India: Innovating Change

Status

Closed

Trip Destination

India

Approximate Price

$1000 (After Grant Applied) *

Trip Date

04/20/2024

TO

05/04/2024

Application Deadline

01/29/2024

APPLY NOW

Cost Information

Cost for Domestic Students: $500-$1000 (includes IFS + BWR Course)
Cost for International Students: $1000 (includes IFS + BWR Course)
Cost for Students Not Willing to Take the BWR Course: ~$5000 (Full amount of IFS)

Above costs are for International Field Studies, for other programs please see the approximate cost listed above.

Program Information

This opportunity is available to all Niagara College students who: 

    • Are currently enrolled in and returning to their program at Niagara College 
    • Have not yet taken part in a Be World Ready IFS experience since beginning their studies at Niagara College 
    • Are in good academic standing at the time of selection and prior to departure 
    • Are actively enrolled in a program at Niagara College during the term(s) of travel 
    • Agree to enroll in and complete the mandatory General (SOCL 1128) or Liberal (IDPL 9103) elective course requirement 

Physical Intensity: Moderate to High

Physical Intensity

Accommodations

Meals

Steps to Apply

India: Innovating Change

Embark on an Academic Adventure with the Be World Ready course!

This dynamic course goes beyond the classroom, offering you the chance to sharpen problem-solving skills and analyze the world through both a global and local lens and preparing you to take meaningful action and make a positive impact in your communities.

As you gear up for your International Field Study, our pre-departure training awaits, covering cultural awareness, community engagement, and global leadership skills. Begin to understand Indigenous perspectives, enhance your career development, and gain global competencies, making you both work-ready and world-ready. Be World Ready is your ticket to academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and a future without bounds – the adventure begins now!

Picture this: A series of synchronous hybrid classes that seamlessly blend the virtual with the in-person bringing you together to meet your fellow learning cohort and your leads before you even step foot in the airport. This is not your typical NC course; it’s a dynamic experience that will truly prepare you for global success and your future career. Imagine immersing yourself in assignments and activities, some of which will unfold while you’re out there exploring the world – infusing the essence of international exploration into your coursework and onto your resume.

The Be World Ready course is free, because this is all about maximizing your learning experience and enhancing your IFS. Successful completion of the Be World Ready course isn’t just a checkbox; it’s your ticket to meeting our grant requirements.

Gear up for a course that promises to redefine your college experience. Learn more about the Be World Ready course and dive headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime! Check out our FAQs to get a sneak peek into what awaits you on this thrilling journey!

Empower, Explore, Evolve: An Indian Innovation Expedition with Niagara College

The Innovating Change program in India promotes a learning-first approach with lots of engagements with local changemakers while encouraging hands-on collaboration with several workshops and projects. Areas of critical focus in this program include social enterprise, sustainable communities, responsible consumption and production, and environmental conservation.

This program is accessible to most fitness levels but the number of community engagements combined with the variable and sometimes extreme climate, lots of travel, and a short hike in the Himalayas can make it feel highly physically intense. You will experience the combination of grassroots travel and community engagements as well as the local lodging, homecooked food, and off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Himalayas making the program highly immersive. Your accommodations and transportation will be comfortable and safe, but please anticipate a local and genuine experience in India; this is not a 5-star hotel experience.

Be thrilled by the hustle and bustle of Delhi, be calmed on the shores of the Ganges, be awed at the Taj Mahal, and be inspired by the mighty Himalayas. Travel to northern India and explore the world of social innovation and enterprise where continents collide and colour, flavour, and creativity burst from the seams.

From April 20 – May 4, you will travel with 14 NC peers and 2 NC staff, while you explore the world of social innovation and examine how Indian youth are mobilizing to address local, national, and global challenges in new and innovative ways. We’ll visit Delhi and learn from the next generation of change-makers before travelling to Rishikesh to experience a place where history, culture, and entrepreneurship come together. Finally, we’ll stay in Dharamsala where the Himalayas have inspired innovation for millennia. The combination of hands-on learning, cultural immersion, and adventure provides the perfect space for us to challenge ourselves and each other while reflecting on what the history, culture, theory, and practice of innovation in India can teach the world.

DEADLINE TO APPLY JANUARY 29, 2024 at 1:00PM

STEPS TO APPLY:

  1. First, complete the Eligibility Survey to make sure you qualify.
    • 5 minutes to complete
  2. Visit college’s website to register for the India: Innovating Change IFS
    • Approx. 30 minutes to complete, you will need a digital photo of your passport
  3. Confirmed eligible students will receive the instructions to make the $500 deposit due by January 29th, 2024 to confirm your seat.
    • 10 minutes to complete, you’ll need your method of payment (e-transfer details, or credit card) and your passport for this step.
  4. Receive email confirmation that your seat has been saved from [email protected].
  5. Get your suitcase out!

Travel Visa + Immigration Documentation:

Students are responsible for researching and applying for any required visa(s) or ETIAS on their own; Be World Ready is not able to apply for any travel visa(s) or ETIAS on your behalf. Be World Ready will provide you with supporting documentation 11 weeks before departure to apply for a Visa as long as you have confirmed your appointment date at [email protected]. All international students will need to ensure that their Study Permits and Student Visas are not expired before the date of return from the international experience, to ensure that there are no challenges upon reentry to Canada. Travel restrictions and requirements for entry to Canada may change at any time. All travellers are responsible for remaining up to date with any restrictions and requirements for travel and re-entry to Canada leading up to and throughout their International Field Study. Niagara College Canada will assume no responsibility for any changes to governing body travel restrictions, required documentation for travel or any refused entry as a result of change. Travellers are encouraged to review the Government of Canada Website for the latest restrictions and requirements for entry to Canada, as well as to check entry requirements to their destination country as a Canadian citizen. If an ETIAS is not acquired, a visa appointment is not secured, or if a visa application is rejected, Niagara College and Be World Ready are unable to refund any payments made. All payments made towards the International Field Study are final.

All international or domestic students, in full-time or part-time* status, and in good academic standing at Niagara College, are eligible for a Be World Ready grant to help offset the cost of their international experience. You must be actively enrolled in studies during the term of travel to participate. International Field Studies participation is permitted only for students who have not yet experienced a Be World Ready IFS since beginning their studies at Niagara College. Students will not directly receive grant money as the full value of the grant has already been applied to the final payment to offset the total cost of the learning experience abroad. For students who do not complete all grant requirements by established deadlines (including the time of submission), the full grant amount may be charged directly to their student account. Details on grant requirements will be shared with you as part of the mandatory Be World Ready (SOCL 1128 or IDPL 9103) course, which all students participating in a Be World Ready International Field Study must enroll in and successfully complete. Eligibility requirements can vary from term-to-term, and from one opportunity to the next. Please complete the eligibility quiz linked on the specific opportunity page to determine if you meet eligibility requirements.

*Part-time students, are defined by Be World Ready as those actively enrolled in a Niagara College program, taking a minimum of 2 classes during the term of travel that contribute to their program progression and credential completion. Students taking a class that does not contribute to a program would not qualify to participate in a Be World Ready International Field Study.

The Be World Ready course is mandatory for those attending an International Field Study (IFS). The course will be delivered in an accelerated 9-week format for the Spring 2024 cohort surrounding the IFS. The course will run from the week of March 4, 2024 – April  15, 2024, with a final virtual class during the week of May 6.

 

WEEK 1: MARCH 4 – 8, 2023 – BWR Course: BWR Competencies & UNSDGs – 3 Hours On-Campus

WEEK 2: MARCH 11 – 15, 2023 – BWR Course: Intercultural Awareness – 3 Hours Online

WEEK 3: MARCH 18 – 22, 2023 – BWR Course: Indigenous Perspectives – 3 Hours Online

WEEK 4: MARCH 25 – 29, 2023 – BWR Course: Community Engagement & Career Development – 3 Hours Online

WEEK 5: APRIL 1 – 5, 2023 – BWR Course: Pre-Departure Training – 3 Hours On-Campus

WEEK 6: APRIL 8 – 12, 2023 – BWR Course: Prepare for IFS – 3 Hours On-Campus

WEEK 7: APRIL 15 – 19, 2023 – BWR Course: Intercultural Reflective Learning & Leadership – 3 Hours Online

WEEK 8 and 9: APRIL 21 – MAY 3, 2023

IFS Trip – Daily Brief Breakdown

 

  • APRIL 21-22-23: Welcome and Orientation Delhi / All Meals Included
    • Upon arrival in Delhi, our group will immerse ourselves in the vibrant chaos of India’s capital. These initial days are designed for acclimatization as we dive into the rich tapestry of Delhi’s sights, sounds, and flavors. From sampling authentically spiced Indian curries to exploring magnificent palaces and bustling bazaars, we’ll begin our journey by absorbing the essence of this megacity. Cultural literacy training will deepen our understanding, preparing us for upcoming experiences. Our time in Delhi reaches a crescendo with participation in a social innovation conference and boot camp hosted by Haraworld. Here, we’ll engage with India’s young change-makers, gaining insights into innovative solutions and forging connections. Before departing for Agra, we’ll visit local organizations catalyzing positive change in and around Delhi, laying the groundwork for our exploration.
  • APRIL 24-25: Sheroes & Jewels Agra / All Meals Included
    • As the sun rises, we’ll witness the breathtaking spectacle of the Taj Mahal, an iconic symbol of India’s architectural brilliance. Our exploration extends to Agra, where we’ll visit the Sheroes Hangout, discovering how survivors of acid attacks have transformed a cafe into a supportive space for empowerment. These days will blend historical wonders with impactful social initiatives, providing a holistic view of Agra.
  • APRIL 26-27-28: The Oldest Guru Uttarkhand/ All Meals Included
    • Venturing north to Uttarkhand, we’ll arrive at APV, an “Environment School” fostering environmental education and mindfulness. Guided by the philosophy that education is a journey of inner evolution, we’ll engage with local teachers, staff, and students. Through shared activities like learning, cooking, farming, and trekking, we’ll critically reflect on ecotourism and explore how ancient Indian traditions can shape sustainable living.
  • APRIL 29-May 1: Cities & Sanctuaries Rishikesh / All Meals Included
    • Our journey takes a serene turn as we visit Rishikesh, the yoga capital and a sacred city along the Ganga river. Amidst the tranquility, we’ll find sanctuary, taking a breather before returning to Delhi’s hustle. Exploring ancient streets, centering ourselves, and witnessing the mesmerizing Aarti ritual, we’ll recharge for the upcoming adventures.
  • MAY 2-4: Disorientation Dharamshala / All Meals Included
    • Following the intense exploration, we’ll slow down in Dharamshala for two days of “disorientation.” This vital phase allows us to relax, unpack our experiences, and reflect on the transformative journey. Returning to Delhi for our final day, we’ll culminate with a celebratory rooftop dinner in Paharganj, cherishing our shared memories before bidding farewell at the airport.

WEEK 10: MAY 6 – 10, 2023 – BWR Course: Post-Trip Debrief – 3 Hours Online

 

Disclaimers: Be World Ready does their best to execute the itinerary as outlined above, however, all elements are subject to change based on availability or requirement to adapt due to circumstances outside of our control. Students are reminded that it is their responsibility to research the entry requirements to the destination countries visited per their nationality and vaccination status.

Eligibility: Participation in an International Field Study is available for students who have not yet taken part in a Be World Ready IFS experience since beginning their studies at Niagara College. Be World Ready attempts to have a balance of domestic and international students, and that weighs into our selection process. Participants must be in good academic standing at the time of selection and prior to departure, be actively enrolled in a program at Niagara College during the term of travel and returning to studies in either Spring 2024 or Fall 2024 terms. Students must confirm that they understand and agree to their enrollment in the General or Liberal elective course requirements. Students who have an outstanding general or liberal elective course requirement that needs to be satisfied will be prioritized, as the mandatory Be World Ready course will provide 3 general or liberal elective credits. 

DEADLINE TO APPLY JANUARY 29, 2024 at 1:00PM

STEPS TO APPLY:

1. First, complete the Eligibility Survey here to make sure you qualify.
o 5 minutes to complete

2. Click here to register for the India: Innovating Change IFS
o Approx. 30 minutes to complete, you will need a digital photo of your passport

3. Confirmed eligible students will receive the instructions to make the $500 deposit due by January 29th, 2024 to confirm your seat.
o 10 minutes to complete, you’ll need your method of payment (e-transfer details, or credit card) and your passport for this step

4. Receive email confirmation that your seat has been saved from [email protected]

5. Get your suitcase out!

* Price per student is in Canadian Dollars and reflects the Be World Ready (BWR) grant which has been applied to the total trip cost to heavily subsidize the rate per person. To qualify for the full value of the BWR grant, students must be enrolled in, and successfully complete the Be World Ready course (learn about the BWR course by clicking here). Assignments, travel requirements, and expectations will be clearly communicated by BWR staff prior to the start of term. Students who do not successfully complete the course risk not meeting the grant requirements, which could result in being charged back the full value of the grant (up to $6000, depending on the IFS). Please review the Grant Requirements section of the IFS webpage.

Included

  • Round-trip airfare, including 1 checked bag
  • Accommodations
    • Students will share rooms with assigned roommates (you will have the opportunity to select a roommate), each having their own bed.
    • Single accommodations, if desired, must be requested during registration. Additional fees may apply.
  • Travel Insurance
  • Transportation to/from Toronto
  • Meals as outlined in the itinerary
  • Activities as described in the daily itinerary
  • Ground transportation in the country
  • Rate per student is in Canadian Dollars and inclusive of taxes and fees

Not Included

  • Visa Fees (if necessary)
  • Passport (or any associated costs)
  • Meals not outlined in the daily itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Souvenirs
  • Departure taxes (otherwise known as an Exit Tax) or additional fees for items not noted as included, if applicable. An example of additional fees could be overweight baggage.
The Be World Ready program at Niagara College prepares you for global success through education, exchange, and international experience. This program offers you the opportunity to experience culturally diverse learning environments, understand different perspectives and connect practical skills with a global mindset to help you launch your career.
An international field study is a 7 – 10 day experience that incorporates both vocational and cultural elements, while visiting some of the world’s most famous sights! Many of our international field studies are customized for specific Schools and programs at Niagara College, allowing students to apply the skills learned in the classroom in a real-world setting. All international field studies depart during the Niagara College break weeks to ensure that students do not miss any classes.
All international field studies will include roundtrip airfare (where applicable), accommodations, travel insurance, entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary, and some meals as outlined in the itinerary. A detailed list of inclusions and exclusions will be viewable on the posted webpage for any international field study on our website. Participants can expect to purchase some meals on their own and will need to bring spending money for any souvenirs, extra excursions, incidentals or items of a personal nature.

No. All aspects noted as included in the overall cost of the selected international field study are mandatory with no exceptions made. Our international field studies are built using group pricing and it is important that we do not deviate from the inclusions as it could negatively impact our ability to offer fair pricing to all participants.

In addition to affecting group pricing, these are our Niagara College International Field Study policies, and we cannot deviate from them, as they are part of our risk mitigation and management.

No. Students are not able to book their own flight in any way or alter the flights confirmed by Be World Ready. The round-trip flights as confirmed by Be World Ready are part of the package pricing, and the group is to travel to and from the destination country together.

These are our Niagara College International Field Study policies, and we cannot deviate from them, as they are part of our risk mitigation and management.

Each international field study destination has different accommodation providers or themes. Accommodation types that are used may include a combination of dorm-style rooms, homestays, tourist class hotels, or occasionally hostels. We strive to ensure we use centrally located accommodation when in city centres, allowing our participants to explore their surroundings more easily. Private accommodation is not guaranteed.

Rooms will vary in style on each trip; however, they are commonly twin share (2 people to a room with separate beds where possible). Single rooms may be available for an additional room fee provided adequate notice is given to Be World Ready staff. We strive to ensure you have comfortable, affordable accommodations anywhere you travel.

Students will be given the opportunity to meet their fellow travellers before the deadline to submit their roommate requests. Be World Ready does their best to accommodate rooming requests, but please note that final rooming arrangements are subject to room occupancy requirements and availability. A rooming list will be created by Be World Ready staff and shared with our accommodation providers before your departure. All participants will be emailed and will have the opportunity to identify their preferred roommate(s). While we will make every effort to ensure all preferences are met, we cannot guarantee it.

As long as they are current full-time Niagara College students and meet the program eligibility requirements. Unfortunately, we are not able to accept any persons to participate in any of our international field studies that are not current full-time students at Niagara College.

In addition to regular communications shared with participants leading up to the departure of their international field study of choice, Be World Ready requires students to attend the Be World Ready course, which includes but is not limited to, online trainings and pre-departure training sessions. During the pre-departure training sessions, students will be presented with the overall expectations of the trip as well as in-depth details concerning their itinerary.

During their time abroad, students will be able to communicate with their trip leads directly, 24/7, with any questions or concerns.

All participants are required to hold a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond any expected date of return to participate in any opportunity involving outbound travel.

You are responsible for researching and applying for any required visa(s) on your own. Be World Ready is unable to tell you what visa you require and how to apply. Be World Ready will provide you with supporting documentation as needed to apply for a Visa. While Be World Ready is not able to advise or guide you in a heightened level of detail through any particular visa process, you may consider hiring a travel visa service to assist you with the visa application process, such as CIBT visas. Please note that Be World Ready and Niagara College do not endorse any third-party vendors, nor have any influence or control over any outcomes or services rendered. We cannot apply for a visa on behalf of any participant.

All international students will need to ensure that their Study Permits and Student Visas are not expired before the date of return from the international experience, to ensure that there are no challenges with reentry to Canada.

Yes, while it is great to have a Nexus card, all participants must hold a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond any expected date of return in order to participate in any opportunity outside of Canada.
Depending on your destination country, we encourage you to book an appointment with a travel health professional regarding any additional vaccinations and medications you may need. It is strongly encouraged that you book an appointment with the Campus Nurse to go over this information. To do so, please visit the medical office to book an appointment at your respective campus.
Be World Ready takes the safety of our staff and students very seriously and has a rigorous risk management assessment when creating all opportunities. Be World Ready staff monitor destination country risk levels as communicated by the Government of Canada. Your safety is the most important aspect of this trip. Be World Ready and Niagara College take all possible precautions to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable experience while travelling abroad.
Students who sign up during the active promotional period for the international field study will be presented with a payment schedule to follow. At time of registration, students will be only required to pay the full non-refundable deposit that is disclosed at time of registration. Students who are permitted to sign up late will be expected to catch up on any payments missed according to the payment schedule advertised. In some instances, there may only be one payment due date.
Complete the eligibility quiz linked on the webpage of the International Field Study you’re interested in to find out if you meet eligibility requirements.
No. Students will not directly receive grant money as the full value of the grant has already been applied to the final payment to offset the total cost of the learning experience abroad. For students who do not complete all grant requirements by established deadlines (including the time of submission), the full grant amount may be charged directly to their student account. Details on grant requirements will be shared with you as part of the mandatory Be World Ready (SOCL 1128 or IDPL 9103) course, which all students participating in a Be World Ready International Field Study must enroll in and successfully complete to receive funding.
Students are only permitted to travel on an IFS to their home country if the IFS is program specific. IFS’ that are open to students from all programs do not permit students to travel if the destination is their home country. The purpose of the grant funding is to help students gain global competencies that they would not otherwise be exposed to, and as such, travelling to destinations they’ve previously lived in does not support this goal.
Students have the potential to travel and receive funding through Be World Ready up to 2 times; students can travel once on either an International Field Study, Summer Institute, or Semester Exchange, and they can potentially travel again for a Work Abroad opportunity (if eligibility requirements are met – please note that if more applications are received than work abroad grants available, priority will be given to those who have never travelled on any type of Be World Ready experience before). So, if you’re wanting to travel on an International Field Study, note that participation on an IFS is permitted only for students who have not yet experienced a Be World Ready IFS, Summer Institute, or Semester Exchange since beginning their studies at Niagara College.

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Be World Ready
Niagara College

100 Niagara College Blvd
Welland, Ontario
L3C 7L3, Canada

[email protected]

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