Reading the Globe

As part of TAMIU’s “Reading the Globe” experience, students will have the opportunity to compete for a paid educational adventure to a place to be determined during winter or spring break. Students will visit historical sites, enjoy educational lectures by local instructors, and may participate in service-learning activities.

Please read the guidelines found in Essay Competition.

There is not a minimum GPA; however, if you are failing a class at the time we select students, you will not be eligible.

Because the university funds the cost of the trip and the resources are limited.

Yes, as long as you are a first-time freshman and have not previously taken UNIV 1201.

Yes, you can participate. However, to go on the trip this year, you MUST be 18 before the trip. If you are selected and WON'T be 18 before the trip, you will be eligible to go the following year.

Early College High School and Staggs Academy of International and STEM Studies students are eligible to participate in the RTG Program. If selected to go on the RTG trip, students MUST be 18 years old at the time of departure and have taken UNIV 1201 during the Fall semester. If students are not 18 years of age and are selected to go on the trip, they may take the RTG trip the following year when they are 18 years old.

Some countries require visas; others do not. It will depend on where we are traveling. The cost can vary from $50.00-200.00. You will be responsible for the cost of the visa.

Yes, you are responsible for the cost of your passport and, if necessary, your visa. Please visit the Office of International Experiences to learn about their services and application process.

Unless there are vaccines required for entry into the country, such as yellow fever, you and your doctor may determine which are needed.

Any medication you might need, comfortable clothing, compression socks, entertainment, etc.

We recommend a minimum of $500.

If you transfer your sophomore year, you must reimburse the University the full cost of the trip. TAMIU has invested heavily in the students' educational experience abroad. Students selected to go on the trip become RTG Ambassadors are expected to “pay-it-forward” with university service such as participating in events promoting RTG, fundraising, and planning events the following year after the trip.

The University prepares students for study abroad travel by providing information regarding what electronic equipment can or should be taken abroad. This is part of the training that all students have to participate in before departure.

There are typically a minimum of two TAMIU chaperones plus local guides.

Local emergencies due to student health issues are handled by TAMIU personnel and the local representatives who best know how to secure medical assistance. This can range from a visit to a clinic to hospitalization. TAMIU staff work with

TAMIU health insurance representatives to resolve any access issues that may arise. Emergencies that are due to external forces, such as weather or political unrest, are handled by staying in close touch with the local TAMIU Risk Management Office and the Texas A&M System Offices that guide us on procedures.

Fortunately, no major emergencies have occurred in any previous trip.