1.) Are the Bequia Sunshine Project and Caribbean Service Learning Program the same thing?
No, they are not. The Caribbean Service Learning Program, founded by Lynn Pelco in 2001, is a faculty-led trip which entails educational assessments of students at the high school and special needs school. Members of the program then tutor and monitor these students. The Bequia Sunshine Project, founded by two 2006-2007 trip participants, is a branch off of this program. It is entirely student-led and is responsible for painting the interior of the high school as well as running a camp for the children, and continuing to tutor the special needs children. For more information, check out the trip history page.
2.) I'm just one person but I want to help. What should I do?
There's a lot you can do. If you are an individual check out our how individuals can help page. If you work for a business that is trying to get involved, click here.
3.) How are students selected to participate?
The interview process is held in the Spring by the trip leaders and possibly past trip participants. A written application is the first basis of elgibility, and some students are then invited to the interview process. We look for enthusiastic, engaging, and dedicated students who want to make a difference. The process is very competitive: As our first year, we had over 100 applications and only 12 students (not including the trip leaders) were selected.
4.) Can non-William and Mary students be a part of this trip?
Unfortunately not. One day, we hope to expand the program to other schools but for now, you must be a William and Mary student to apply to be a member of the team. :(
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