Most housing provides essential services such as running water and electricity and are located near grocery stores, laundromats, etc. We cannot guarantee that all students will have a phone where they are living, as most Navajo families do not have such services. However, you must have prior camping experience and a car, as such arrangements usually mean a much more rural and isolated environment. Students benefit from their experience in many ways. They also learn how to manage a qualitative database and conduct an analysis.
Personal gains are also important, and sometimes outweigh the academic benefits.
Students learn independence, problem-solving skills, how to work with a variety of people in a culturally different setting, and how to manage their time outside the parameters of the traditional classroom. Students also learn how to be responsive to a host community and how to negotiate roles and relationships. I also gained confidence and got real enjoyment out of doing applied academic work. Throughout the years there have been many students who have health problems or various types of disabilities. It is important to discuss these with the Director, as she will then make sure that you have an appropriate placement.