today i went to classes and did some homework. i also had my first pre-trip meeting about belize. there are two more meetings later this month and next month. we talked a little about logistics, and i met the other people i'd be traveling with. i know you both had some concerns, so i'll tell you what i know so far:

1. the places we will be staying are not in city areas, so there is not a huge risk of major crimes against tourists. 

2. we will always be traveling together as a group, so there is no way i would be alone in the city. the three chaperones have all visited belize about 7-8 times already, so they are experienced with this program.

3. in terms of disease and sickness, there isn't any risk for ebola or other major diseases. at the next meeting (in exactly 2 weeks), we will be meeting with the international travel doctor, who will be telling us more about staying healthy in belize. she will also be going over our immunization forms with us, so i will need a copy of my immunization form. could i get it this weekend? 

that's all i can think of that relates specifically to concerns you have voiced. if you have any more questions, please let me know and i'll try to answer them! i was given some handouts with the tentative itinerary and the packing list, as well as the syllabus, and i am extremely excited. thank you so much for letting me take this opportunity to go abroad. i know that it will be an amazing experience and i really appreciate your support!