In study abroad, as in other settings, parents and families can play an important role in the health and safety of participants by helping them make good decisions about their health and safety. Galen’s primary concern is to ensure the student’s time in Belize is safe and that students remain healthy. All international students are required to carry international health insurance that covers specific needs. The Galen Study Abroad staff can supply the needed details for this.

Students are responsible for all the elements necessary for their personal preparation and safety. They must participate fully in the two day orientation offered by Galen University. The National Association of International Educators (NAFSA) provides these pre-departure suggestions for those studying abroad:

1. Read and carefully consider all materials issued by the sponsor that relate to safety, health, legal, environmental, political, cultural, and religious conditions for Belize.
2. Conduct their own research on Belize as they plan with particular emphasis on health and safety concerns, as well as the social, cultural, and political situations.
3. Consider their physical and mental health, and other personal circumstances when applying for or accepting a place in a program, and make available to the sponsor accurate and complete physical and mental health information and any other personal data that is necessary in planning for a safe and healthy study abroad experience.
4. Obtain and maintain appropriate insurance coverage and abide by any conditions imposed by the carriers. Proof of Insurance is required for every international student.
5. Inform parents/guardians/families and any others who may need to know about their participation in the study abroad program, provide them with emergency contact information, and keep them informed of their whereabouts and activities.
6. Understand and comply with the terms of participation, codes of conduct, and emergency procedures of the program.
7. Be aware of local conditions and customs that may present health or safety risks when making daily choices and decisions. Promptly express any health or safety concerns to the program staff or other appropriate individuals before and/or during the program.
8. Accept responsibility for their own decisions and actions.
9. Obey host-country laws.
10. Behave in a manner that is respectful of the rights and well-being of others, and encourage others to behave in a similar manner.
11. Avoid illegal drugs and excessive or irresponsible consumption of alcohol.
12. Follow the program policies for keeping program staff informed of their whereabouts and well-being.
13. Become familiar with the procedures for obtaining emergency health and legal system services in the host county.