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Contact Info

For more info, contact TBD:

TBD (call or text)
TBD

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Overview

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This page is a hub of information related to the Argos on the Rhine (undergraduate) and MBA Study Abroad trips to Germany in May 2025. Watch this page for updates!

Note: this page is best viewed on a computer screen

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Click Save for later and Watch in the top-right corner of this page to easily find it later and to stay up-to-date when updates are made!

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On this page:

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title	Program Details

Trip Dates

Start: Wednesday, April 30, 2025
End: Sunday, May 11, 2025

Destinations

Immerse yourself in cultural activities and company site visits in three countries in just 10 days! Destinations are subject to change during planning phase.

Mannheim, Germany (main location)
Lucerne, Switzerland (two nights)
Strasbourg, France (day trip)

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Cost

Total cost: $2,750 program fee (plus the cost of tuition for your course)

Program fee includes: airfare, hotel accommodations, local transportation, excursions, cultural activities, mandatory international health insurance fees, welcome reception, and farewell dinner.
- Program fee payments are nonrefundable.
Program fee does not include: course tuition (AOTR course: $702, MBA: $1,369.50); meals; personal expenses and incidentals; international mobile phone plan (required)
- Course tuition is paid separately after you register for the appropriate summer 2025 course. Your advisor will assist you with the registration process.

Funding Opportunities: See the Apply for Scholarships section below.

Payment Information >>

Eligibility Requirements

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eligibility

Students must meet the following requirements to be eligible for this opportunity:

	Course	Min GPA
Argos on the Rhine	Eligible to take GEB4361 International Business in summer 2025 Prereqs: MAR 3023, MAN 3025, GEB 3213, and FIN 3403 with a 'C' or higher	2.5 or higher
MBA	Eligible to take ECP6705 Adv Managerial Economics in summer 2025 Prereq: GEB5878 & GEB5930 with a 'C' or higher	3.0 or higher in MBA coursework

Course Requirements Panel

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title	Overview

Overview

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Kick off 2022 in Costa Rica! Join your classmates in an unforgettable study abroad experience while earning credit toward your degree. Explore hot springs, go zip lining, hike a volcano, and more - while learning!

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MBA students will take ECP 6705 Advanced Managerial Economics.

Undergraduate students will take GEB 4361 International Business

Flights

We will depart and return to Pensacola Regional Airport. All participants will travel as a group on the same roundtrip flights.

If you do not live locally, please make arrangements to be in Pensacola at least 24 hours before departure on April 30th. Exceptions will not be made.

Airline ticket purchases are dependent upon information obtained in your Study Abroad Application and valid passport. Make sure you have both of these items by the deadlines listed in the Dates & Deadlines calendar.

Date	Departure Time	Arrival Time	Origin	Destination	Flight #
4/30/25
4/30/25 - 5/1/25
5/11/24
5/11/24

Lodging

Hotel: Premier Inn Mannheim City Centre Hotel (tentative)

Rooming: Double-occupancy rooms. Students will be paired based on sex and enrollment (ex: two MBA males in one room). You are encouraged to select your roommate.

Submit a Study Abroad Application
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To get started, complete a UWF Faculty-Led Study Abroad Application. Applications are due by December 6 (date subject to change).

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If the button doesn't work, or if you have questions about the application, see Completing the UWF Faculty-Led Study Abroad Application >>

Approval Process

Once submitted, your Faculty-Led Study Abroad Application must pass through the following reviews before official approval will be given:

International Affairs (initial) - International Affairs reviews your overall application to ensure you meet UWF study abroad requirements
COB Faculty leader - Dr. Morgan (AOTR) or Dr. Hawkins (MBA) reviews your application to ensure you meet COB eligibility requirements for study abroad
International Affairs (final) - International Affairs completes full review of your application and confirms your approval

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Trip Details

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Dates

All participants will travel roundtrip from Pensacola Regional Airport to TBD Airport in TBD.

Arrival: Wednesday, May 4, 2022
Departure: Sunday, May 15, 2022

Flight information coming in December!

Cost

The cost of this trip covers all expenses, excluding course registration. This includes travel, insurance, meals, lodging, and excursions.

Total cost: $1,996

Next Steps

Once your Study Abroad Application is approved, start preparing for May with the following required steps.

Attend Mandatory Meetings
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meetings

Attendance for all meetings is mandatory. Meeting dates are listed on the Dates & Deadlines calendar.

Make On-Time Payments
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Due dates: Installment deadlines are listed on the Dates & Deadlines calendar.

Cost

Payment options one lump some or in up to four

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Itinerary

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Sign Up Now! Anchorsignupsignup

Don't delay! This trip is limited to the first 15 students who sign up.

Students must first complete a UWF Faculty-Led Study Abroad Application. If you have any problems with the form, please contact studyabroad@uwf.edu.

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Payment Installment Deadlines

October 29, 2021 - $499
November 12, 2021 - $499
November 24, 2021 - $499
December 10, 2021 - $499

Payment Portal: Payments should be submitted via the following link:

You will need to add the payment(s) to your cart, then check out. If you wish to pay the entire amount, simply add all four payments in your cart, then check out.

Excursions

This is sure to be an action-packed, educational experience for all!

TBD
TBD
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Accepted forms of payment: Credit cards and checks are accepted.

How to Pay: Payments can be made in-person, over the phone, or online using the following instructions:

In-Person: Credit card and check payments can be made in-person at the Continuing Education (CE) Student Support Office, Monday through Thursday, from 9am to 4pm. We strongly suggest that you call ahead to request an appointment for in-person payments. Go to building 77, office 159 (located "upstairs") for in-person payments. Do not go to the Cashier's Office.
Phone: Credit card payments can be accepted over the phone by calling the CE Student Support line (850-473-7468), Monday through Thursday, from 9am to 4pm.
Online: Use the appropriate, unique link below to submit your payments. Each link is unique to your group and payment deadline, so be sure to click the correct link each time.
- You will need to create a profile the first time you go in to make a payment.

Payment questions: Contact the Continuing Education Student Support Office if you have payment questions (850-473-7468 or continuinged@uwf.edu).

	Argos on the Rhine undergraduate	MBA graduate
Payment #1	AOTR Payment #1	MBA Payment #1
Payment #2	AOTR Payment #2	MBA Payment #2
Payment #3	AOTR Payment #3	MBA Payment #3
Payment #4	AOTR Payment #4	MBA Payment #4
Payment #5	AOTR Payment #5	MBA Payment #5

Note

Refund Policy

Please be aware that no refunds will be issued after February 7, 2025, and all paid amounts will become non-refundable at that time.

Payment Questions?

Continuing Education (CE) Student Support Office
Call: 850-473-7468
Email: continuinged@uwf.edu
On-Campus: Building 77, Room 159

Apply for Scholarships
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funding

Foundation Scholarship: Students should apply for the UWF Foundation Study Abroad Scholarship to reduce out-of-pocket costs. More information about this funding opportunity will be sent to approved applicants by International Affairs in spring 2025.

SGA Travel Grant: Each group will submit an application and presentation. Speak with your faculty leader for more information.

Purchase an International Phone Plan

All participants must purchase an international plan and have their mobile data turned on for the duration of the trip. This is non-negotiable, as we must be able to contact you at all times.

Not sure where to start? There are many travel websites out there with resources to help you choose the right plan for your budget. Here is just one of those sites, but we suggest you also do your own research: https://clark.com/cell-phones/international-phone-plans/

NOTE: In 2023, a student had to replace a Cricket Wireless plan with a short-term Google phone plan. The former did not have service in Europe.

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Please reach out to your academic advisor.

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FAQs & Tips
Course Info
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FAQs

title	I've already taken ECP 6705. May I still attend?

FAQs

We try to add to and update this section regularly, so check back! If your question isn't addressed below, you can submit a question here >>

Course Info

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title	I've already taken

GEB 4361academic advisorPlease reach out to your in seven days

Students will be required to complete some online course work (i.e. video lectures or SmartBook style assignments) before the trip in order to apply course concepts while in Costa Rica. Students will participate in 25 academic hours on the trip (see Itinerary). The remainder of course requirements will be completed by January 30th.

This course plan is subject to change.

Covid-19

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title	Is the Covid-19 vaccine required to attend?

No. However, all air passengers coming to the United States, including U.S. citizens and fully vaccinated people, are required to have a negative COVID-19 viral test result no more than 3 days before travel or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 3 months before they board a flight to the United States.

For more info: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html

Financial Aid

No. You will complete a portion of the class during the trip. The other portion will be completed after via Zoom sessions and online deliverables in the summer semester when we return to the US.

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title	What will class sessions abroad be like?

Coming soon!

Financial Aid

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title	Are there any study abroad scholarships?

All students attending this trip should apply for the UWF Foundation Study Abroad Scholarship to reduce out-of-pocket costs. More information about this funding opportunity will be sent to approved applicants by International Affairs in spring 2025.

More info about Scholarships for Study Abroad >>

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title	Can I use my military benefits (TA)?

Please direct questions related to using military benefits to

the

the Military & Veterans Resource Center (MVRC).

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title	Can I use my financial aid (loans, grant, scholarship)?

Please direct questions related to using student loans, scholarships, grants, and any other form of financial aid to your Financial Aid Counselor.

International Travel

Insurance & Legal Documents
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insurance

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title	Do I need insurance?

Yes. The University of West Florida requires that all UWF students and programs going abroad have Study Abroad Insurance coverage.

Insurance costs are included in the cost of the trip.

See Getting Insurance for Study Abroad for more information,

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title	Do I need a passport?

Yes.

US nationals must have a current valid passport. US passport must be valid for a minimum of one day from the day you enter Costa Rica

If you do not currently have a passport, we urge you to start the passport application process ASAP. You will need it well before the trip begins for things like airline tickets and travel insurance.

According to the State Department, current wait times are as follows (as of 10/12/23):

Routine processing: 8 to 11 weeks
Expedite processing (for an additional $60): 5 to 7 weeks

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title	Do I need a visa?

A visa is not required for U.S. citizens. International students should contact International Student and Scholar Services for guidance.

International Student and Scholar Services
Building 71
850.474.2479
international@uwf.edu

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title	Can I go as an F-1 visa student?

F-1 visa students should contact International Student and Scholar Services for guidance.

International Student and Scholar Services
Building 71
850.474.2479
international@uwf.edu

Technology & Electrical Devices

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title	Will my phone work?

If you have an iPhone or Android smartphone, you shouldn't have any problems. Older phones and some plans may pose an issue.

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title	Do I have to purchase an International Phone Plan?

Yes. All participants must purchase an international plan and have their mobile data turned on for the duration of the trip. This is non-negotiable, as we must be able to contact you at all times.

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title	How is the Wi-Fi?

Wi-fi is free at most hotels, but a bit less common at German restaurants and other businesses.

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title	Will I be able to plug in my phone/tablet/laptop charger?

You will need a universal travel power adapter. Pay attention to the type (Germany and Switzerland) and whether other purchasers had problems with the individual adapter.

We recommend bringing 1-2 adapters and a power strip.

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Do I need a tourist visa?

Not all people who wish to travel to Costa Rica need a tourist visa. Please consider the following information from the Embassy of Costa Rica:

US nationals do not require an entry visa to Costa Rica. However, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica within 90 days. (Either to return to your country or to go to another country). US passport must be valid for a minimum of one day from the day you enter Costa Rica. As a tourist US nationals cannot stay more than 90 days. For a stay longer than 90 days a residence permit must be established.

Other nationals might not require an entry visa to Costa Rica. To verify all entry requirements according to your nationality please see the following link nationalities.

Will I be able to use my hair dryer/straightener/razor?

It depends. Most US residences are on 110-voltage, but most of Europe uses 220-voltage. Some haircare devices come built with 110-220V Worldwide Voltage capability. If yours doesn't, then you may need a voltage converter because a 110V devices will fry itself when plugged into a European 220V outlet.

Money

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title	How do I get euros?

Best: at a bank ATM in Europe (we will show you a couple).
Not as good: from your institution, before you leave.
Bad: at an airport or a big ATM sign.

https://clark.com/travel/handling-your-money-overseas/ (October 26, 2023)

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title	What about my credit cards?

Determine whether you have/can get a "no foreign exchange fee" card. Most major card issuers have them, even some credit unions, but your card may include a 2 or 3 percent fee for every transaction.
Notify your issuer that you are traveling abroad a couple of days before departure.
If the retailer gives you a choice, pay in EUROS (the dollar option is often a bad exchange rate).

For more, see our source: https://clark.com/travel/handling-your-money-oversea/ (October 26, 2023)

Shopping, Dining, & Public Transportation

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title	Is it all schnitzel, pretzels, and huge beers?

No, food in Germany can be very healthy (salads are very popular) or very American (our fast food chains) or very traditional German. Gyros (called doner), kebab, pizza and other Italian dishes are also very popular. Since Germans love, and have, great bread, we will share the takeaway sandwich approach for inexpensive eating.

For beverages, some areas are wine producing and local products are always popular. Bottled water and soft drinks are common, and you can get most conveniently (and reasonably priced) at local supermarkets or convenience stores (drug stores) such as Rossmann, Müller, or dm. Soft drinks at kiosks and in bakeries are usually over-priced. Also: when you order a drink in restaurant, there are no refills.

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title	Where's the ice?

Culturally, Europeans don't typically serve ice in their drinks, unless it's a cocktail that specifically calls for it. And you probably won't find an ice machine at the hotel.

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title	Dining etiquette

Leaving a lot of food on your plate is considered somewhat impolite.

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title	Pharmacies

You can get medication against common cold symptoms, headaches, toothaches, and digestive problems etc. at pharmacies over the counter (they are everywhere, but expensive so bring ibuprofen/aspirin type products if you know will use them).

For more serious health problems, you will need to see a doctor. UWF Study Abroad Services has spent a lot of time researching insurance programs to make this easy.

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title	Public restrooms

Public restrooms are not free, costing anywhere from 30 cents up to 1 Euro (in cash, of course). If they are clean, we don’t mind!

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title	How do I navigate public transportation?

Bus and tram stops have machines that sell small tickets (you can choose English instructions). Once you get on the bus/tram, there is a machine to validate the ticket. It is a little confusing at first but you don't have to rush, find the machine and get it validated.

Weather & Attire

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title	What's the weather like?

Average Temps: High 75°F / Low 46°F

Rain: Just like Florida, it could be sunny in the morning and raining by lunch time. We recommend having a small umbrella and/or poncho.

Many websites, like AccuWeather, provide historical weather information, but don't rely on them as fact. Plan to bring clothes that are easy to layer.

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title	What should I wear?

This section is still under construction.

Plan to bring versatile clothing that is lightweight, easy to layer, professional, and comfortable.

Do Bring...

Tours: business casual attire is appropriate
Final dinner in castle: business professional attire is appropriate

Maybe Bring

Leggings: there are mixed opinions on whether leggings are common attire for women

Don't Bring

T-shirts with weird, political, funny, etc. slogans/pictures

We will share pictures, from previous trips, to help you stay on the nicer side of casual.

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title	Need a visual? Check out these photos.

Coming soon!

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title	Is there a packing list?

We're in the process of compiling a suggested packing list, using feedback from past students. Check back soon!

Miscellaneous

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title	Do the people speak English?

The vast majority of Germans speak very good English, but don't expect it. Some immigrants to Germany do not.

Practice German on Duolingo for at least 3 months. Locals usually speak English, but will only speak it to you if you make a good-faith effort to speak their language first.
-Sydney Alger, Argos on the Rhine, 2023

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title	Can I clean my laundry?

You should pack to minimize the need, but we have some tips in and near the accommodation, so ask. For example, we all wash microfiber apparel in the hotel sink and hang it up for a quick dry. Travel laundry detergent and clotheslines can be purchased online.

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title	What's the deal with air conditioning?

One surprise in Germany is that air conditioning isn’t popular. Trains, buses, department stores, McDonalds, etc. have it, but many affluent German homes do not. On hot days, we employ strategies to stay cool and take an extra shower.

Air conditioning will be even less common in Lucerne, Switzerland.

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title	Any tips for the trip over?

We like the neck pillow, noise cancelling headphones, and a portable charger (power bank).

Also, take a picture of your passport information and email the picture to yourself (we used to keep a photocopy in our suitcase, but we like this way better).

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title	Other cultural norms

Be quiet after 10pm, before 6am, and on weekends
Don’t be late; it's considered rude. We recommend being five minutes early.

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Dates & Deadlines
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Failure to follow these critical dates and deadlines could result in your participation being revoked.

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How to subscribe to this Google Calendar >>

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Contacts
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Argos on the Rhine Contact

AOTR Faculty Leader: Argos on the Rhine students will be under the instruction of Dr. Felicia Morgan. Contact her with questions about how your course (GEB4361) will be structured.

AOTR Advisor: For questions about your eligibility and degree plan, contact Brooke Ciolino.

MBA Contact

MBA Faculty Leader: MBA students will be under the instruction of Dr. Richard Hawkins. Contact him with questions about how your course (ECP6705) will be structured.

MBA Advisor: For questions about your eligibility and degree plan, contact your MBA Advisor: