In the group’s best interest your leaders expect everyone on this trip to conduct themselves with maturity and mutual respect.  (Note: These rules and expectations are modeled closely on those used by Calvin College.) Specifically, we expect:

DILIGENCE:

We are engaged in an accredited academic enterprise, not a tourist trip.  There will be ample opportunity for relaxation and fun, but we expect you to complete all assignments on schedule, participate in all activities fully, be prompt for all group meetings and departures, and seek to maximize the intellectual benefits of the trip.  Please do not indulge in any selfish behavior which will detract from our main purpose.

COURTESY:

We are guests in a foreign land and should do nothing to offend the hospitality of our hosts or leave the impression that we are “ugly Americans.”  I promise that I will:

·         treat all people with respect: loud, rude, or impatient conduct is offensive;

·         avoid any public criticism of the local culture (politics, religion, food, or whatever);

·         be attentive to our guides and patient if their “style” is not the same as ours. (Asking questions and showing genuine interest are good ways of indicating your respect.)

SAFETY:

We will be on unfamiliar ground and, in these days of security concerns, prudence demands that we take common-sense precautions.  I promise that on this trip I will:

·         never discuss the group’s schedule or itinerary with strangers and never invite a stranger to

      our hotel or other meeting spots;

·         avoid drawing attention to ourselves; dress conservatively & speak quietly;

·         be alert at all times to those around us, especially in crowds & on public transport;

·         never go out alone, especially at night or to deserted places (stay in groups and make sure others know where you are and when you will return);

·         never accept invitations from strangers or accompany them to private locations;

·         carry the minimum amount of valuables necessary, and never put them in backpacks, fanny packs, or outside pockets (use moneybelt, neck pouch, or the hotel safe);

·         keep the tour leader informed of my whereabouts at all times.

RESPONSIBILITY:

In matters of personal conduct, we expect participants to act as good ambassadors for Monmouth College and for the United States and in the group’s best interests.  I promise that on this trip I will:

·         abide by the laws of the country we are in;

·         not smoke on the bus or during group activities;

·         not abuse alcohol at any time;

·         not use illegal drugs; penalties for possession of are extremely severe in many countries;

·         not engage in any late-night activity that would prevent readiness for group activities at 8 a.m.;

·         not conduct myself in ways detrimental to the welfare of the group;

·         faithfully participate in all group activities;

·         will “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints” on archaeological sites

FLEXIBILITY:

In spite of our plans, there may be times when the weather is bad, something may be closed, our rooms may not be perfect, etc.  In these situations patience and a sense of humor are vital.  If you have complaints, bring them to the professors first, not to our hosts.

STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING:

I have read and understand that while traveling under the aegis of Monmouth College I am to adhere to the rules and regulations outlined in the Monmouth College Scots’ Guide.  Further I have taken special note of the off-campus polices and procedures located in the Scots’ Guide at http://department.monm.edu/stuserv/student-handbook/off-campus-programs.htm I understand that if I fail to adhere to these policies and procedures, the instructor in the class has the right to direct me to withdraw immediately from the course and return home at my own expense.  I further understand that I would bear any additional costs involved in the trip home and that I would receive no credit for the course.

___________________________________        ________________________

NAME (Please sign AND print your name.)           DATE