We understand that it’s a big step to move your life to South America and that you probably have a lot of questions about the Submerge Program. Below we have answered some of our most frequently asked questions. Keep in mind that when you are accepted into the program you will be sent the official acceptance pack that is packed with all of the intricate details you will need to know to begin your overseas adventure. The manual includes detailed packing lists, fundraising ideas, instructions for how to make payments, and much more. If you have any additional questions please contact us at admissions@submerge.tv.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW LONG DOES THE PROGRAM RUN?
The program is a three-month experience with an optional three-month extension leadership track called Summit.
WHAT IS THE COST OF THE PROGRAM?
Total: $5,900
This includes all the cost of the classes, housing, three meals a day, transportation and an Ecuadorian cell phone.
WHERE DO SUBMERGE TEAM MEMBERS LIVE?
Team members live together in our Submerge Base. Housing is located in a safe sector of town and close to many local restaurants, movie theaters, malls, and parks. The base houses males and females in separate section of the base.
FOOD: WHAT IF I HAVE A SPECIAL DIET?
We understand that many people have food restrictions and diet preferences. Each of the Submerge meals are cooked by our own chef who prepares meals with both food safety and health in mind. While the majority of our meals are healthy, we cannot solely provide meals that cater to food preferences (gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian diet etc.). We have had many participants join us in Submerge with these restrictions and we encourage them to budget a small amount of additional money to purchase their own food in the event that our pre-planned meals conflict with their diet preferences.
WHAT KIND OF COMPUTER AND SOFTWARE DO I NEED?
A current-model laptop with wifi capacity is required to attend. Adobe Photoshop version 6 or higher is needed in order to participate in graphic design classes.
CAN I HAVE A JOB WHILE ENROLLED IN SUBMERGE?
US and International Students: You will be visiting the country on a visa that does not allow you to work in the country. We do not prohibit team members from holding an online job while they are in the program, however, we do not adjust our schedule to accommodate participants work schedule. Team members are required to be at all events.
CAN I ATTEND OTHER FORMS OF SCHOOLING WHILE ENROLLED IN SUBMERGE?
Some of our students have opted to take online classes while enrolled in Submerge, but as a member of Submerge you are required to attend all events so studies would need to take place during your free time.
WHAT IF I HAVE ALREADY BEEN TO BIBLE SCHOOL OR COLLEGE?
You are welcome in the program regardless of whether or not you have graduated from Bible School or college. Submerge is geared towards practical learning and life application. Some of our current team members are Bible school and/or college graduates. Also, many of the students who have previously attended school find that the program enriches their education by providing them with a practical outlet for what they have already learned.
HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE TO JOIN SUBMERGE?
The program is open to people ages 18-30.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The program cost of $5,900 covers of all of your classes and program curriculum for the program, furnished apartment equipped with high-speed internet, a local cell phone, transportation to all Submerge functions, three meals per day prepared for you by our Submerge chef. (A typical breakfast would include choice of eggs, toast, cereal, oatmeal, french toast, fruit, yogurt, or pancakes. A typical lunch would include sandwiches and chips. Dinners are a mix of both local and American cuisine.) You will want to bring some extra cash for snacks, personal items, travel outside of ministry, souvenirs and sightseeing.
DO I HAVE TO GET VACCINES?
Vaccines: There are no required vaccines to visit Ecuador. However, the State Department recommends that you be up to date on all of your basic inoculations. For additional recommendations please refer to the Center for Disease Control website and consult with your personal health care provider for updated information on what inoculations you may need for the trip.
WILL I HAVE A CELL PHONE?
Cell Phones: Upon arrival you will be provided with use of a local cell phone loaded with a set number of minutes which is intended to be used for communicating to team members, arranging logistics, and in case of emergency. At your discretion you may choose to purchase additional minutes and text messages.
Smart Phones: If you have a smartphone in the U.S. you may find it useful to have with you here as wifi is readily available. There are many helpful apps that make communicating back to the states a breeze.
DO I NEED INTERNATIONAL INSURANCE?
International Insurance: It is required that you have an international insurance plan prior to your arrival on the ground. If you are currently insured your coverage may already extend internationally. Please check with your provider and if you are indeed covered we will need you to fax us a proof of insurance prior to your arrival. If you do not have an international insurance plan you can purchase one here: http://www.missiontripinsurance.com.
IS Submerge ASSOCIATED WITH A CHURCH OR MINISTRY?
Submerge works with many churches, denominations and organizations around the world. In Quito, we are involved with a church plant that the founder co-pastors called ONE UIO.