You’re coming with us to Poland! This Checklist and Handbook is all about getting you ready for your time in Poznan. There are a number of things you will need to do.
Make sure you read through this Checklist & Handbook thoroughly and add due dates to your calendar now.
Be aware this will be updated with additional information as our departure date approaches, so check back regularly to be sure you are prepared for our trip!
❒ Complete and return your enrollment packet
❒ Upload a scan of your passport photo page
❒ Complete required forms in the portal (personal information and medical history)
❒ Upload a copy of your immunization record to the portal
❒ Upload a copy of your COVID 19 vaccination card to the portal
❒ Book your domestic travel to and from the designated departure airport within the designated arrival and departure windows
❒ Upload your domestic flight details to the portal
❒ Decide on a way you and your family will keep in touch (Skype, Whatsapp, FaceTime, research international phone plans, etc.)
❒ Decide with your family how you will pay for personal expenses while traveling
❒ Call your bank or credit card company to notify them of upcoming travel
❒ Get currency exchanged to Polish złoty
❒ Purchase stock of FFP2 face masks (18+ extras)
❒ Get negative COVID-19 test prior to departure (read guidelines in COVID-19 section carefully)
❒ Check the weather often prior to departure
❒ Practice social distancing prior to departure to minimize risk of contracting COVID-19
❒ Purchase additional trip insurance coverage
❒ Update any special dietary requirements in the portal
❒ Purchase and pack two COVID-19 at home tests for emergency use
All students are required to complete an enrollment packet before they attend FDA. If you have not already returned a completed packet to our Admissions Team you may do so here.
In order to book your international flights, we must have a scan of your passport photo page. Check your passport is valid through January 16, 2023, and upload a scan as soon as you can.
Apply for or renew your passport if you need to. Remember, passports can take up to four weeks to arrive.
Do you have a foreign passport? If you are a citizen of any country other than the USA and require a visa to enter the USA, please be sure to upload a scan of this document in the “OTHER” section below.
Again, you only need to submit this information in full once. But, if you need to update anything, you can resubmit your information anytime.
If you require medical treatment during your time at FutureDocs Abroad, and you have not fully completed this medical information and insurance form, the hospital may delay your treatment until they receive this information.
Please be sure to complete ALL of this form, including insurance information.
Please ensure this document is from your doctor or travel clinic and clearly states your name. Documentation of immunizations and tests required to access the clinical facilities must be uploaded no later than March 30, 2022.
Once you receive our international flight information, please plan your domestic travel and submit the information below. We need this information no later than April 30, 2022 to check that you will arrive on time and so that we can track your flight on departure day.
Upload a copy of your COVID Vaccination Card
1) If you have a foreign passport, please upload a scan of your visa or green card below for re-entry to the USA
As a reminder, you signed the following Code of Conduct Agreement as part of your enrollment:
As a student enrolled in FutureDocs Abroad, I agree to the following expectations with regard to safety and conduct.
I agree to complete to the best of my ability all aspects of the FutureDocs Abroad Program and successfully participate both as an individual and a representative of The National Leadership Academies. I agree to conduct myself in such a way that supports my own learning, and supports the learning of my peers, the teaching of physicians, and the guidance of the chaperones.
FutureDocs Abroad is an alcohol-, smoking-, and substance-abuse-free experience. I agree to refrain from use of these substances as well as any illegal substances.
I agree to not engage in any behaviors that will put my health or life at risk, such as but not limited to departing from the scheduled itinerary and tour, entering restricted areas of host medical school and medical centers, entering financial agreements with locals, inviting strangers into the program or hotel, and providing locals with personal information such as passport information, credit/debit card information (other than secure bank/vendor), home addresses, and phone numbers.
I agree to remain in the assigned hotel or dormitory room as indicated by staff. Any changes or breach of this security precaution could lead to expulsion from the program.
I agree to maintain all required dress code standards as set forth by FutureDocs Abroad staff or requested by participating medical school/medical center policies. I also agree to remain with my assigned mentors, physicians, or other assigned staff at all site visit locations.
I agree to abide by the host university or institution’s standards and requirements.
I understand not complying with the above-mentioned expectations may result in dismissal from the program and return to the United States at my and my parent’s or guardian’s expense.
I agree to make FutureDocs Abroad administrators and staff aware as soon as possible of any difficulties I may encounter regarding my health, safety, finances, or any other issue that I consider serious or should be disclosed.
Attending FutureDocs Abroad isn’t just big news to your family, it’s also the kind of news your community papers, radio stations, and even television stations like to share!
We’ve created a template for you to use to create your very own News Release. Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Copy the News Release text below and paste into a document editor.
Step 2: Complete the information to personalize your news release with your name, hometown, and school. Then print the completed document.
Step 3: Create a cover letter from you that lets the reporter know more about you (hobbies, honors, other awards or sports). Optional: Attach a picture (a nice touch).
Step 4: Create a distribution list of local newspapers and magazines (include your school paper), radio stations, and television stations. Go online to find addresses. You can also distribute your news release to reporters email addresses.
Step 5: Send your letters and news releases to the attention of the City Editor at newspapers, the Assignment Desk at television stations, and the Station Manager at radio stations. It is not necessary to research their name, just send to the title.
If you talk with a reporter, be prepared to talk about yourself. You may want to prepare some bullet points about why you’re so passionate about medicine. If they have any questions about the program or the organization, have them call Lisa Rossi at 202-599-8442, extension 701.
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[Student First and Last Name] to Attend FutureDocs Abroad in Poznan, Poland
[Your city/town, state] – [Student First and Last Name], a [Grade] at [Your School] of [Town/City] will attend a summer honors program in Poland from July 2 to July 16, 2022.
FutureDocs Abroad is an honors-only program that allows undergraduate students to access what only third and fourth-year medical students can in the United States. The purpose of this internship is to honor, inspire, motivate, and direct the top students in the country who aspire to have careers in medicine, to stay true to their dream and, after the program, to provide a path, plan, and resources to help them reach their goal.
“[Insert a great quote from you about what you’re most excited for during your time in Poland. Perhaps about what you’re going to learn and/or experience.],” says [Student First Name].
During the two-week program, [Student First Name] will join students from across the United States and spend time observing surgeries taking place in the operating room, with the surgeon explaining the procedure as it’s being performed.
[Student First Name] will be in the gross anatomy lab with an anatomy professor, learning about the anatomy and proper dissection of human cadavers and practicing dissection techniques on animal parts.
And [he/she/they] will also shadow physicians in the Emergency Room, clinics, and wards in over a dozen areas of specialty (pediatrics, oncology, surgery, orthopedics, OB/GYN, and more).
FutureDocs Abroad is a program of The National Leadership Academies, which was founded on the belief that strong emotional intelligence is the cornerstone of student success and is committed to supporting students in their development. The National Leadership Academies also recognizes that prospective talent must be identified at the earliest possible age and help must be given to these students to acquire the necessary experience and skills to take them to the doorstep of vital careers as leaders and in the fields of medicine and the sciences.
For more information please visit www.TheNationalLeadershipAcademies.com or call (888) 986-6563.
Your passport will need to be valid through January 16, 2023, in order to enter Poland. Polish immigration requires all passports to have at least 6 months’ validity beyond our departure date from Poland. Check the expiration date on your passport.
If your passport is VALID through January 16, 2023, take a picture of the photo page of your passport and send it to our Admissions Team immediately.
If your passport is NOT VALID through January 16, 2023, visit the State Department website for instructions on how to renew your passport.
If you DO NOT HAVE A PASSPORT visit the State Department website for instructions on how to apply for a passport.
NOTE: Passports can take up to four weeks to arrive, so please make sure you apply immediately to avoid delays. All students are required to have a valid passport book to travel to Poland. Passport cards are not valid for international travel to Poland.
Also, confirm that you have signed your passport on the page opposite the photo page. A U.S. passport is only valid once it is signed! If you have NOT signed your passport, use a non-ballpoint pen and make sure the ink is dry before closing your passport.
We recommend that you add your contact information in pencil on the Personal Data and Contact Information page. If you lose your passport, this will give you the best chance of getting it back.
If you are a citizen of any country other than the USA, and require a visa to enter the USA, please be sure to upload a scan of this document along with a scan of your passport photo page.
It is REQUIRED that all students be up-to-date on all routine immunizations stated by the CDC website, including:
❒ DTAP
❒ Hepatitis A
❒ Hepatitis B
❒ Meningococcal
❒ MMR
❒ Varicella (Chickenpox)
You will need to upload a record from your physician that shows you are up-to-date with the above immunizations.
To access the clinical facilities in Poznan, students are also REQUIRED to have:
❒ an Epidemiology check-up for salmonella & shigella (This is a stool test and should be conducted no more than 3 months prior to departure)
Please schedule a visit with your physician’s office or a travel clinic to obtain this additional test and be sure to request a copy of the results of this health test as well as your routine immunization record, as you are required to upload a copy to the portal by no later than April 30, 2022.
All students traveling with FutureDocs Abroad Poland this summer must be vaccinated with at least two doses. COVID vaccinations are now available to all individuals 5+ within the USA.
While Poland does not require a COVID vaccination to enter the country at this time, Germany, our transiting country does.
Additionally, our host University and Hospital facilities have requested all students be vaccinated before arrival to rotate in the medical facilities during the program. Any of the four vaccines available in the U.S., Pfizer, Moderna, Astra or J&J, are acceptable.
A copy of your vaccination card, in English, should be uploaded to the portal as soon as possible. Please be in contact with our admissions office if you have questions.
Note this is in addition to other required vaccinations above.
Please note, the information below is based on CURRENT Polish BorderGuard guidelines as of May 23, 2022. These may change as we get closer to departure day, but we ask that you start to prepare within these current guidelines so that you’re ready for departure.
We will keep you up-to-date with changes and, of course, are available to discuss requirements any time on 888-986-6563.
TESTING REQUIREMENTS TO ENTER POLAND AND TRANSIT GERMANY
All restrictions on travel to the Republic of Poland are lifted, which means there is no obligation to present COVID certificates when crossing the border, or test for SARS-CoV-2 prior to departure. However, Germany requires ALL non-EU citizens to be vaccinated with an approved vaccine and at least 2 doses. Our international flight includes a layover in Frankfurt, Germany, on both outbound and inbound flights.
This means that you no longer need to get a COVID test prior to departure. However, you MUST have a copy of your COVID vaccination record with you, either digitally or physically, to check in with Lufthansa Airlines at JFK airport on July 2.
You must upload a copy of your vaccination record to the portal. If you haven’t already done so.
IMPORTANT: Please read through this carefully with your parents/guardians and take immediate action on the 5 items listed below in the lead up to FutureDocs Abroad liftoff.
1) It’s advisable to test regularly for COVID-19 in the lead-up to departure. Even when fully vaccinated.
2) Please ensure you are being extra careful in the lead-up to departure for FDA. Do your best to social distance and wear a mask whenever you are in a public space and avoid large gatherings all together. This is no time to bend the rules.
3) It is strongly recommended to purchase individual travel insurance coverage. FutureDocs Abroad tuition includes international medical insurance; however, during these difficult and trying times, we do suggest you explore additional trip insurance.
5) If you haven’t already been vaccinated, consider your options and book an appointment as soon as possible. Upload a copy of your vaccination card to the portal by no later than March 30. Again, be in contact with our offices if you have questions on this.
6) Both Lufthansa Airlines and Poznan University stipulate all passengers/students to use FFP2 face masks while traveling and rotating in the University facilities. Please ensure you pack enough supply for a new mask for each rotation (18 + extras). In addition, it is recommended you have hand sanitizer with you at all times.
CURRENT COVID-19 TESTING FOR RE-ENTRY TO USA
Starting at 12:01 a.m. EDT on June 12, 2022, the CDC will no longer order air passengers to show a negative COVID-19 test result, or show documentation of recovery from COVID-19, prior to boarding a flight to the United States.
You are responsible for booking your domestic travel⏤to and from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and your hometown.
YOU MUST book, confirm, and upload your flight details to the portal no later than April 30, 2022. Please be sure to read this entire email for useful information on booking your domestic travel.
GROUP 1 & 2
OUTBOUND FLIGHT
Departure Airport: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Departure Time: 9:50 PM EDT on Saturday, July 2, 2022
Flight Numbers: LH 405, LH 1390
Route: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Frankfurt (FRA), Poznan (POZ)
Arrival Airport: Poznan (POZ)
Arrival Time: 2:15 PM CET on Sunday, July 3, 2022
Suggested arrival window at JFK for international departure:
Our flight to Poland is scheduled to depart from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York on July 2nd at 9:50 PM local time. You must book your flight from your home airport to JFK to arrive between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM EDT on Saturday, July 2nd.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Flight schedules are subject to change. Should changes occur, that will affect the suggested arrival window, we will inform you by email immediately.
Meeting Point: John F. Kennedy Airport, Terminal 1, International Departures, Lufthansa check-in desk
Arriving in the specified window will give you a minimum of 4 hours before your scheduled international flight departure time. This is to allow for any delays/cancellations and time needed to collect your luggage that may subsequently result in you missing your connecting international flight.
After you have collected your luggage, you will need to make your way to Terminal 1, International Departures and the Lufthansa Airways check-in counter. Here you will check-in with a FutureDocs Abroad team member.
It is crucial that you check in with the FutureDocs Abroad team. You SHOULD NOT check-in for our international flight without the group.
Special notes to remember for flying to JFK:
What to do if you can’t find your group meeting point
Please call the team leader (number to be released 1 month prior to departure date) who will be able to direct you to the meeting point.
Group check-in time for international flight:
Group 1 & 2 will begin check-in together for the international flight to Poland at 6:50 PM and shortly after will move through security. NOTE: The group will not wait for individuals unless we are aware of delays.
INBOUND FLIGHT TO USA
GROUP 1:
INBOUND FLIGHT TO USA
Departure Airport: Poznan (POZ)
Departure Time: 6:20 AM CET on Saturday, July 16, 2022
Flight Numbers: LH 1381, LH 400
Route: Poznan (POZ), Frankfurt (FRA), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Arrival Airport: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Arrival Time: 1:35 PM EST on Saturday, July 16, 2022
When to Depart from JFK: Saturday, July 16th after 4:30 PM
Suggested domestic departure window from the inbound international flight:
Our inbound flight from Poland is scheduled to arrive at JFK on Saturday, July 16 at 1:35 PM EST.
Domestic departures should be scheduled for Saturday, July 16th. You must book your domestic flight back to your hometown to depart between 4:30 and 10:00 PM from JFK on Saturday, July 16th.
GROUP 2:
INBOUND FLIGHT TO USA
Departure Airport: Poznan (POZ)
Departure Time:2:55 PM CET on Saturday, July 16, 2022
Flight Numbers: LH 1391, LH 404
Route: Poznan (POZ), Frankfurt (FRA), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Arrival Airport: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Arrival Time: 8:05 PM EST on Saturday, July 16, 2022
When to Depart from JFK: Saturday, July 16th after 11:00 PM
Suggested domestic departure window from the inbound international flight:
Our inbound flight from Poland is scheduled to arrive at JFK on Saturday, July 16 at 8:05 PM EST.
Domestic departures should be scheduled for Saturday, July 16th. You must book your domestic flight back to your hometown to depart between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM from JFK on Saturday, July 16 -17th.
Remember, once we land on July 16th, you will need to clear customs and collect your luggage. It is strongly suggested to leave plenty of time between your international flight arrival and domestic flight departure.
Remember, once you have cleared customs you will also need to take the Air train or walk to whichever domestic terminal your flight is leaving from and make your way to the airline check-in for your domestic flight back to your hometown.
Departing after the suggested departure time will give you a minimum of 3 hours before your scheduled domestic departure. This is to allow for any delays that may subsequently result in you missing your domestic flight and expected time it will take to get through immigration, baggage claim, customs, and to re-check your bag.
| Rebecca | A |
| Briannah | A |
| Zoe | A |
| Rebecca | B |
| Owen | B |
| Katherine | B |
| Jigish | B |
| Maddyn | B |
| Rikki | C |
| Katerina | D |
| Jalan | D |
| Natalie | D |
| Zachary | E |
| Nicole | E |
| Melanie | G |
| Eleni | G |
| Adrianna | G |
| Mia | H |
| Mia | H |
| Caitlin | H |
| Lillie | H |
| Nathan | I |
| Alexis | J |
| Emily | K |
| Isabella | K |
| Maria | K |
| Reagan | L |
| Tyler | L |
| Hadassah | L |
| Kimberly | L |
| Yee Hang Ethan | M |
| Yesnia | M |
Mikayla M
Moin M
| Sophia | P |
| Jack | P |
| Geordie | R |
| Chaenelle | R |
| Sara | RM |
| Arlette | R |
| Kate | R |
| Maritza | R |
| Leeva | S |
| Aaron | S |
| Rachel | S |
| Cade | S |
| Caden | S |
| Olivia | T |
| Sienna | T |
| Alexandra | T |
| Adaora | U |
| Sylvana | V |
| Jessica | W |
| Camilla | W |
| Ainsley | W |
All students will be provided with an official, stamped admission letter from Poznan University along with confirmation of accommodations to present at the border.
You must have a printed color copy of these documents–which we will send to you via email–in hand on arrival in Poland.
Please visit the Lufthansa Airlines website for baggage policies.
NOTE: All students will be traveling in economy class. Checked baggage in excess of the airline’s free checked baggage allowance, and any domestic airline baggage fees, are not included in the program tuition cost and are the responsibility of the student. It is advisable to bring only 1 carry-on bag and 1 checked bag. The savvy traveler will restrict luggage to one carry-on bag and one checked bag to limit the possibility of lost items. Please read our packing list carefully for a detailed breakdown of what to pack in each bag.
To help with booking your flights to and from your hometown, FutureDocs Abroad has partnered with StudentUniverse to assist our students and their families in finding the most convenient routes and affordable prices.
StudentUniverse is the world’s leading travel booking service for students and youth. Their unique pricing and terms are negotiated specifically for this demographic through contracts with dozens of world-class partners and more than 90 airlines. Membership is free.
The information below is to prepare you for the arrival process in Poznan. Be sure to read through this very carefully.
In preparation to go through Passport Control, make sure you have:
❒ Your passport in hand
❒ The full name and address of the dorms in Poland:
Dom Studencki Karolek
Administracja – Mirosław Jackowiak
Ul. Rokietnicka 5E
60-806 Poznań
❒ Your COVID-19 Vaccination Card
❒ Arrival and departure flight information (airline and flight number will be located on your boarding pass)
Make sure you start to queue in the correct passport control line. There are two different types of entry. One is strictly for European Passport Holders and the second is for All Passport Holders. Please make sure you line up for All Passport Holders.
Once you reach the front of the Passport Control line, you will speak to an agent. The officer will ask questions about the purpose of your visit. Below are some possible questions and suggestions for how to answer them.
Q. How long are you here for? A. Two weeks
Q. What are you doing? A. Summer program at Poznan University of Medical Sciences
Q. Where are you staying? A. Poznan University of Medical Sciences campus dorms
The border officer will stamp your passport and hand it back to you. Place your passport into your travel wallet for safe keeping immediately.
Once through Passport Control, you will be directed by a chaperone to the baggage claim hall.
Poznan International Airport’s baggage claim is a small hall consisting of 4 to 5 carousels. A chaperone will guide students to the correct baggage carousel where you will need to watch for your luggage to arrive.
It is strongly advised that you place an easily identifiable ribbon or luggage strap/tag on your luggage so you recognize your suitcase as it arrives on the carousel. Most importantly the luggage tag should have your name and address clearly written on it. Another slick trick for travelers is to place a label on top of all your belongings inside your bag should the luggage tag fall off in transit.
Once all students have collected their luggage, we will walk to the Customs area together.
Each person will go through Customs individually with their own luggage. When you pass through Customs, individuals will be chosen at random to place their luggage onto the scanner belt to be screened.
A customs officer may ask to inspect your luggage and ask if you have firearms, drugs, certain electronics and other items that are not allowed or cannot be imported duty-free.
If you are selected for the inspection, don’t worry. The additional screening is a simple procedure and designed to keep everyone safe. Just be ready to answer a few questions and run through a brief inspection.
A chaperone will be on hand at all times should any student need assistance.
A few notes on Polish Customs and Immigration to prepare yourself before travel
❒ Check the International medical insurance website about importing any medications prior to arriving in Poland.
❒ All medications should be clearly labeled and stored in a clear plastic bag along with any liquids. Remember, any liquids in your carry-on must be under 100mls or 3.4 oz per container.
Students will be staying in the dormitories at Poznan University of Medical Sciences. The address is:
Dom Studencki Karolek
Administracja – Mirosław Jackowiak
Ul. Rokietnicka 5E
60-806 Poznań
ACCESS
All students will be granted access to the dormitories with a key and ID card. You must keep these on you at all times to access the dorms.
If you fail to return your dorm key at the end of your stay or lose it during your visit, you will be charged a fee. With this in mind, please ensure you carry a safety wallet and/or lanyard to hold your important items and key at all times.
All dorms have a concierge desk available on the ground floor for any questions you may have, but English is limited. Remember, our very own team of experienced chaperones will also be available 24/7 should you need any assistance at all.
LAUNDRY
There is a self-service laundry room available at the dormitories. Laundry tokens can be purchased for $1.50 from the FutureDocs Abroad Program Lead upon request.
GYM
Green space is available. It is advisable to pack what is needed for a self-contained workout if that’s important to you.
LOUNGE / STUDY AREA
Each floor includes a common kitchen area with ample chair and table seating, and a comfortable seating area is available in the lobby of the dorms.
WIFI
All students have access to an open WiFi network within the dorms. WiFi access will not be available within the clinical locations.
AIR CONDITIONING
Dorms and clinical locations are temperature controlled, which means they are cooled but not to the chilly standards you may be used to indoors during the summer. Dorm windows do open to allow for added circulation. Note that the weather in Poznan in the summer months is generally very pleasant, with temperatures in July around 65 – 75°F during the day.
WHAT TO BRING
A small towel will be provided at the dorms. If you require a larger towel or washcloth, consider packing those separately.
Basic washing goods are also not provided. Please bring an adequate supply of your own toiletries including soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, deodorant, and any other personal toiletries you may require. It is strongly advised that female students pack a healthy supply of feminine hygiene items as certain brands and goods are not available in Poland.
NOTE: Hairdryers are not provided in the dorms. Remember to bring your own if you would like to. Make sure you check the Powering Electronics section below to confirm you have the correct adaptor.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided in the campus dining hall, next to the dorms. A selection of food will be available, focused on the local authentic Polish fare.
Meals will also be provided on off-campus activity days and will include lunches in local restaurants depending on the location of activities.
NOTE: Meals are not provided during travel with the exception of meals and snacks that the airline provides. Dinner is provided shortly after takeoff, and a breakfast snack is served before arrival. A snack is also provided on the short connecting flight to Poznan. Be sure to keep this in mind. If you would like to purchase snacks in the departure or connecting airports, it is advisable to carry a widely accepted bank card (Visa or Mastercard) to make purchases in the airports easily.
Be sure you have updated any special dietary requirements on the portal so we can be sure to not only prep the chef ahead of your arrival, but also pre-request any special requirements for meals that may be provided on your long-haul flight to Europe. If you have any concerns, please reach out to our Admissions Team.
Snacks are available for purchase via vending machines or convenience stores once we are on location. They are conveniently located around campus. Cafes are also available in the clinical locations. Trips to the local convenience store can be arranged with the chaperones upon request.
It is important to remember that we will be situated on a different continent for this incredible two-week adventure. Most of our meals will be provided in the campus dining hall. It is a huge part of cultural immersion to understand that the culinary delights will be very different from home. It is important to come with an open mind and embrace the culinary diversity of our host country.
WATER
Polish tap water is safe to drink. If you prefer, bottled water is easily accessible in local convenience stores. Chaperones will be available 24/7 to assist students if needed.
The FutureDocs Abroad Tuition includes all program costs, international airfare, accommodations, local in-country transportation, and meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner whilst on location. Please note that meals are not provided whilst traveling to and from our host destination unless the airline provides.
Students may want to bring pocket money for their own personal expenses, shopping, personal care items, souvenirs, snacks, etc. ($250-$300 should be more than adequate).
In advance of your trip to Poland, we recommend you decide on how you will pay for personal expenses while abroad. You may choose to carry a credit card, withdraw Polish złoty using an ATM card, bring U.S. dollars to exchange in Poland or some combination of these options.
NOTE: It is advisable to carry both a widely accepted credit card, and some Polish złoty in small denominations. While bank cards are widely accepted at airports and large stores, many smaller convenience stores and tourist attractions only accept cash.
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Poland; Discover and American Express are rarely accepted. If you plan to use a credit card while in Poland, you should ask your credit card company about their international transaction fees and alert them of your international travel plans beforehand to avoid security holds. Check the expiration date on your credit/debit cards and make a separate note in a safe place of their numbers and the service number on the back of the card.
Past students have had issues with Visa gift cards. Be sure to explore the limitations before using this option. While Visa gift cards are accepted by many larger stores, we have experienced issues when trying to withdraw cash from foreign ATMs with this option.
Poland’s currency is złoty. Currently, 1 Polish złoty equals about 0.25 USD. U.S. bank ATM cards can also be used in Poland to obtain złoty. Students should check with their bank about foreign ATM transaction and conversion fees. To avoid additional fees, students may bring U.S. dollars that can be exchanged for the local currency, which the FutureDocs Abroad chaperones can facilitate on-site for students.
Below you will find a breakdown of our various activities and the dress code for each.
Please note that FFP2 Face Masks must be worn at all times in public spaces.
TRAVEL TO AND FROM POLAND
Ultimately, comfort plays a large part in making long-haul flights pleasurable. Always wear comfortable clothes, and this includes your travel shoes.
OPENING AND CLOSING CEREMONIES
This will be your first and last impression when greeting and saying goodbye to your Polish hosts at Poznan University of Medical Sciences. Dress to impress with a business casual outfit.
Ladies: Plan on wearing dresses/trousers/knee-length skirts and shirts with a collar or blouses, and comfortable shoes
Gentlemen: Wear trousers/khakis and collared shirts, and comfortable shoes
NOTE: Absolutely NO athletic wear, NO shorts, and NO jeans
ROTATIONS AT CLINICAL FACILITIES (9 DAYS)
Students will be asked to dress in business casual clothing with Students will be asked to dress in business casual clothing with a long white lab coat for most sessions at the hospital and medical facilities. Scrubs will be required for certain rotations. We recommend bringing 3-4 sets of scrubs.
CULTURAL TOUR (Saturday, July 10)
A full day is planned to explore the fascinating history of Poznan.
REST DAY (Sunday, July 11)
You are welcome to kick back and relax in whatever clothes are most comfortable for you. No activities will be planned for this day. This will be an opportunity for the group to get some much needed rest and prepare for the final week of rotations.
NOTES
Remember, self service laundry facilities are available for students at the dorms. Check the Overnight Accommodations section for more details.
A full suggested packing list will be distributed closer to our departure date.
In Poland, wall outlets deliver 230 volts which is different from the U.S. power outlets at 110 to 120 volts. The power outlet frequency also differs in Poland at 50 Hz compared to the U.S. at 60 Hz.
Be warned! Be especially careful with moving, rotating and time-related appliances like clocks, shavers, hairdryers, and straightening devices to list a few. You will not be able to use these electrical appliances in Poland without an adaptor and voltage converter.
Other appliances only require a Polish plug adaptor and do not need a frequency converter. Check the label of all of your appliances that you plan to bring. If the label states ‘INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz’ the appliance can be used in Poland with the correct plug adaptor. This is common for chargers of tablets/laptops, cameras, cell phones, toothbrushes, etc.
In either case, check your devices and determine if you will need to bring along a converter and/or an adaptor.
Find voltage converters at AMAZON.COM
Find combo plug adapters/converters at AMAZON.COM
NOTE: The use of cell phones is NOT permitted during rotations or while at medical facilities. Cell phones may be carried by students for emergency use only and should remain safely stored in a pocket/bag at all times.
In all likelihood, your cell phone plan does not accommodate international texting, calling or data use. If you use these functions while traveling abroad, you will likely rack up a huge roaming bill – possibly in the thousands of dollars.
To ensure this doesn’t happen, be sure to turn off your cellular data and put your phone in airplane mode before we depart on our international flight. You will still be able to connect to WiFi where available while on airplane mode.
It’s safest to leave your phone in airplane mode for the duration of the trip, and only use WiFi for internet access, in order to avoid a surprise phone bill when you get back.
Local sim cards are available to purchase from the airport or local convenience stores with unlimited data and free local texts and calling for a 30-day period. Cost depends on the provider, but most local sims range between $15 – $20. If you plan to utilize this option, you may want to check your phone is unlocked and available to be used by alternative carriers before you depart from the U.S.
Alternatively, you can explore options with your cell service provider for international travel plans. Most cell service providers offer a daily or monthly plan ranging from $5-$20 per day for international travel. Be sure to explore all the limitations before traveling.
Shared below is a basic packing list for FutureDocs Abroad. Keep in mind this list is intended to provide basic guidance for essentials. This does not necessarily include every item that you may personally require.
A few things to keep in mind as you pack:
IN YOUR TRAVEL WALLET
❒ Passport
❒ National medical insurance card
❒ Print out of your international medical insurance card (this will be given to you at the international departure airport)
❒ A copy of Poznan University of Medical Sciences campus dorm address – Dom Studencki Karolek, Administracja – Mirosław, Jackowiak, Ul. Rokietnicka 5E, 60-806 Poznań
❒ Print out of your COVID-19 negative test results
❒ ID/wallet, including personal spending money
❒ FFP2 Face Mask
Once you’ve checked in for your flight to Poland, you should add these items to your travel wallet
❒ Your boarding passes
❒ A copy of your luggage tag receipt
IN YOUR CARRY-ON
❒ Cellphone
❒ Cellphone charger and chargers for any other electronics
❒ A card with your parent/guardian’s number and the FutureDocs Abroad Admissions team number/emergency line in case you need to borrow a phone
❒ Pen(s)
❒ Small notebook
❒ An umbrella and/or other rain gear
❒ Entertainment for the plane ride (headphones, phone, playing cards, book, etc.)
❒ Empty reusable water bottle (you’ll need to fill it up after you get through airport security)
❒ Travel insurance information, if you purchased coverage
❒ Polish adaptor and converter
❒ If needed, prescription medications
❒ A change of clothes for 2-3 days – It is very important to include a change of clothes that will be appropriate for Orientation and the Opening Ceremony (refer to Dress Code section) in your carry-on. In the event that your hold luggage is lost in transit, you will need to be prepared for the first couple of days of the program. Lost luggage normally takes between 1 to 3 days to be returned.
❒ Spare FFP2 Face Masks
CLOTHING
❒ 4-5 sets of business casual clothes or scrubs for rotations – You will be rotating in the clinical facilities for 9 days. Packing 4-5 sets of business casual clothes and 3-4 sets of scrubs (and planning to do laundry once or twice) should cover the trip
❒ 2-3 long white lab jacket(s) – Must be worn over scrubs or business casual clothes for all rotations
❒ 2 business casual outfits and appropriate footwear for orientation and the closing ceremony at the university
MEN: Trousers/khakis and collared shirts
WOMEN: Knee-length dresses or skirts, trousers, collared shirts, blouses
NOTE: No jeans, shorts or athletic wear
❒ Clean, comfortable, closed-toe shoes for rotations
❒ Clothing for cultural tour
❒ Waterproof jacket and/or umbrella
❒ Pajamas/sweats for your overnight accommodations
❒ Light hoodie or jacket
❒ Travel outfits
❒ Socks and undergarments
❒ Beach towel
❒ Bathing suit
❒ Stock of FFP2 Face Masks (At least 18+ plenty of extras)
TOILETRIES
❒ Toothbrush and toothpaste
❒ Deodorant
❒ Brush/comb
❒ Shampoo and conditioner
❒ Body wash or soap
❒ Sunscreen
❒ Small first aid kit
❒ If needed, glasses/contacts, contact case and solution
❒ Ladies, please be mindful that feminine hygiene items are difficult to come by in brands and styles you might be comfortable with. Be sure to pack these items with you if you’ll need them on our trip.
OTHER ITEMS
❒ Two x COVID-19 at home tests approved for re-entry to USA
❒ Laundry washing capsules
❒ Hairdryer
❒ Advil, Midol, Imodium, Vitamin C, Hydration tablets/packs
….to name a few of the most common items
Don’t worry if you experience a degree of culture shock during the first few days abroad – you will be experiencing a different culture! It’s only natural.
To ensure that culture shock doesn’t turn into a negative experience, think about how you can turn your lack of local knowledge into a positive.
Open yourself up to learning from local cultures, traditions, and people. Set yourself some goals at the beginning of your trip, and when you feel blue, actively try to achieve them.
Connecting with people back home is another way to feel better about being away. Or log onto the WiFi and share your pictures, videos, GIFs, and anything else you come up with!
Writing about your time abroad can also be a great way of capturing your experiences, and can often make for a great record for you to look back on.
NOTE: This is a preliminary schedule and is subject to change.
JULY 2: Travel from Departure Airport (JFK)
JULY 3: Arrive in Poland – Travel to accommodations – Rest
JULY 4: Orientation, opening ceremony, and tour of campus and rotation locations
JULY 5- 8: Rotations
JULY 9: Cultural Tour
JULY 10: Rest day and Shopping
JULY 11 – 14: Rotations
JULY 15: Rotations, closing ceremony, and goodbyes
JULY 16: Departure
REMEMBER TO ENJOY YOURSELF! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Make the most of it, be safe, and have fun!
