There are a few things to consider when deciding which Quest will be the best experience for
you, including:

Cost: International trips usually vary in cost between $1000 and $2000. Fundraising usually can
bring down the cost of one of these trips to around $500.Fundraising can often help offset a
significant portion of this cost, but these Quests still require a substantial financial commitment.
Don’t let the cost of an international trip be intimidating, but plan wisely. so your Quest
experience isn’t tainted by financial worries. If you want to have a Quest experience on a low
budget, try a domestic trip, which usually cost around $300.less that $500.

Theme: Each Quest has a different them, such as forgiveness, peace-making, environmental
stewardship, or social justice. You could choose a Quest that focuses on a long-time passion so
that you can be a particularly knowledgeable asset for the group, or choose a theme that is
unfamiliar so you can discover a whole new realm of ideas. Both options are good, but it’s
important for you to think about how the theme will shape your experience.

Your Major/Career: Do you want to put some of your academic knowledge in action? Some
Quests focus deeply on politics, history, and religious conflict while others delve into ecology
and agriculture. Some Quest students use the trip to help their major come alive far beyond the
classroom, while others use Quest as an escape from the school grind. Choose what’s best for
you.

Group size: Some Quests are designed for quite small groups (around 6 to 8 people) while others are
larger. For most groups we aim for between 8 and 12 total travelers. What size
group would you prefer to travel with?

Timing: Quests take place during winter break, spring break, and following the spring semester.
Do you have a campus or summer job that will conflict with any of these times? Does your
family have other plans (holidays, vacations, graduations, etc.) that might make it hard to go on a
particular Quest?

Language: Some Quest destinations provide the opportunity to communicate in another
language. We never require language competency for Quest participants, but it’s nice if several
people in the group can communicate with the locals. If you want to expand your language skills
or practice a language you have some competency with, choose an appropriate Quest.

Future travel: Is there a place you’re considering for studying abroad or as a future PeaceCorps
volunteer? Quests are a great opportunity to learn about and visit a far off place with a
knowledgeable and supportive group of people.

Health: Traveling internationally entails more of a health risk than domestic travel. If you have
particular health concerns, check with your doctor about which trips are appropriate for you.

Roughing It: Some Quests involve camping, cooking your own food, and not showering all that
often, while others have more lavish accommodations. Some folks like a rustic feel and some
don’t, so pick a trip that fits your preference.

These are just some things to think about as you consider your Quest options. If you have
questions about a particular Quest, contact the staff at the Crossing or the leader for a trip that
you’re considering.

Is Quest for me?

Do Quests require a certain religious background?