Italy: Ancient Grains | Fall 2024

Status

Closed

Trip Destination

Alba, Italy

Approximate Price

See Cost Information Below

Trip Date

10/19/2024

TO

10/27/2024

Application Deadline

05/10/2024

Cost Information

Cost for Students enrolled in the BWR Course: ~$1500 (includes IFS and BWR Course, subject to change based on IFS Destination)
Cost for Students Not Willing to Take the BWR Course: ~$5000 (subject to change based on IFS Destination)

Above costs are for International Field Studies and may alter slightly, for other Be World Ready programs please see the approximate cost listed above.

Program Information

This opportunity is available to all Niagara College students who: 

    • Are currently enrolled in or returning to:
      • Culinary Management
      • Pastry Arts
      • Culinary Innovation
    • Have not yet taken part in a Be World Ready IFS experience since beginning their studies at Niagara College 
    • Are in good academic standing at the time of selection and prior to departure 
    • Are actively enrolled in a program at Niagara College during the term(s) of travel 
    • Agree to enroll in and complete the Be World Ready course – General (SOCL 1128) or Liberal (IDPL 9103) elective course OR agree to pay the full amount of the trip if not participating in the Be World Ready Course (up to ~6K, depending on IFS destination).
    • Students who do not wish to complete the 14-week Be World Ready course, during the fall 2024 term,  will be required to attend 2 in-person pre-departure training sessions, complete the 3 module self-directed pre-departure training modules, and the post-experience in-person debrief. For this, you will receive a BWR certificate for your portfolio and a $500 BWR grant applied to your student account upon return.

Cost for Domestic Students for “Alba, Italy” is : $500

Physical Intensity

Moderate - Walking around city, uneven terrain/inclines, standing in labs/site visits, kitchen environment

Accommodations

8 Nights in Hotels, Round Trip Airfare

Meals

Breakfast, lunches from teaching labs, meals served on flights

Steps to Apply

  1. First, complete the Eligibility Survey here to make sure you qualify.
    • 5 minutes to complete
  2. Click here to register for the “Alba, Italy: Ancient Grains” IFS
    • Approx. 30 minutes to complete, you will need a digital photo of your passport
  3. Confirmed eligible students will receive the instructions to make the $500-$1000 one time payment by May 10th, 2024 to confirm your seat on the IFS. **If not registering for the BWR course, you will be supplied the full flight amount to be paid upon confirmed registration, along with instructions for program payment by May 10th.
  4. Receive email confirmation that your seat has been saved from [email protected].
  5. Get your suitcase out!

Italy: Ancient Grains | Fall 2024

Ancient Grains: An Italian Culinary Adventure, made by you!

Arrive in Milan and dive straight into the city’s beating heart with a guided tour, exploring iconic landmarks like the awe-inspiring Duomo di Milano and the historic Sforzesco Castle. Afterward, indulge in a delectable welcome dinner.

Experience the culinary delights of Milan as you dive into a 5-day hands-on cooking course, crafting authentic Milanese dishes from scratch in Alba, Italy with our academic partner, Alba Accademia Alberghiera. Abla is known for its white truffles – and guess what…you’ll be there right in the middle of their world-famous, global gathering of the white truffle festival. A total culinary student bucket list item in the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy!

Beginning on Monday, Oct 21st, you will be immersed in 3 hour sessions of guided instruction per day. Learn how to make all the Italian essentials: cakes, pastries, pizza, focaccia, and sweet treats such as chocolate, dessert, coffee, cakes – you name it! Your experience will be complimented with guest lectures from culinary producers and experts to round out your hands-on experience.

This opportunity is available to all Niagara College students who: 

    • Are currently enrolled in or returning to:
      • Culinary Management
      • Pastry Arts
      • Culinary Innovation
      • NOTE: Students must have completed the SERVSAFE certificate and will require basic knowledge of knife skills, culinary terminology, food science principles, and cooking methods of starches, proteins, and vegetables.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: MAY 10, 2024

Travel Visa + Immigration Documentation:

Students are responsible for researching and applying for any required visa(s) or ETIAS on their own; Be World Ready is not able to apply for any travel visa(s) or ETIAS on your behalf. Be World Ready will provide you with supporting documentation 11 weeks before departure to apply for a Visa as long as you have confirmed your appointment date at [email protected]. All international students will need to ensure that their Study Permits and Student Visas are not expired before the date of return from the international experience, to ensure that there are no challenges upon reentry to Canada. Travel restrictions and requirements for entry to Canada may change at any time. All travellers are responsible for remaining up to date with any restrictions and requirements for travel and re-entry to Canada leading up to and throughout their International Field Study. Niagara College Canada will assume no responsibility for any changes to governing body travel restrictions, required documentation for travel or any refused entry as a result of change. Travellers are encouraged to review the Government of Canada Website for the latest restrictions and requirements for entry to Canada, as well as to check entry requirements to their destination country as a Canadian citizen. If an ETIAS is not acquired, a visa appointment is not secured, or if a visa application is rejected, Niagara College and Be World Ready are unable to refund any payments made. All payments made towards the International Field Study are final.

International Field Study Overview – Alba, Italy

Day 1 – OCTOBER 19:  Set off from the DJP or the Welland Campus with your travel crew, packed bags and excitement for the epic journey ahead! Begin your journey as you travel from Toronto to Montreal for a quick layover, then jet off to the enchanting city of Milan, Italy. It’s a long travel day, so bring your favourite snacks and plenty of water to keep your energy up!

Included Meals: Meals are included on the flight from Montreal to Milan

Dress Code: Casual

Day 2 – OCTOBER 20:  Benvenuto in Italia! Once you’ve gathered your luggage, jump aboard the bus and head straight to Milan! Upon arrival, gear up for a delightful group lunch that will energize you for the adventures ahead. Then, set off on an exciting, guided tour of your accommodations’ neighbourhood. Milan is brimming with attractions, museums, shops, and restaurants, each just waiting for you to explore. As the sun dips below the horizon, the evening is yours to indulge in a scrumptious dinner and soak up the vibrant ambiance of the city. Catch some rest, as tomorrow promises to be a full day!

Included Meals: Lunch

Dress Code: Casual

Day 3 – OCTOBER 21:  Alba! Kick off your morning with breakfast at the hotel, gearing up for the exhilarating day ahead. Today marks the beginning of your journey into the culinary delights of Italian cooking while you learn how to cook Peidmontese Sweets. Then, join us for a midday lunch. In the evening, take your time to enjoy a relaxed dinner while reflecting on the day’s experiences.

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel and Lunch

Dress Code: Chef jacket, comfortable pants, non-slip closed-toe shoes

Day 4 – OCTOBER 22Launch your exploration into the delicious world of Italian cuisine while you learn how the Italian way of cooking pizza and focaccia. Afterward, gather with us for a delightful lunch. As the day winds down, savor free time and a leisurely dinner while reminiscing about all the incredible experiences you’ve had.

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel and Lunch

Dress Code: Chef jacket, comfortable pants, non-slip closed-toe shoes

Day 5 – OCTOBER 23:  Today marks a fresh day of your culinary journey into the mouthwatering realm of Italian cuisine, where you’ll dive into the art of crafting “Agnolotti” Piedmontese stuffed pasta. After a morning filled with delicious discoveries, join us for a delightful lunch at AAA. Later, get changed and freshen up for a visit to the renowned flour mill, Mulino Marino, where you’ll see the magic behind the ingredients. As the day ends, enjoy some well-deserved free time and savour a leisurely dinner while reflecting on the fantastic experiences you’ve collected.

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel and Lunch

Dress Code: Chef jacket, comfortable pants, non-slip closed-toe shoes, Business Casual

Day 6 – OCTOBER 24:  You’ll continue your culinary exploration with a thrilling Truffle Hunt, uncovering the secrets of Italian cuisine. After a morning of delectable discoveries, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and visit the picturesque Hazelnut Farm, Cascina Barroero. As the evening approaches, unwind with some free time and savour a leisurely dinner, relishing the remarkable experiences you’ve gathered throughout the day. Tomorrow there will be an exam so be sure to be well rested!

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel and Lunch

Dress Code: Chef jacket, comfortable pants, non-slip closed-toe shoes

Day 7 – OCTOBER 25:  Your culinary journey takes a hands-on turn with a practical exam that tests your newfound skills. Afterward, treat yourself to a delightful lunch before crafting Italian Cream Puffs, Bigné. Cap off the day by proudly receiving your Italian Cooking certificate. As the evening sets in, take time to unwind, enjoy a leisurely dinner, and reflect on the extraordinary experiences you’ve gained throughout the day.

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel and Lunch

Dress Code: Chef jacket, comfortable pants, non-slip closed-toe shoes

Day 8 – OCTOBER 26:  Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. Today, enjoy some well-deserved free time. Suggestions for your day include checking out Alba’s White Truffle Market, or hopping a train to Torino, a city renowned for its art, history, culture, and delectable gastronomy. Be sure to rest up for an early departure the following day!

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel

Dress Code: Business casual

Day 9 – OCTOBER 27:  Travel Day! Get ready for the journey ahead—dress comfortably and meet us in the lobby at 5:45 a.m., local time. As you prepare to head home, take a moment to savor the unforgettable culinary memories you’ve created on this adventure! Grazie Italia!

It’s a long travel day, so bring your favourite snacks and plenty of water!

Included Meals: Meals are included on the flight from Milan to Montreal

Dress Code: Casual

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Disclaimers: Be World Ready does its best to execute the itinerary as outlined above, however, all elements are subject to change based on availability or requirement to adapt due to circumstances outside of our control. Students are reminded that it is their responsibility to research the entry requirements to the destination countries visited per their nationality and vaccination status.

Eligibility: Participation in an International Field Study is available for students who have not yet taken part in a Be World Ready IFS experience since beginning their studies at Niagara College. Be World Ready attempts to have a balance of domestic and international students, and that weighs into our selection process. Participants must be in good academic standing at the time of selection and prior to departure, be actively enrolled in a program at Niagara College during the term of travel and returning to studies in either Spring 2024 or Fall 2024 terms. Students must confirm that they understand and agree to their enrollment in the General or Liberal elective course requirements. Students who have an outstanding general or liberal elective course requirement that needs to be satisfied will be prioritized, as the mandatory Be World Ready course will provide 3 general or liberal elective credits. 

DEADLINE TO APPLY MAY 10, 2024 

 

* Price per student is in Canadian Dollars and reflects the Be World Ready (BWR) grant which has been applied to the total trip cost to heavily subsidize the rate per person. To qualify for the full value of the BWR grant, students must be enrolled in, and successfully complete the Be World Ready course (learn about the BWR course by clicking here). Assignments, travel requirements, and expectations will be clearly communicated by BWR staff prior to the start of term. Students who do not successfully complete the course risk not meeting the grant requirements, which could result in being charged back the full value of the grant (up to $6000, depending on the IFS). Please review the Grant Requirements section of the IFS webpage.

Included

  • Round-trip airfare, including 1 checked bag
  • Accommodations
    • Students will share rooms with assigned roommates (you will have the opportunity to select a roommate), each having their own bed.
    • Single accommodations, if desired, must be requested during registration. Additional fees will apply.
  • Travel Insurance
  • Transportation to/from Toronto
  • Meals: breakfast, lunches from labs, meals served on flights
  • Activities as described in the daily itinerary
  • Ground transportation in the country
  • The rate per student is in Canadian Dollars and inclusive of taxes and fees

Not Included

  • Visa Fees (if necessary)
  • Passport (or any associated costs)
  • Meals not outlined in the daily itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Souvenirs
  • Departure taxes (otherwise known as an Exit Tax) or additional fees for items not noted as included, if applicable. An example of additional fees could be overweight baggage.
The Be World Ready program at Niagara College prepares you for global success through education, exchange, and international experience. This program offers you the opportunity to experience culturally diverse learning environments, understand different perspectives and connect practical skills with a global mindset to help you launch your career.
An international field study is a 7 – 10 day experience that incorporates both vocational and cultural elements, while visiting some of the world’s most famous sights! Many of our international field studies are customized for specific Schools and programs at Niagara College, allowing students to apply the skills learned in the classroom in a real-world setting. All international field studies depart during the Niagara College break weeks to ensure that students do not miss any classes.
All international field studies will include roundtrip airfare (where applicable), accommodations, travel insurance, entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary, and some meals as outlined in the itinerary. A detailed list of inclusions and exclusions will be viewable on the posted webpage for any international field study on our website. Participants can expect to purchase some meals on their own and will need to bring spending money for any souvenirs, extra excursions, incidentals or items of a personal nature.

No. All aspects noted as included in the overall cost of the selected international field study are mandatory with no exceptions made. Our international field studies are built using group pricing and it is important that we do not deviate from the inclusions as it could negatively impact our ability to offer fair pricing to all participants.

In addition to affecting group pricing, these are our Niagara College International Field Study policies, and we cannot deviate from them, as they are part of our risk mitigation and management.

No. Students are not able to book their own flight in any way or alter the flights confirmed by Be World Ready. The round-trip flights as confirmed by Be World Ready are part of the package pricing, and the group is to travel to and from the destination country together.

These are our Niagara College International Field Study policies, and we cannot deviate from them, as they are part of our risk mitigation and management.

Each international field study destination has different accommodation providers or themes. Accommodation types that are used may include a combination of dorm-style rooms, homestays, tourist class hotels, or occasionally hostels. We strive to ensure we use centrally located accommodation when in city centres, allowing our participants to explore their surroundings more easily. Private accommodation is not guaranteed.

Rooms will vary in style on each trip; however, they are commonly twin share (2 people to a room with separate beds where possible). Single rooms may be available for an additional room fee provided adequate notice is given to Be World Ready staff. We strive to ensure you have comfortable, affordable accommodations anywhere you travel.

Students will be given the opportunity to meet their fellow travellers before the deadline to submit their roommate requests. Be World Ready does their best to accommodate rooming requests, but please note that final rooming arrangements are subject to room occupancy requirements and availability. A rooming list will be created by Be World Ready staff and shared with our accommodation providers before your departure. All participants will be emailed and will have the opportunity to identify their preferred roommate(s). While we will make every effort to ensure all preferences are met, we cannot guarantee it.

As long as they are current full-time Niagara College students and meet the program eligibility requirements. Unfortunately, we are not able to accept any persons to participate in any of our international field studies that are not current full-time students at Niagara College.

In addition to regular communications shared with participants leading up to the departure of their international field study of choice, Be World Ready requires students to attend the Be World Ready course, which includes but is not limited to, online trainings and pre-departure training sessions. During the pre-departure training sessions, students will be presented with the overall expectations of the trip as well as in-depth details concerning their itinerary.

During their time abroad, students will be able to communicate with their trip leads directly, 24/7, with any questions or concerns.

All participants are required to hold a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond any expected date of return to participate in any opportunity involving outbound travel.

You are responsible for researching and applying for any required visa(s) on your own. Be World Ready is unable to tell you what visa you require and how to apply. Be World Ready will provide you with supporting documentation as needed to apply for a Visa. While Be World Ready is not able to advise or guide you in a heightened level of detail through any particular visa process, you may consider hiring a travel visa service to assist you with the visa application process, such as CIBT visas. Please note that Be World Ready and Niagara College do not endorse any third-party vendors, nor have any influence or control over any outcomes or services rendered. We cannot apply for a visa on behalf of any participant.

All international students will need to ensure that their Study Permits and Student Visas are not expired before the date of return from the international experience, to ensure that there are no challenges with reentry to Canada.

Yes, while it is great to have a Nexus card, all participants must hold a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond any expected date of return in order to participate in any opportunity outside of Canada.
Depending on your destination country, we encourage you to book an appointment with a travel health professional regarding any additional vaccinations and medications you may need. It is strongly encouraged that you book an appointment with the Campus Nurse to go over this information. To do so, please visit the medical office to book an appointment at your respective campus.
Be World Ready takes the safety of our staff and students very seriously and has a rigorous risk management assessment when creating all opportunities. Be World Ready staff monitor destination country risk levels as communicated by the Government of Canada. Your safety is the most important aspect of this trip. Be World Ready and Niagara College take all possible precautions to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable experience while travelling abroad.
Students who sign up during the active promotional period for the international field study will be presented with a payment schedule to follow. At time of registration, students will be only required to pay the full non-refundable deposit that is disclosed at time of registration. Students who are permitted to sign up late will be expected to catch up on any payments missed according to the payment schedule advertised. In some instances, there may only be one payment due date.
Complete the eligibility quiz linked on the webpage of the International Field Study you’re interested in to find out if you meet eligibility requirements.
No. Students will not directly receive grant money as the full value of the grant has already been applied to the final payment to offset the total cost of the learning experience abroad. For students who do not complete all grant requirements by established deadlines (including the time of submission), the full grant amount may be charged directly to their student account. Details on grant requirements will be shared with you as part of the mandatory Be World Ready (SOCL 1128 or IDPL 9103) course, which all students participating in a Be World Ready International Field Study must enroll in and successfully complete to receive funding.
Students are only permitted to travel on an IFS to their home country if the IFS is program specific. IFS’ that are open to students from all programs do not permit students to travel if the destination is their home country. The purpose of the grant funding is to help students gain global competencies that they would not otherwise be exposed to, and as such, travelling to destinations they’ve previously lived in does not support this goal.
Students have the potential to travel and receive funding through Be World Ready up to 2 times; students can travel once on either an International Field Study, Summer Institute, or Semester Exchange, and they can potentially travel again for a Work Abroad opportunity (if eligibility requirements are met – please note that if more applications are received than work abroad grants available, priority will be given to those who have never travelled on any type of Be World Ready experience before). So, if you’re wanting to travel on an International Field Study, note that participation on an IFS is permitted only for students who have not yet experienced a Be World Ready IFS, Summer Institute, or Semester Exchange since beginning their studies at Niagara College.

Gallery

Other Important Information

Payment Options