Q&A with Hibah Faheem, Biological Sciences and Psychology undergrad

My experience was amazing! I got to do hands-on field work that I would never have got a chance to do at UCalgary, such as handling sea turtles and collecting plastic from beaches. I went on snorkelling and overnight hiking trips for class. Also, I got to experience a new culture and observe various plants and animals only found in that part of the world.  Especially in Galapagos, it was a unique experience living on an island and walking across the beach (where sea lions roamed) to attend class.

Everything seemed to happen on the same day. We were in Galapagos islands when we were told that classes would be online for a while. Some universities were calling their students back and my peers were petitioning to let them stay in Ecuador. A few hours later we were told that we had to go back to the mainland because Galapagos did not have good wifi. Then, a few hours later we were told that we had to leave to the mainland in the next couple days because Ecuador was closing its borders to everyone. Spring break had just begun and we spent it frantically looking for flights from Ecuador back to our home countries. Within three days we went from doing field work on the beach to going home.

I could not find any flights back to Canada. Air Canada refused to help and travel agencies did not know what was going on. Ecuador at this time was on full lock down so no flights were coming in. I was quarantined with a very nice host family for a week. The advisors at USFQ and UCalgary were desperately trying to find me a flight back home. The advisor at USFQ found me one but it was very short notice, I was informed five hours before I had to leave for the airport.  Everything was so rushed and last minute. 

The team from UCalgary really helped me stay calm and looked for flights for me. They gave me contacts that I could use to assist in my flights and (Residence Service) provided a townhouse I could self-isolate for in for two weeks, covering the cost of the townhouse and all meals. The University also offered to pay any additional costs it took to return home, like hotels and flights. The advisors also helped answer questions about my course schedules for next year. I was very appreciative of everything UCalgary did to assist me.