Summer in Ecuador

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The Virginia Military Institute, in partnership with Simon Bolivar Spanish School, is pleased to present a summer four-week total language and cultural immersion program in Quito, Cuenca, and the Selva en Yarina Lodge in Ecuador.

Dates: June 28 – July 27, 2012

Cost: $3400 plus airfare (This fee is subject to Board of Visitor approval.)

Fees include tuition, insurance, accommodation with host families, and most meals. International airfare costs are not included.

Program Director

Major Scott Youngdahl, who has been a member of the VMI faculty since 2008. He holds a Doctorate in Spanish from the University North Carolina. Maj. Youngdahl has lived and studied in Spain and Mexico. This will be his second year as director of the Summer Program in Central and South America.

Room and Board

Students will be housed with families who speak little or no English. The home stay experience greatly enhances language acquisition and cultural understanding and is often a highlight of the program. The host family will provide three meals a day. Most residences are within easy walking distance of the school.

General Overview

The four-week program includes instruction in Spanish language and culture at the 200 and 300 levels, enhanced by numerous excursions and cultural events.

Academic Facilities

The host institution is the Simon Bolivar Spanish School. Since its foundation 15 years ago, Simon Bolivar Spanish School has been the leader in Spanish language instruction, being one of the oldest, largest and most successful Spanish schools in the region. The school is officially registered and authorized by the Ministry of Education. It is highly recommended by its students and many independent organizations such as the South American Explorers Club.