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Study in Cuenca, ecuador

May 5-June 1, 2012

 

For a third year in a row, UNCP is pleased to announce a unique opportunity that will immerse you in the Spanish language and Latin American culture by studying abroad for four weeks in Ecuador while you earn credits toward your academic program at UNCP.

This intensive language program is open to all UNCP students to want to begin or further develop their Spanish language skills (beginner or intermediate level only). This study abroad is intended to be a total foreign language immersion experience. We have combined the academic excellence of Estudio Sampere, the magnificent landscapes and natural environment, and the history and flavor of the city of Cuenca.

 

You will enroll in 6 credit hours at the Estudio Sampere facilities, situated in a detached building overlooking the Barranco River in the city centre. Your SPN class will be taught by a native faculty provided by Estudio Sampere and will meet Monday to Friday, for 4-5 hours per day. SPN 3510 Study Abroad will grant credit based on participation in cultural events in and around Cuenca.

 

At the end of the program students will receive an official certificate/transcript issued by Estudio Sampere stating the class taken and the grade received. This certificate/transcript will be sent to UNCP International Programs Office upon completion of the program for transfer of credits (must receive a grade of 'C' or better).

 

Students will be housed with a host family. There will be two students per family. Full board will be provided: three meals per day (breakfast, lunch and dinner), and a weekly laundry service for the duration of the program.

 

A colloquium of lectures covering selected topics in Latin American culture, society and history will be included. Additional activities (conducted in Spanish) may include the Cathedral of Cuenca, Monastery of El Carmen de Asuncion, Museum of the Aboriginal Cultures, and Monastery and Museum of La Concepcion. There will also be other school activities such as a cooking classes, “Tapas” dinners, theatre, museums, and video movies. Individual activities may include a visit to the flower market, soccer game, or visit to the local flea market.

 

After classes and academic activities, students can enjoy the beauty of the city, socialize with their host families, attend special events, etc. Every Saturday there will be a day trip to Ingá pirca, Parque del Cajas and Chordeleg (conducted in Spanish).

Academics

During the first day of classes, students will be assessed of their Spanish language ability (oral and written tests) and placed in the appropriate level (beginner or intermediate)**. Students will receive three hours of transfer credit for a UNCP Spanish course and three credit hours for SPN 3510 Study Abroad.

Estudio Sampere Course	UNCP Course
Level 1/Beginner	SPN 1310/Elementary Spanish I
Level 2/ Elementary	SPN 1320/Elementary Spanish II
Level 3/Intermediate I	SPN 2310/Intermediate Spanish I
Level 4/Intermediate II	SPN 2320/Intermediate Spanish II

**NOTE: Students are responsible for their placement exam and placing in the appropriate level in order to transfer credit back to UNCP. If a student places in a level they have already received credit for...it will be repeat credit.

 

Students must take the above Estudio Sampere (A-B) courses listed together in order to receive full UNCP credit (3 credits). No partial credit will be awarded.

About Ecuador

Ecuador is the smallest of the Andean countries. The 283,000 square kilometers that make up Ecuador contain the typical charms and contrasts of Latin America. Ecuador is divided into four very different regions, most of which can be reached in a single day's journey. Dominated by magnificent volcanoes like Cotopaxi (5,800 m.), the spirit of "La Sierra" comes alive in the Indian markets and cities of Quito and Cuenca, which still preserve their colonial atmosphere. Majestic Andean valleys make up “La Sierra”, which enjoys spring-like weather all year round at an average altitude of 2,400 m.

"La Costa" is tropical, with a dry season from May to December and a wet season from January to April. It has fine beaches and fishing villages bathed in equatorial sunshine, warm seas, and all the “samba” and the heat of the tropics. "El Oriente" is the name given to the rain forest of the Amazon, where the rain is constant. Travel to the Amazon forest is easier in Ecuador than in any other country, partly because distances are shorter and transport links better. "Las Galapagos" have a special microclimate. These famous islands contain remarkable wildlife - iguanas, sea lions, pelicans and other exotic creatures - that show no fear of human presence.

 

The City Cuenca is the cultural capital of Ecuador and its third largest city. It is also Ecuador's best-kept secret. Cuenca and its surrounding region are rich in history, with a colonial atmosphere that has survived thanks to years of almost complete isolation. Cuenca is a city of fascinating contrasts: two universities, museums and art galleries stand alongside Indian markets rarely visited by foreigners. Exploring this delightful Latin American city and getting to know its friendly people will make you want to stay forever.

Price is $2,700 and includes:  

• Roundtrip airfare from NC to Quito/Guayaquil, Ecuador.
• Transportation to/from Quito or Guayaquil to Cuenca Airport.
• Hotel in Quito or Guayaquil for one night.
• Full room and board with host-families.
• 22/24 Spanish classes per week, two classes a week focused on culture.
• All book and class materials (does not include Spanish/English dictionary).
• 6 credit hours. 3 credits for Spanish (see above) and 3 credits for SPN 3510 Study Abroad.
• Entrance to museums and monuments, transport on all organized day trips outside of Cuenca.
• Cultural events.
• International Health Insurance (REQUIRED).

What is not included in the Ecuador study abroad cost:

• Spanish/English dictionary.
• Airline baggage fees or overweight baggage fees.
• Passport fees.
• UNCP Study Abroad Application Fee ($50).
• Transportation from Cuenca to airport for return flight to U.S.
• Flight from Cuenca to either Quito or Guayaquil (approximately $100 USD, subject to change).

Language Requirements

This program is for students who wish to begin their Spanish language studies or are at the intermediate level. Please see course offerings above.

 

Payment Plan:
Individual payment plans may be arranged with the Study Abroad Coordinator and are flexible based on a student’s individual financial situation. Please note that all deposits/payments are non-refundable. Applications will be accepted up until March 1, 2012. Maximum 12 UNCP students.

 

Application- Contact the Study Abroad Coordinator, to apply for this program. E-mail: ip@uncp.edu, 910-775-4095, or stop by the Center for International Programs office (physical address: 902 Dogwood Lane).

 

Financial Aid- Students can use their financial Aid for the Summer to pay the costs of this study abroad. Contact the Financial Aid Office, to determine your financial aid eligibility.

Eligibility

All students at UNC Pembroke are eligible to participate in this Study Abroad, provided that they meet the following minimum requirements:

• Freshmen students-Completion of 30 hours and UNCP a Study Abroad Application/application fee.
• Transfer students-Completion of 15 credits in residence, minimum, at time of departure, and a completed UNCP Study Abroad Application/application fee.
• Approved program of study.
• Minimum overall 2.50 GPA at time of application.
• Conduct report. Applicants must be in Good Academic Standing and have no outstanding holds at UNCP.

Application and (All) Payment Deadline is:

March 1, 2012

Updated: Wednesday, November 16, 2011

 

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