Service-Learning Program in Guadalajara, Mexico

Study Abroad integrated with Volunteer Service Volunter in Mexico, Volunteer Service Combined with Academic Study

Deeper, More Meaningful Study Abroad

The blending of the great Meso-American and Spanish cultures has made Mexico one of the world's most rich and glorious cultures. Its architecture, music, and folk art—as well as food—are appreciated throughout the world. As part of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Mexico struggles to achieve economic parity with Canada and the U.S. It works to strengthen its democratic institutions and broaden the participation of its citizens in economic prosperity and education. Guadalajara, the nation's second-largest city, is the capital of the State of Jalisco, which has given the country much of its distinguished character, justifying the traditional slogan, "Jalisco is Mexico." It is an ideal place to experience this great nation in all its variety and complexity.

As an undergraduate, you will spend a semester in Guadalajara developing your Spanish skills; living with a Mexican family; studying Spanish language and Mexican contemporary issues; and serving 15-20 hours a week in an established service agency. Your volunteer service immerses you in the culture and deepens your understanding of Mexican society in a way that goes beyond that experienced in traditional study abroad programs. It also facilitates your mastery of Spanish.

IPSL also offers a graduate program at this location. For more information about the Masters Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies program, please click HERE

Program Facts

Language of Instruction

Spanish and English

Affiliated institution:

Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara

Courses & Credits:

Spanish Language | Credits: 2-8 (2 per module)
Spanish Language | Credits: 4-8 (4 per module)
Social, Political and Economic Structures of Mexico | Credits: 4
Contemporary Mexican Society and Culture | Credits: 2
Transcultural Awareness and Social Integration | Credits: 2
Transcultural Awareness and Social Integration | Credits: 3

Service Opportunities:

working with street children, providing teaching, recreation, and companionship
helping single mothers
special education
teaching English
working with Mexican social workers on programs designed to help the poor
More...

Housing:

Homestay

Dates, Costs & Deadlines:

Spring 2010	01/11/2010 - 06/11/2010	$12,200	Application Due 12/01/2009
Summer 2010	06/14/2010 - 08/06/2010	$7,370	Application Due 04/15/2010
Fall 2010	08/16/2010 - 12/03/2010	TBD	Application Due 06/01/2010

Why IPSL?

Accelerated language learning
Integrated study abroad experience
Making a difference to people in need
Full cultural immersion
Real cultural understanding
Meaningful growth and personal insight

Program Director(s):

Sra. Martha Arreguin Romero

Eligibility:

Applicants should have completed 2 years of secondary school Spanish or 1 year of college/university Spanish. Fall students may arrive early for an intensive preparation course in Spanish at an additional cost. The program welcomes students of any nation. TOEFL equivalent 550.

What's Included:

Fees include: all instruction; room and board; service placement and supervision; health insurance; administrative fees; and pre-departure materials. Personal expenses not covered by fees include: airfare; books; meals when not with host family; spending money; and local travel.

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