Notebook, clipboard, pens and paper will be needed while attending U Zim. Nice to share with your new families, helps in putting fa ces to names and that sort of thing. Whether or not it is required as part of your course work, journal keeping is a great exercise. Not just in terms of keeping track of what you have seen and done, but also as a way of reflecting upon your experience. Petty theft is not uncommon, and we are trying not to draw unnecessary attention to ourselves anyway.
Bungee cords are great for strapping on extra stuff or keeping together a broken pack or suitcase.
Jenn went white water rafting, climbed mountains, forged rivers, and fought off HUGE ants wearing Teva sandals - this was great except for the horrible black fungus that spread all over her feet. It was cured about two weeks after returning home, but it was not a comfortable, or aesthetically pleasing, experience. Remembering that children are unable to attend school without proper footwear, members of the group collected shoes. They were much appreciated and the Laurier contingent was mentioned on the national news. I have already started harassing my friends for their unused sneakers, and my shoe closet would put Amelda Marco to shame.