Parents FAQs

We have found that parents love this program. At the end of the year, parents explain that they have seen dramatic and positive changes in their son or daughters life. Many wish we had offered this program when they were a student. Parents are often a great support to students through this challenging program. We are thankful for their interest and involvement throughout the year.

" Our daughter was in the Discover program last year. It was a true joy to watch her knowledge of the Bible and her faith develop and to observe the growth that took place because of this. She was challenged on her beliefs and because of this her faith has become more of her own and less of just following her parents and church. This process has enabled her to look at many things in a different light and to rethink some of her previous conclusions. " Denise Nash

What will my son or daughter gain from this year?

Some parents wonder if a program as exciting and fun, which involves travel to other countries, is also a wise investment in life to prepare students for further academic study. Discover is a very intense program that will spur your son or daughter on to growth in many aspects of their lives. Discover was created with the intention to offer high quality accredited education. Students will be challenged by a full 36 credit course load, preparing them for further academic study either at Prairie or another institution. Students will be personally challenged by living in constant community with one another. This teaches them how to form a network of healthy life-long supportive relationships. Students will be poured into spiritually by their professors and staff, providing students with spiritual counsel and insight. Students will gain a strong sense of who they are, and of their gifts and abilities which will prepare them to better choose their future ministry and vocation. Students learn to speak another language, opening many vocational opportunities in this global environment. Gaining leadership and interpersonal skills will give students skills that set them apart from their peers as they understand how to work and minister in a relational way.

Can my son or daughter handle this program?

Although Discover is a very intense program, students thrive in the environment of positive peer encouragement. Our integrated approach to education, and our emphasis on application creates a positive energy of determination. Furthermore, a devoted team of interns, instructors and directors provide academic support, personal accountability and direction to see your son or daughter succeed. Students do need to be disciplined and prepared to invest into their studies to do well.

How will Discover further their education?

Discover students will take 30 accredited college credits through Prairie Bible College that are transferable throughout Canada, the US and abroad. Students completing the Discover program will graduate from Prairie with a Certificate in Ministry with a focus in Intercultural Studies and Leadership. This will count as the first year of any four-year Bachelor of Arts degrees at Prairie, and in addition many of these credits are transferable to other institutions. Check with the registrar of that institution for transferability.

Can my son or daughter use transfer credits with this program?

Since Discover is a cohort program, all students must maintain the full 30 credit load, however there is the option to substitute several courses within the program. They may substitute previous credit for EN 101 Introduction to Writing & Research with another course if they have earned a C- or higher in a similar, transferable course from another institution, or if they have AP (Advanced Placement) credits from a high school English course. Any other transfer credit pertaining to the Discover program will be considered individually by the Director and Registrar. If students continue in a 4-year degree, they are able to transfer in additional credits. Contact our Registrar at registrar@prairie.edu for more information.

Future Student FAQs

 

We are delighted that you are considering the Discover program at Prairie. Browse this page for answers to frequently asked questions. If your questions remain unanswered, please call the Admissions office at 1.800.661.2425.

 

“I really appreciate the year I spent at Discover. God worked miraculously to bring me to Discover. I really felt at peace when I was there. When I was in Central America I felt that God was calling me to teach in a cross-cultural setting. I realized the needs of people in Central America, but also in North America, for a good education. That is why I am currently completing a Bachelor of Education degree in Teaching English as a Second Language in Sherbrooke, Quebec. I was able to transfer the experience and academic knowledge that I learned in Discover to my current situation. I am excited to see where God will bring me as a result of my year in Discover and my university degree in ESL. I recommend Discover to anyone who wants to open their eyes to the world and grow spiritually. As a result of Discover I was able to travel, meet wonderful people from various backgrounds and learn new things about myself and about God.” Naomi, QC.  Alum ‘03

Is international travel safe?

Discover has a staff team consisting of a directing couple and six interns, as well as trustworthy partnerships with local indigenous leaders in each travel location. The Discover staff has experience operating in all international locations. The staff takes precautions to prepare and educate the students on safety in these countries. Guatemala and El Salvador are, however, third world countries and therefore require a different level of awareness or "street smarts".

Is it difficult to become a student at a Canadian College?

No, this is not a problem. International students just need to provide their letter of acceptance at the boarder as they enter Canada to purchase the Student Authorization Forms ($125 Canadian).

How easy is it to stay in contact with students during the year?

Family can easily stay in contact with students while they are at Prairie or traveling internationally. In most locations students have ready access to the internet and affordable international calling. While in Central America, students will be provided with their own cell phone for program and personal use.

Is the Discover program an accredited college program?
Yes. Discover can be considered the first year of any of our four-year degrees and is accredited with ABHE (Association of Biblical Higher Education, formerly AABC).

Do students in the Discover program graduate?
Upon completion of the program, students will be on the Prairie campus, where they will graduate with a one-year certificate in Intercultural and Leadership Studies in the college’s graduation ceremonies. Failure to pass a course, complete program requirements or pay tuition in full will affect a student’s participation in the graduation ceremonies.

What kind of student is Discover looking for?
It is our desire to see students grow and mature. The ability to process life’s challenges and refine our inner spirit is something we value within the Discover program.

“My brothers, count it all joy when you fall into different kinds of temptations, knowing that the trying of your faith works patience. But let patience have its perfect work, so that you may be perfect and entire, lacking nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and with no reproach, and it shall be given to him.” James 1:2-5

Discover is a leadership program that focuses its training primarily on the spiritual development of the individual. It is important that students display a sincere and growing relationship with God. Students must demonstrate a teachable spirit and show a definite interest in spiritual training.

How many people are in the Discover program?
Discover accepts up to 24 students. Staff include 6 upper-classmen interns, a directing couple, and a field director.

Is the Discover program academically challenging?
Yes. Students will receive 30 college credits. Classes will involve extensive reading and writing. Although half of the school year is spent in Latin America, some of this time is used for class preparation for the experiential components. The Discover program is created to spur people on to growth in all areas of their life.

Can someone take the Discover program for only one semester?
The Discover program is a cohort program, and requires the total commitment of the entire team for the extent of the school year. Though the program does offer the same Christmas break at mid-point, Discover is not on the semester system.

What will the schedule be like while taking classes?
Most of the courses will be taught in modular format, with class time in the mornings and afternoon. In Central America, some classes will also be held in the evenings. Evenings or afternoons will then be available for personal time, required reading, and group activities. Most courses require pre and post reading, assignments, papers and major projects. As part of the Discover program, students will be registered for and required to attend all classes.

Will we have personal time?
There will be scheduled time throughout the week. This is the students’ time to rest, do homework, do extra curricular activities, be involved in local ministries, etc. It is the responsibility of the student to manage time appropriately, determining when rest, solitude and play are needed.

What kind of extra-curricular activities are in the area?
While in Alberta, students may choose to be involved with Prairie’s athletic teams* or intramural activities such as: ultimate Frisbee, indoor soccer, swimming, volleyball, basketball, hockey or the climbing club. Prairie Student Union also hosts several different events throughout the year. While in Guatemala and El Salvador, students may want to become familiar with local sites as they will have access to sport fields and basketball courts. Any participation to extra-curricular activities must not interfere with the students’ commitment to the Discover program.

*Due to the nature of the Discover schedule, students have not commonly been able to participate with the Prairie Pilots athletic teams. Each student is considered on an individual basis.

What kind of ministry will I be doing in Guatemala?
Discover is unique in that we are intricately involved in all that happens within the local churches. Students will be involved in ministries such as working with children, teaching English, evangelism, church planting, and community development.

Do I need to know how to speak Spanish before I arrive?
Though previous language training will be helpful, students are not required to have any Spanish language knowledge. The Discover program includes an Introduction to Language Learning Seminar. Students will also be enrolled in one of the Spanish Acquisition 101, 201, 301 or 401, dependent upon their entrance level. Students are encouraged to begin familiarizing themselves with the language before they arrive.

What does whole-life learning look like within Discover?
The students’ growth comes from a whole-life learning process. This process includes not only classroom times, but everything one does; working, playing, serving behind the scenes, or leading and engaging in cross-cultural ministry. All things are seen as part of one’s learning experience. At times, students will be asked to go over and above the normal learning requirements. However, we believe these experiences will develop character that is service-minded and committed to helping others by going the extra mile. Interns and staff are intricately involved in helping students process and learn through the discipleship process. Staff and interns live and work alongside students throughout the year, facilitating their learning experiences.

How will my leadership and communication training benefit me?
Whether in ministry or the business world, “Globalization is a top priority…commanding the energy, time and resources of countless corporations and their employees” (Walker et al., 2003, p. 5). Discover offers communication and team skills that are sought after by business and ministries. More and more employers are looking for individuals with people skills who can lead intercultural teams effectively and in a proactive way. Discover aims to provide this type of demanded training.

What kind of intercultural ministry training will I receive?
Our overall approach to missions training is to immerse students within the culture and among the people. Students will be trained to understand and apply various approaches to church planting and community development, while ministering alongside other team members. Students will come away having learned about cross cultural communication and intercultural leadership. Students will receive training in the Spanish language and learn how to work through ethnocentrism, culture shock, cultural stress, assimilation and adaptation.

What can I do with my intercultural/leadership training?
Training received in the Discover program will be valuable for those wishing to continue on in missionary work, discipling or public relations. Students will be able to use their training to work and minister more competently in a multi-cultural environment, international business or ministry.

Can I get a job to make money during the year?
Due to immigration policies and program demands, students will not be able to rely on an outside job for money. Americans, we do advise that you ask that your Student Authorization also confirms your work permit in case you continue in further study in Canada. You will need to purchase your SA at the Canadian border or at the airport when you are clearing Canada Customs and Immigration. At that time, ask the immigration officer to authorize your work permit. It is difficult to get authorized afterwards, and may result in an additional cost if you do not so when you first enter the country.

Can I bring my own vehicle?
Students are permitted to bring their vehicle to Prairie for personal use during free time

How do we get to Guatemala?
The Discover team will fly from Calgary International Airport to Guatemala City Airport, connecting through the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. Total flight time is approximately 6hrs, 15min. Return flights will also follow this route.

Can my friends and family visit me during the year?
Students may have visitors; however, due to the structure and rigor of the program, we ask that all visits be confirmed with the director of Discover. This will ensure that visits are scheduled at the most beneficial time for you. Accommodations on location in Latin America are limited and may affect the availability of guest housing.

How do I locate a ride home at Christmas?
There may be staff or students from the same area. When the Discover year starts, students may be able to arrange a ride with someone. If students are flying home, they will need to arrange a ride to the Calgary International Airport. Daily bus transit from Three Hills to Calgary is available. Students are asked to have funds available to cover any shuttle costs.

After Christmas holidays, do I come back to PBC Campus?
Yes, students will need to be back on the PBC campus after Christmas. There will be an introduction to second semester courses, and shortly after the team will depart for Central America.

What should I do about Canadian/US/Guatemalan money and bank accounts?
While at Prairie, students can set up an account at a local bank free of charge, if desired. Otherwise, using a bank/interact card is convenient in any country. Students need to plan on entering Guatemala with US currency, and exchange it upon arrival. Canadian students can use their CDN bank cards to draw out local currency in Guatemala. Students will need to pay an airport tax of 20Q (approx. $3) when leaving Guatemala to Canada.

What are the exchange rates?
Exchange rates vary daily. One US dollar is worth approximately $1.05-$1.10 Canadian dollars, and approximately $7 Guatemalan Quetzals. El Salvador deals in US currency, and prices are very similar to Guatemala. Check daily rates on the Web at sites such as www.expedia.com.