travel, cultural negotiations, access to health care and more. Remember, PHRII is a National Institutes for Health (NIH) research site so they have years of experience working with researchers and students visiting their site and Mysore. Also, PHRII is a registered medical clinic with onsite physicians and medical staff, so students will have immediate access to healthcare providers. Clearly, PHRII's local knowledge and expertise enables you to get the most out of your experience.


WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

The roundtrip flight, India evisa, FIU Summer tuition (six credits), and some dinners are not included. Additionally, prior students have found that $300 is enough for spending money. This would be for gifts, leisure activities and shopping during the one month in India, as all other expenses are covered in the cost of the program.