Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I become a member?
A: Please see the membership page.

Q: How much do the trips cost?
A: The cost of the trips vary by destination, events, and activities. Typically, the DC trips have ranged from $450-$550. In-state trips typically are much lower, although the costs depend on the destination and the costs of the various activities in which the organization members might be engaged.

Q: What is my money used for?
A: The trip fees pay for travel, lodging, membership dues, conference/seminar costs, and, occasionally, special events such as a dinner, concert, play, or the like. The organization refunds all funds collected beyond the costs of the trip and dues.

Note: In most organizations, the President or organizer is given a free trip, paid for by the other members. The President of Journeys With Sam foregoes such a perk. Members should reciprocate this generosity by supporting the President's decisions, working hard to make each trip a success, and being a team player.

Q: What if I pay money but can't go on the trip?
A: Like all organizations, Journeys With Sam must pay for non-refundable purchases such as airline tickets. In addition, the price of lodging per individual is directly related to the number of people paying. Therefore, each student must agree to pay a non-refundable deposit to secure his/her spot. There is no exception to this. For larger trips, students are usually allowed a two-part payment plan. Once a payment is made, it is nonrefundable.

Q: Are their restrictions on my activities during Journeys With Sam trips?
A: By participating in a JWS trip, students agree to participate in various group activities: tours, dinners, concerts, and the like. Of course, not every student will like every activity, but the students gain benefits from the group participation, and part of the deal is to be a good team player. Students are representing the University, and they are expected to demonstrate professional behavior. Rudeness, excessive drinking, or otherwise dangerous behavior is not acceptable and can result in exclusion from future activities.

Q: Do I have to fill out any forms for the trip?
A: Students will sign an agreement form with each payment, acknowledging that their payment is nonrefundable. Further, students must sign an indemnity release, waiving the organization, its officers, its advisor, the Political Science Department, and the University from any liability. All travel arrangements entail risk, and the organization, its members, its officers, its advisor, the Political Science department, and the University bear no responsibility for problems that may arise.

Q: What are my responsibilities?
A: Your responsibilities are to: (1) support the President's decisions, (2) maintain professional behavior, (3) represent the University well, (4) pay all dues and (5) live up to all commitments. In addition, we hope you will endeavor to network, learn as much as possible, be a great travel mate, and have a wonderful time!