Frequently Asked Questions
How are Quest trips funded?
The cost of each Quest is the responsibility of each participant, though our staff assists with Shareholder Fundraising that can help defray some or all of the costs. You can learn more about how Shareholder Fundraising works here.
Is it okay for me to go on a Quest with my friend or significant other?
It’s important that Quest groups are inclusive of everyone and that strong “factions” don’t arise. Some couples and groups of friends are excellent at welcoming others and participating in big groups, while others are not. Know thyself.
Where do Quest groups meet?
Most meetings will be in the Student Lounge (Room 204) at the Crossing. The Crossing is located at 1127 University Ave (on the corner of Charter and University on the same block as the Chemistry Building). Sometimes Quest groups will do service projects off campus, or meet at a campfire site in the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. You'll receive more information about the pre-trip meeting schedule upon accepting an invitation to travel with Quest.
What about passports and visas?
If you are applying for an international Quest it is extremely important that you have your passport by the time of your application. Go to the U.S. Department of State's Passport & International Travel webpage to apply for one right away! The later you apply for your passport, the less chances you have to be able to join one of the international trips. If you already have a passport, it must be valid for at least 6 months after the return date of your Quest.
As for visas for US citizens (for international students, read below), the cost is already included in the cost of your trip and The Crossing will take care of them.
Is There a Language Requirement for Quest?
No. Being able to speak the language at your Quest destination is a great asset, and can enrich your Quest experience. However, all trips are led in English, and hosts, leaders, and other individuals help to translate. It is encouraged that your group learn at least basic phrases in your host language before departing- a simple "hello" and "thank you" can go a long way in fostering goodwill. Different Quest trips vary in their degree of language immersion-contact your trip leader or the Quest Coordinator for more information.
What if our destination country becomes unsafe?
We are committed to keeping Quest students safe, but also realize that traveling away from home always entails a degree of risk. Decisions about group travel when conditions are unstable are made by the staff of the Crossing, using information from the U.S. State Department and Center for Disease Control as guidance. In the event of unrest, the group may choose to alter their travel plans in-country to increase security, or to delay the Quest. International Quests include travel insurance in the cost of the trip, so if the risk for travel becomes too great, any expenses that are already paid for should be reimbursed by the insurance company.
Can I participate on a Quest trip if I don't identify as Christian?
Absolutely! Quest trips are open to students from all faith backgrounds (and lack thereof). In fact, we find that the more diverse a team of students (in religious background, major, hometown, ethnicity, year in school, previous travel experiences, etc.), the more meaningful growth occurs within the group. We respect the religious beliefs of all our students and the communities we work with, and our main purpose is not to evangelize, but to interact with pressing global questions and bring the knowledge and passion of our group back home. We do discuss deep questions and ask that students be open to engaging their whole self-moral, spiritual, emotional and intellectual-with others in the group.
I am an international student. Can I come on a Quest trip?
Yes! We welcome ALL UW-Madison students to apply for this program. However, you must know that the different countries that we visit have different visa requirements for non-USA citizens. Therefore, we ask that you check with your country's embassy in the country you want to visit in order to find out about visa requirements. Unfortunately, we here at Quest and The Crossing can't help you with that.
How is Quest different than studying abroad?
Quest trips are run through The Crossing, a registered student organization at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and are not affiliated with International Academic Programs (the study abroad office). The themes and issues we explore are globally relevant, and often complement what is being taught in various classes throughout campus. However, Quest does not involve formal classes or tests (although we do meet together to discuss and learn about issues in our pre-trip meetings), and does not grant academic credit. Quests aren't supposed to be "just another class", but a time for students to be together as fully-engaged, energetic, creative, morally and spiritually-charged beings.
How does Quest find host partners?
Quest only works with host partners who reliable, trustworthy, and whose work aligns with our mission and values. Most Quest partners are individuals or organizations that joined the program through a personal connection with a leader or staff member.
What is the meaning of life?
Tough one. We’re not sure yet, but think it has something to do with walking humbly, serving others, seeking peace and justice, leaving places better than you found them, expanding your mind, and enjoying the bounty and beauty of the earth. Let us know what you think!
The cost of each Quest is the responsibility of each participant, though our staff assists with Shareholder Fundraising that can help defray some or all of the costs. You can learn more about how Shareholder Fundraising works here.
Is it okay for me to go on a Quest with my friend or significant other?
It’s important that Quest groups are inclusive of everyone and that strong “factions” don’t arise. Some couples and groups of friends are excellent at welcoming others and participating in big groups, while others are not. Know thyself.
Where do Quest groups meet?
Most meetings will be in the Student Lounge (Room 204) at the Crossing. The Crossing is located at 1127 University Ave (on the corner of Charter and University on the same block as the Chemistry Building). Sometimes Quest groups will do service projects off campus, or meet at a campfire site in the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. You'll receive more information about the pre-trip meeting schedule upon accepting an invitation to travel with Quest.
What about passports and visas?
If you are applying for an international Quest it is extremely important that you have your passport by the time of your application. Go to the U.S. Department of State's Passport & International Travel webpage to apply for one right away! The later you apply for your passport, the less chances you have to be able to join one of the international trips. If you already have a passport, it must be valid for at least 6 months after the return date of your Quest.
As for visas for US citizens (for international students, read below), the cost is already included in the cost of your trip and The Crossing will take care of them.
Is There a Language Requirement for Quest?
No. Being able to speak the language at your Quest destination is a great asset, and can enrich your Quest experience. However, all trips are led in English, and hosts, leaders, and other individuals help to translate. It is encouraged that your group learn at least basic phrases in your host language before departing- a simple "hello" and "thank you" can go a long way in fostering goodwill. Different Quest trips vary in their degree of language immersion-contact your trip leader or the Quest Coordinator for more information.
What if our destination country becomes unsafe?
We are committed to keeping Quest students safe, but also realize that traveling away from home always entails a degree of risk. Decisions about group travel when conditions are unstable are made by the staff of the Crossing, using information from the U.S. State Department and Center for Disease Control as guidance. In the event of unrest, the group may choose to alter their travel plans in-country to increase security, or to delay the Quest. International Quests include travel insurance in the cost of the trip, so if the risk for travel becomes too great, any expenses that are already paid for should be reimbursed by the insurance company.
Can I participate on a Quest trip if I don't identify as Christian?
Absolutely! Quest trips are open to students from all faith backgrounds (and lack thereof). In fact, we find that the more diverse a team of students (in religious background, major, hometown, ethnicity, year in school, previous travel experiences, etc.), the more meaningful growth occurs within the group. We respect the religious beliefs of all our students and the communities we work with, and our main purpose is not to evangelize, but to interact with pressing global questions and bring the knowledge and passion of our group back home. We do discuss deep questions and ask that students be open to engaging their whole self-moral, spiritual, emotional and intellectual-with others in the group.
I am an international student. Can I come on a Quest trip?
Yes! We welcome ALL UW-Madison students to apply for this program. However, you must know that the different countries that we visit have different visa requirements for non-USA citizens. Therefore, we ask that you check with your country's embassy in the country you want to visit in order to find out about visa requirements. Unfortunately, we here at Quest and The Crossing can't help you with that.
How is Quest different than studying abroad?
Quest trips are run through The Crossing, a registered student organization at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and are not affiliated with International Academic Programs (the study abroad office). The themes and issues we explore are globally relevant, and often complement what is being taught in various classes throughout campus. However, Quest does not involve formal classes or tests (although we do meet together to discuss and learn about issues in our pre-trip meetings), and does not grant academic credit. Quests aren't supposed to be "just another class", but a time for students to be together as fully-engaged, energetic, creative, morally and spiritually-charged beings.
How does Quest find host partners?
Quest only works with host partners who reliable, trustworthy, and whose work aligns with our mission and values. Most Quest partners are individuals or organizations that joined the program through a personal connection with a leader or staff member.
What is the meaning of life?
Tough one. We’re not sure yet, but think it has something to do with walking humbly, serving others, seeking peace and justice, leaving places better than you found them, expanding your mind, and enjoying the bounty and beauty of the earth. Let us know what you think!
