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.

—

[Student First and Last Name] to Attend FutureDocs Abroad in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

[Your city/town, state] – [Student First and Last Name], a [Grade] at [Your High School] of [Town/City] will attend a summer honors program in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania from July 16 – July 31, 2022.

FutureDocs Abroad is an honors-only program that allows high school 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 Tanzania. 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 February 2, 2023, in order to enter Tanzania. Tanzania immigration requires all passports to have at least 6 months validity beyond our departure date from Tanzania. Check the expiration date on your passport.

This is a VERY IMPORTANT STEP AND TIME SENSITIVE as you will need a valid passport through February 2, 2023, in order to apply for your Tanzanian Visa (which we will be applying for in March).

If your passport is VALID through February 2, 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 February 2, 2023, visit the State Department website for instructions on how to renew your passport as soon as possible!

If you DO NOT HAVE A PASSPORT visit the State Department website for instructions on how to apply for a passport.

NOTE: The Department of State is experiencing significant delays so please make sure you apply IMMEDIATELY. All students are required to have a valid Passport Book to travel to Tanzania. Passport cards are not valid for International travel to Tanzania. Passports must be full passport books.

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.

An upload of a clear ID photo is required.

• A recent portrait or headshot photo is acceptable with a clear white background. You may take this photo yourself (it does not need to be a professional photo), so long as it is head-on and clear
• In either JPEG or PDF format
• Submitted no later than February 28, 2022

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 Tanzania, students are also REQUIRED to have:

❒ a Typhoid vaccination or prescribed medication
❒ a Malaria vaccination or prescribed medication

It is also advisable to ask your physician to prescribe Azithromycin (commonly known as Z-Pack), for treatment of travelers sickness.

Please schedule a visit with your physician’s office or a travel clinic to obtain these immunizations and be sure to request a copy of these immunization records as well as your routine immunization record, as you are required to upload a copy to the portal by no later than March  30, 2022.

It is strongly advised that all students traveling with FutureDocs Abroad this summer be vaccinated.  COVID vaccinations are now available to all individuals 5+ within the USA.  Any of the four vaccines available in the U.S. (Pfizer, Moderna, Astra, or J&J) are acceptable. 

COVID-19 Vaccination Finder >

A copy of your vaccination card, in English, should be uploaded to the portal no later than May 15, 2022.  Please be in contact with our team if you have questions.

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.

4) If you are NOT fully vaccinated, start to plan WHEN and WHERE you will get your pre-departure COVID test and determine how quickly you can get your negative lab result in-hand.

5) If you haven’t already been vaccinated, consider your options and book an appointment as soon as possible. Although COVID Vaccination is not required, it is suggested. Again, be in contact with our offices if you have questions on this.

6) It is advisable that all students use FFP2 or N95 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.

You are responsible for booking your domestic travel⏤to and from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and your hometown. 

Important Note: Our international departure time means you will need to arrive at JFK EARLY on Saturday, July 16th. 

Airports during the summer period will be busier than usual. If you are struggling to find a flight that fits into the suggested arrival window, we strongly recommend making arrangements to fly in the day before. 

Our staff will be staying at the Fairfield Inn by Marriott hotel at JFK Airport on Friday, July 15. Feel free to make reservations at the same hotel. We will be available and ready to assist you during that time. If you are under 18 you will need to add our program leads name to the reservation. details below. 

Program Lead: Eric Jewett

Hotel Address:
Fairfield Inn by Marriott hotel at JFK Airport
156-08 Rockaway Blvd
Jamaica, NY 11434 

YOU MUST book, confirm, and upload your flight details to the portal no later than May 15, 2022. Please be sure to read this entire email for useful information on booking your domestic travel.

Departure Airport: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Departure Time: 11:20 AM EDT on Saturday, July 16, 2022
Flight Numbers: Emirates #204 & #725
Route: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Dubai (DXB), Dar es Salaam (DAR)
Arrival Airport: Dar es Salaam (DAR)
Arrival Time: 1:55 PM ICT on Sunday, July 17, 2022

When to Arrive at JFK: Saturday, July 16, between 5:00 AM and 7:30 AM EDT

Meeting Point: John F. Kennedy Airport, Terminal 4, International Departures, Emirates check-in desk

Suggested arrival window at JFK for international departure:

Our flight to Tanzania is scheduled to depart from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York on July 16 at 11:20 AM local time. You must book your flight from your home airport to JFK to arrive between 5:00 AM and 7:30 AM EDT on Saturday, July 16.

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 4, International Departures, and the Emirates 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:

• The night before you travel, check online flight departures for any delays on your domestic travel from your hometown.
• The morning of your flight, check again for any delays. Apps like flighttracker.com can be used to check delays or you can type your airline and flight number into Google.
• If you have any issues at all with your travel plans or disruptions, please call us immediately so we can put the appropriate measures in place ahead of time.
• Once you arrive at JFK remember to pick up all of your luggage at the baggage claim before heading to the group meeting point! Your baggage will NOT automatically check through for our international flight.
• If your baggage is lost or delayed upon arrival into JFK airport, please call the Admissions Team to inform us. We will give you instructions based on connection time for our international flight.

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

Our group will begin check-in together for the international flight to Tanzania at 8:00 AM. We will leave to go through security at 8:45 AM. NOTE: The group will not wait for individuals unless we are aware of delays.

Departure Airport: Dar Es Salaam (DAR)
Departure Time: 3:35 PM ICT on Saturday, July 30, 2022
Flight Numbers: Emirates #726 & #203
Route: Dar Es Salaam (DAR), Dubai (DXB), New York (JFK)
Arrival Airport: John F. Kennedy, New York (JFK)
Arrival Time: 8:50 AM EDT Sunday, July 31, 2022

When to Depart from JFK: Sunday, July 31, between 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM

Suggested domestic departure window from the inbound international flight:

Our inbound flight from Tanzania is scheduled to arrive at JFK on Sunday, July 31 at 8:50 AM EDT.

Domestic departures should be scheduled for Sunday, July 31. You must book your domestic flight back to your hometown to depart between 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM from JFK on Sunday, July 31.

Remember, once we land on July 31, 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.

Please visit the Emirates 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 and are the responsibility of the student.

We are excited to be one step closer to takeoff! Don’t forget, our Admissions Team is happy to help if you have any questions at all.

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.

Domestic flights to and from hometowns

Unaccompanied Minor status is required by some airlines for passengers under the age of 15, and some airlines have other policies and age cut-offs. There is an additional fee for this service through the airline.

When you book your flights to and from your hometown, be sure to check with your individual airline on their Unaccompanied Minor policy. If your airline requires this, you will be prompted to give information on the name, address, and telephone number of the staff member who will be picking you up at the airport.

Please contact the Admissions Team before April 30, 2022, if you arrange Unaccompanied Minor status. We will be able to give you the name of the staff member who will be picking you up when the airline reservation is made.

This name may need to be updated up to 2 weeks prior to travel with a confirmed chaperone who will be assigned to that terminal specifically. You MUST report to the airline this updated name in order for the airline to release you to the FutureDocs Abroad chaperone. Failure to do so will result in the airline’s refusal to release you into the care of the FutureDocs Abroad chaperone.

NOTE: Unaccompanied Minor status cannot be purchased for flights with connections.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Please read through this carefully with your parents/guardians and take immediate action on the items listed below. This information is subject to change at short notice. We will update this information as updates become available. 

TANZANIA BORDER ENTRY AND EXIT REQUIREMENTS COVID-19

Travelers Health Surveillance Form
All travelers are required to fill out the traveler’s health surveillance form no more than 72 hours prior to departure from JFK. This form must be completed no earlier than Wednesday, July 13, at 11:20 am EDT. You will need to submit a copy of your vaccination certificate or your negative covid test report to obtain the QR code for entry. In addition, all passengers arriving in Tanzania from the USA are required to undergo RT-PCR testing on arrival at your own cost of $10 USD. It is advisable to pay online with either Visa or Mastercard to save time upon arrival to Dar es Salaam. Payment is also available upon arrival with cash (must be exact amount), or Visa/Mastercard.

Fully Vaccinated Travelers
Fully vaccinated travelers entering Tanzania, will be exempt from pre-departure COVID-19 RT-PCR testing requirements from the USA to Tanzania. Travelers will be required to present a valid vaccination certificate upon check in at JFK airport with Emirates and a QR code for verification. 

Not Fully Vaccinated, And Unvaccinated Travelers
Not fully vaccinated, and unvaccinated travelers will be required to present a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test certificate at check-in with Emirate Airlines at JFK airport. The test must be a Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test, with the sample collected within 72  hours of departure to Tanzania. You must have a test no earlier than 11:20 AM EDT on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, and have your negative test result PRINTED in hand to check-in for our international  flight on July 16, 2022. It is IMPERATIVE that you have your test certificate showing the type of test, your name, address, date of birth, and time the test was taken, for check-in along with your QR code after filling out the travelers health surveillance form. Tests must be a Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR).  Antibody tests are NOT accepted. 

Contact your healthcare provider or visit your state, tribal, local, and territorial health department’s website to find the latest local information on testing.  The type of viral COVID-19 tests offered may differ by location. Before making your choice on testing location, check how long it takes to get your results. 

Another option is to have your test made at JFK Airport before departure. There is a private COVID testing clinic, located in Terminal 1 departures level.  Tests can be booked online and paid for either by credit or cash on arrival.  Test results take 2 hours.  Visit Adams Health Services.

Please ensure you allow enough time upon arrival at JFK if you will be utilizing this service.  Our international departure will be from Terminal 4.

IMPORTANT REMINDER*

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 altogether. 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.

4) Start to plan WHEN and WHERE you will get your pre-departure COVID test and determine how quickly you can get your negative lab result in hand.

Passengers transiting through Dubai from Tanzania are required to present a negative COVID‑19 test certificate for a test taken no more than 1 calendar day before departure back to the USA.

Approved COVID testing to depart from Tanzania back home to the USA, via Dubai is $25 per passenger. Arrangements by FutureDocs Abroad will be made to facilitate this for all students prior to our departure from Tanzania

Students will be staying at the Giraffe Beach Hotel in Dar es Salaam. The address is Plot 169, Jangwani Beach Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. 

ROOMING

All students will be in double occupancy rooms with a roommate of the same sex.

It’s uncommon for Tanzanian hotels to have rooms with two beds. You may be assigned to share a room with a large King bed with one other student of the same gender. In this case, the hotel will provide separate bed linens so you can sleep comfortably within the same bed. 

ACCESS

All students will be given a room key upon arrival. You must keep this on you at all times to access the elevators and your hotel room. 

If you lose your room key during your visit, you will need a valid form of photo identification in order to receive a new key. Please ensure you carry a safety wallet and/or lanyard to hold your important items and key at all times. 

The hotel reception desk is available 24/7 on the ground floor for any questions you may have. Remember, our very own team of experienced staff will also be available 24/7 should you need any assistance at all. 

LAUNDRY

The hotel offers a laundry service. Laundry bags and request sheets will be available within each hotel room. Students will need to fill out the request sheet and take the bag of laundry to reception and pay individually in the local currency. The clean laundry items will be delivered to the individual’s room.

Items received before 10 AM will be delivered the same day after 6 PM.

Items received after 10 AM will be delivered the following day.

TIP: To avoid laundry charges, it is advisable to bring a small bag of laundry detergent with you. You can then launder your own clothes within your bathroom in your hotel room. 

LOUNGE/ STUDY AREA

Each hotel room offers a quiet and peaceful place to rest and relax. There is also a dedicated desk for study in each room. Otherwise, the hotel has plenty of communal areas for study or relaxation within the main lobby, or you can opt to unwind by the pool.

WIFI

The Giraffe Beach Hotel  offers WiFi throughout. WiFi in clinical locations is available but can be unpredictable depending on the location.

AIR CONDITIONING

The Giraffe Beach Hotel is air-conditioned throughout, but some of the clinical facilities are not.

Dar es Salaam is a major city on Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coast. The long dry season in Tanzania lasts throughout June, July, August, and September and rain is unusual during these months. Expect temperatures in the high 80s-90s. 

Breakfast and dinner will be provided in the hotel. A large selection of food will be available including authentic Tanzanian fare, and a variety of American classics. A lunch buffet will be provided at the clinical facilities.

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 the meals and snacks the airline provides. Although this may differ from airline to airline or route taken, generally, two meals and soft drinks, water, and coffee will be provided on the long-haul section of your journey. A snack may be provided on the connecting flight to Tanzania.

If you would like to purchase additional snacks at the departure or connecting airport, 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 Tanzania. If you have any concerns, please reach out to the Admissions Team.

It is important to remember that we will be situated on the other side of the world for this incredible two-week adventure. Most of our meals will be provided in the Giraffe Beach Hotel, however, 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.  

Tanzania’s tap water is not safe to drink. One bottle of water is provided within the hotel room daily per person. Bottled water is easily accessible in local convenience stores either within the hotel or right across the road. Chaperones will be organizing trips to the local convenience store as needed.

Secondly, it is strongly advisable not to digest the ice while in Tanzania. Ice is generally produced from tap water. Small fridges are located in all hotel rooms to refrigerate drinks

APPLY FOR YOUR TANZANIAN VISA — *URGENT* APPLY NOW

In order to travel to Tanzania, you must complete the following steps and submit your application to apply for your Tanzanian E-Visa via the Tanzanian government website.

This step is crucial and the application must be submitted no later than April  30, in order to receive your approval ahead of departure. 

Please note: Follow the steps below exactly. You will not be able to travel without your visa. Do not use any other process you find online to apply for a visa to enter Tanzania.

STEP 1: Prepare these 3 documents in digital format ready to upload BEFORE you start your application.

• ID photo with clear background (supported files are JPEG/PNG and no more than 300kb)
• Picture of your passport picture page (supported files are JPEG/PNG and no more than 300kb)
• A copy of your return ticket (attached to this email) (supported file is ‘pdf’, and no more than 1MB)

STEP 2: Go to https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/. This is the official Government website. Do not use any other visa service.

STEP 3: Select “Apply For a New Visa”

STEP 4: Complete your basic information

• Double-check this information correct before moving on to the next step
• IMPORTANT: Make sure you use an email address that you check regularly as you will receive your visa via the email address you provide. 

STEP 5: Record your application ID number in case you need to access your application at a later date

STEP 6: Complete your address and employment information

STEP 7: Complete your passport information

STEP 8: Complete your travel information

• You are applying from: USA
• Your nearest Embassy: Washington DC, USA
• Type of Visa: Multiple Entry Visa (American Nationals must choose this type of visa)
• Purpose of visit: Leisure and Holiday
• Is this your first time visiting? Yes or no depending on your travel history
• Destination: Tanzania Mainland
• Port: Airport
• Port of Entry: Dar Es Salaam
• Port of Departure: Dar Es Salaam
• Date of Arrival: July  17, 2022
• Stay: 13 days
• Local Host: Self
• Where are you going to stay: Giraffe Beach Hotel 
• Physical Address: Plot 169, Jangwani Beach Dar es Salaam, Tanzania 
• Are you traveling as part of a group? Yes
• Group Organization Name: The National Leadership Academies
• Are you being Accompanied by Minors: No

STEP 9: Upload the documents your prepared earlier

• ID photo with clear background 
• Picture of your passport biodata page 
• A copy of your return ticket 

STEP 10: Review your information carefully! Read the disclaimer and check that you have read and understood the information provided.

STEP 11: Proceed to Payment. Only VISA or MASTERCARD are accepted.

Once payment is submitted, you should see a message confirming payment has been approved with an authorization number. Please keep a copy of this number for your records. 

You will also receive an email confirmation from the Tanzanian Government with your application number. You can check your status on the government website at any time by entering your application number and answering the security questions. If you do not receive an email confirmation once you have submitted your application, please check your spam folder. 

If you do not receive your visa within 10 working days, please contact support to follow up with your application at visatanzania@immigration.go.tz 

You should receive your visa to the email address you provided within 10 business days. 

STEP 12: Once you received, upload a photo or scan to the portal for our records by no later than May 30. Remember: you must pack a color printout of your visa in your travel wallet/hand luggage for our trip to Tanzania. 

You will not be able to enter Tanzania without this visa. FutureDocs Abroad is not responsible for any individuals who do not have the relevant visa approval to travel.

This is a crucial step towards getting ready for liftoff so be sure to complete it immediately!

The Tuition includes all program costs, international airfare, accommodations, local in-country transportation, and meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner while on location. Please note that meals are not provided during travel to and from our host destination, with the exception of meals provided by the airline.

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 Tanzania, we recommend you decide on how you will pay for personal expenses while abroad. You may choose to carry a credit card, withdraw Tanzanian shilling using an ATM card, bring U.S. dollars to exchange in Tanzania, or some combination of these options.

NOTE: It is advisable to carry both a widely accepted credit card, and some Tanzanian shilling 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 Tanzania; Discover and American Express are rarely accepted.

If you plan to use a credit card while in Tanzania, be sure to 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.

In the 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.

Tanzanian currency is the shilling. Currently, 1000 Tanzanian shilling equals about 0.43 USD. U.S. bank ATM cards can also be used in Tanzania to obtain shilling. Students should check with their bank about foreign ATM transactions 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 staff can facilitate on-site for students. It’s recommended that if you bring U.S. dollars, only bring crisp, clean bills, as bills with marks, tears, or creases are likely to be rejected when you go to exchange them in Tanzania.

In the category below you will find a suggested packing list to prepare for the summer weather to ensure safety and comfort.

Basic washing goods are provided (shampoo, conditioner, and soap), but it is advisable to bring your own as only small quantities and limited items are provided. Don’t forget 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 western brands and goods are not available in Tanzania.

NOTE: Hairdryers are provided in the rooms. However, if you decide to bring your own, make sure you check the Powering Electronics section below to confirm you have the correct adaptor.

Below you will find a breakdown of our various activities and the dress code for each.

It is important to keep in mind when packing that Tanzanian people dress conservatively, and visitors should do the same. Men and women should keep their shoulders covered and shorts should always be knee-length. The only time when this note is not applicable is on travel days, and our mid-program rest day.

TRAVEL TO AND FROM TANZANIA

Ultimately, comfort plays a large part in making long-haul flights pleasurable. Always wear comfortable clothes, and this includes your travel shoes.

• • Wear layers – You will need pieces that you can easily take off or put on to help you combat the varying temperatures you encounter throughout your journey.
  • Wear something that you can keep on for the next 24 hours – travel time to Tanzania including your domestic travel will be at least 24 hours.
  • Wear clothes that don’t restrict you. 
  • Wear natural, breathable fabrics.
  • Wear socks and comfortable footwear.

OPENING AND CLOSING CEREMONIES

This will be your first and last impression when greeting and saying goodbye to your Tanzanian hosts at Hubert Kairuki Memorial University. 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 jeans, and NO shorts

ROTATIONS AT CLINICAL FACILITIES

Students will be asked to wear scrubs and a long white lab coat for all sessions at the hospital and medical facilities.

• Scrubs can be any color/pattern
• Lab jackets are required for all rotations
• Comfortable/clean footwear – You will be on your feet for long periods of time so comfortable, closed-toe, clean shoes are advisable. Sneakers are permitted for rotations in the hospital but must be clean.

SAFARI TOUR (Saturday, July 23)

A full day is planned to explore. Keep in mind that Tanzanian people dress conservatively, and visitors should do the same. Men and women should keep their shoulders covered and shorts should always be knee length. Another factor to keep in mind is the weather. It will be hot and humid, so light, natural fabrics like cotton are advisable.

• Wear comfortable/breathable casual clothes (shoulders must be covered and shorts should be knee-length)
• Wear comfortable shoes (sneakers are a great option)
• Bring a sunhat
• Wear sunscreen

REST DAY (Sunday, July 24)

You are welcome to kick back and relax in whatever clothes are most comfortable for you. If you plan on spending time at the pool, be sure to pack a swimsuit.

NOTES

Remember, laundry facilities will be available at the hotel.

The voltage supplied in electrical outlets, as well as the outlet type, varies in countries throughout the world, so in order to charge your devices when you visit another country, it’s important to check the voltage and outlet requirements of your host country.

• You will need an adaptor for all electrical devices as the sockets in Tanzania are different
• The standard voltage is 230 V in Tanzania. This is different to the standard voltage of 120 V in the U.S.
• The power outlet frequency differs in Tanzania 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 hair straightening devices to list a few. You will not be able to use these electrical appliances in Tanzania without an adaptor and converter.

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

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 were 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 calls for a 30-day period. Cost depends on the provider, but most local sims range between $5-$15. 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:

• Very important: Do not bring any fruit, dairy, or meat, and absolutely no living or dried agriculture objects, as you cannot travel to another country with these. The same applies to your return trip to the United States.
• Clearly label all of your luggage so it is easily identifiable; remember, many bags look alike!
• The hotel does provide limited personal toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and shower soap/body wash, but please pack an additional supply of each to be comfortable. These are included in the packing list below.
• As you pack, keep in mind that there are laundry services available at the hotel for a fee.
• We recommend you pack any over-the-counter personal hygiene items you might need because many personal items we are used to getting easily in the United States are not as easy to get in another country, especially feminine hygiene products.
• If you are taking any prescription medicines, be sure to pack enough for every day you are away from home, along with an additional three to four days’ supply. Students are required to keep all prescription medications in the original prescription bottles and to always carry those bottles in their carry-on luggage. Be sure to check TSA guidelines if the medicines are liquids.
• Refer back to the airline’s baggage restrictions. Remember, savvy travelers will restrict luggage to one carry-on bag and one checked bag to limit the possibility of lost items.

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 the hotel address – this will be released in March
❒ Tanzanian Visa (details on how to obtain this will be provided)
❒ ID/wallet, including personal spending money

Once you’ve checked in for your flight to Tanzania, you should add these two 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; keep in mind this is only for use with potable water in domestic U.S. airports)
❒ Travel insurance information, if you purchased coverage
❒ Tanzanian 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.

CLOTHING

❒ 5-6 sets of scrubs for rotations – You will be rotating in the clinical facilities for 9 days. Packing 5-6 sets of scrubs (and planning to do laundry once or twice) should cover the trip
❒ 1-2 long white lab jacket(s) – Must be worn over scrubs for most 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 (sneakers are fine as long as they are clean)
❒ Clothing for Safari tour – Please refer to the Dress Code section for appropriate guidelines
❒ Pajamas/sweats for your overnight accommodations
❒ Light hoodie and waterproof jacket
❒ Travel outfits
❒ Socks and undergarments
❒ Bathing suit & towel if you wish to use the hotel’s pool. NOTE: While the cultural standards dictate keeping your legs and shoulders covered, the hotel pool is the single exception. However, be sure to have a cover-up ready and do not walk through the rest of the hotel outside of the pool area in only your swimwear.

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
❒ Bug spray
❒ 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

❒ Advil, Midol, Imodium, Vitamin C, Hydration tablets/packs / Malaria tablets / Z pack
….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 can 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.

This is a preliminary schedule and is subject to change.

JULY 16: Travel from Departure Airport

JULY 17: Arrive in Tanzania / Travel to Hotel – Rest

JULY 18: Orientation, Opening Dinner

JULY 19 – JULY 22: Rotations

JULY 23: Safari

JULY 24: Rest day at Hotel

JULY 25 – 29: Rotations

JULY 29: Rotations, Closing Ceremony, and Goodbyes

JULY 30: Departure Tanzania

AUGUST 31: Arrive USA

REMEMBER TO ENJOY YOURSELF! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Make the most of it, be safe, and have fun!