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"Every day, our group journeyed to Las Pintas to conduct our summer school for a group of socio-economically disadvantaged, but intellectually hungry children. Although we were their teachers of math, science, hygiene, literacy, and the arts, the children in turn were teachers to us. Every day they faithfully walked to our makeshift school-even barefoot or in the rain-and always with a smile. Life has never shown me more qualified teachers of compassion, patience, and flexibility."
- Stephanie, University of South Carolina
The blending of the great Meso-American and Spanish traditions 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 distinctive character, justifying the traditional slogan, "Jalisco is Mexico." It is an ideal place to experience this great nation in all its variety and complexity.
You will spend the summer in Guadalajara developing your Spanish skills; living with a Mexican family; studying Spanish language and Mexican contemporary issues; and serving approximately 15 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.
