There has been some confusion about Christmas break and I want to try to clarify some things.  Over Christmas break, Dec. 18 - Jan. 8, you will need to vacate the FYM housing in most locations.  If you are at one of our locations in Africa, you have the option of going home, which we highly recommend if you can swing it financially, or staying at our house in Jefferys Bay, South Africa.  The cost for you to stay there and provide you with food is $200 for the 3 weeks.  It is up to you to secure the flight down to Jeffery's Bay (Port Elizabeth).  If you choose to stay somewhere else in country, you will need to sign a waiver form releasing AIM of any liabilities.  We need to know what your plans are, we have limited space in the house at Jeffery's Bay.

If you are going to New Zealand, you also have the option of staying during Christmas break.  You will stay at the FYM house for an additional $200.  Again, I need to know what your plans are.  Don't just assume there will be room for you.

As you think about the break, let me encourage you to take advantage of the time and go home and visit family and friends.  Nine months is a long time to be gone and a long time to live in tight quarters with people.  It's healthy to take a break.  We have seen in the past when individuals have stayed all the way through that by the time March & April roll around, they were wishing they went home during the break.  Africa especially is a tough place to live.  Your second semester will go so much better if you can have a healthy break.

Anyway, that decision is up to you.  If you plan on staying you must let me know right away so we can plan accordingly.  If I don't hear from you I assume you will be going home or to some other location and we won't worry about you.