IFSA-Butler Latin America

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Eva Lauer Colby College

Major: Global Studies and Spanish

IFSA-Butler Program: AUP in Buenos Aires

Why did you choose Argentina for study abroad?I have a friend from Uruguay who told me that she recommended Buenos Aires of all of the cities in South America. She said that it was a big and exciting city full of culture and life, so I trusted her opinion. I am very glad that I did.

What is your favorite memory of Argentina? I helped teach English at a school in Buenos Aires once a week. My favorite memory of Buenos Aires was listening to the kids run around, laughing and playing during their snack time. I wasn’t allowed to speak to them in Spanish because I was there to help them with English, so I couldn’t laugh out loud at their jokes, but I was always laughing on the inside.

How did IFSA-Butler help enhance your experience?IFSA-Butler definitely helped to enhance my experience in Buenos Aires. The program coordinated my volunteer position at Natan Gesang, which as I said was one of my favorite memories. IFSA-Butler also coordinated my internship at LEA editorial. It was a very unique opportunity for me to be able to intern in an office abroad. Furthermore, IFSA-Butler coordinated countless excursions that helped me to experience Buenos Aires. IFSA-Butler allowed me to be able to go to the theater, to kayak in el tigre, to watch a polo match, and much more.

What were you scared of before going abroad?I was scared of breaking my normal routine. At a small school in Maine, each semester I got into a very similar and comfortable routine. I was nervous about breaking that routine and needing to make adjustments.

What advice do you have for future Argentina students?Do free things! There are so many cool things to do in Buenos Aires that don’t cost a penny. Also, try not to purchase too many gifts or souvenirs because those can add up, and instead try to bring back things that are free and can still serve as tokens of your time abroad but do not cost any money.

Stephanie Kaczynski University of St. Thomas

Major: Spanish, Communication/Journalism

IFSA-Butler Program: Universidad Nacional

Why did you choose Costa Rica for study abroad?I chose Costa Rica because I had heard they spoke a pretty pure version of Spanish–no heavy accents or difficult slang. I knew it was a relatively safe country, which made my parents more comfortable with the idea of me studying abroad. I knew people who had studied in Argentina, Guatemala, and Spain, and I wanted to create my own adventure, not follow in others’ footsteps.

What is your favorite memory of Costa Rica? I loved walking through the streets of Heredia on an absolutely perfect day with no worries in the world. I loved meeting Costa Ricans, and everyone I met was friendly and welcoming. I loved all of the colors and tropical plants and happiness that seemed to radiate from Costa Rica.

How did IFSA-Butler help enhance your experience?The information booklets IFSA-Butler sent out prior to the semester were extremely helpful. It was a lot of information, at times overwhelming, but really helped to answer all of my questions and help me feel prepared for the adventure.

What were you scared of before going abroad?I was nervous about a lot before going abroad: passing classes in a foreign language, getting along with my host family, making friends with other students studying abroad, etc. It is a leap of faith to get on an airplane alone, leaving behind everything familiar to you, and arrive in a foreign country where you know no one.

What was your favorite IFSA-Butler activity/event?My favorite IFSA-Butler event was absolutely the trip to save baby sea turtles. It is something I would never have thought of doing on my own and would not have known how to organize, but thanks to IFSA-Butler I got to do something incredible that I will never forget.

What advice do you have for future Costa Rica students?I advise students to go into it with a completely open mind. Yes, you will miss your family, friends, and home culture. Yes, you will be frustrated and uncomfortable at times. If you wanted a completely normal semester you didn’t need to study abroad. The beauty of the experience is completely immersing yourself in a wonderful, welcoming, amazing culture. Speak the language, meet the people, ask questions, be out of your comfort zone, and appreciate every second because it flies by.

S T U D E N T P R O F I L E S

translations at no additional cost. Having a U.S. university transcript will make your academic career smoother, because most U.S. universities treat the Butler University transcript as transfer credit.

6 . Do you organize cultural excursions and activities? Some study abroad programs advertise host university activities and events as their own. IFSA-Butler staff abroad organize special cultural events and excursions just for IFSA-Butler students. Of course, host university activities are also available to our students and are a bonus to the IFSA-Butler cultural experience.

7 . Are your excursions and activities included in the program fee? IFSA-Butler’s program fees include all of our great excursions and activities. With the exception of a few optional excursions, we never ask students to pay additional money for events.

8 . Do I have to arrange my own housing? IFSA-Butler’s program fees always include housing, and IFSA-Butler guarantees that each student has housing with a host family upon arrival abroad.

9 . Do your programs include medical insurance? All IFSA-Butler programs include comprehensive accident and illness insurance at no additional cost.

10. Will I have an on-site orientation? IFSA-Butler won’t leave you out in the cold. Each program begins with an orientation in the host country. Our resident directors and other on-site staff organize and conduct the orientations themselves.

When you’re in the process of choosing a study abroad provider, be sure to ask all the right questions!

1. What is the academic quality of your programs? IFSA-Butler’s affiliated universities are at the top of the rankings in their countries, and some are among the highest ranked universities in the world.

2. Are all your fees listed up front? IFSA-Butler doesn’t have any hidden charges. All of our fees, plus deposits and potential supplemental fees such as meal plan charges, are clearly outlined in our program fee pages on our website.

3. Do you have scholarships? IFSA-Butler has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships over the past five years.

4. Do you have full-time staff in each host country? Some study abroad programs just give busy professors extra money to provide an occasional event or to organize a brief orientation. IFSA-Butler has offices and employs full-time staff in each country where we have programs. Our staff provide everything from thorough orientations to academic guidance to

emergency assistance.

5. Will I receive a real university transcript? Every IFSA-Butler student receives a Butler University transcript with official grade and credit

10 Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K B E F O R E C H O O S I N G A S T U DY A B R O A D P R O G R A M

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Marin Axtell, Whitman College

M O R E C U LT U R E . L E S S S H O C K . 1

C O N T E N T S

I N T R O D U C T I O N

2 FInd Your Program 3 Map of Program Locations 4 IFSA-Butler Health and Safety Support 6 IFSA-Butler Scholarship Opportunities 7 What’s Included in Our Program Fees 10 IFSA-Butler’s Exploring Community & Culture Program

P R O G R A M S 14 ARGENTINA 20 Argentine Universities Program 24 Buenos Aires Intermediate 26 Mendoza Universities Program

28 C H I L E 32 Chilean Universities Program, Santiago 34 Chilean Universities Program, Valparaíso

36 COSTA RIC A 40 Universidad Nacional 42 Environmental Studies Concentration 43 Teacher Education in Costa Rica

44 C U B A 46 Universidad de La Habana

48 E C UA D O R 50 Rehearsing Change 52 M E X I CO 56 Mérida Universities Program

58 P E R U 62 Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

64 AVA I L A B L E S U B J E C T S

A D D I T I O N A L I N F O R M AT I O N 69 Eligibility and Applying 70 About IFSA-Butler 70 About Butler University 71 IFSA-Butler Administration, Field Directors and Program Advisors 72 National Advisors Council Executive Committee and IFSA-Butler Board of Trustees 72 Acknowledgements 74 Program Comparison Chart

Photos from our alumni appear throughout this book. Many thanks to our students for their contributions!

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www.ifsa-butler.org800-858-0229

M O R E C U LT U R E . L E S S S H O C K .

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Housing with a host family

One or more meals per day included

Mandatory meal plan in housing

Location: Medium-sized city

Location: Large city

Location: Metropolitan area

Internship available

Special scholarship opportunity

Summer program available

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Can I enroll in multiple universities?You can with IFSA-Butler! The following programs offer dynamic, flexible enrollment in two to five universities:

Argentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities ProgramChilean Universities Program, SantiagoChilean Universities Program, Valparaíso

Where can I do community-based learning, internships or volunteer work?

CO M M U N I T Y - B A S E D L E A R N I N G Teacher Education in Costa Rica Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

I N T E R N S H I P SChilean Universities Program, Valparaíso

V O L U N T E E R O P P O R T U N I T I E SOur Latin America programs feature volunteer or community-based learning opportunities. See individual program pages for details.

Do you have a program for my level of Spanish?We have a program for every level of Spanish, even for students who haven’t studied Spanish at all! The list below can help you find a program that matches your level.

0 - 2 S E M E S T E R S O F CO L L E G E - L E V E L S PA N I S H : Medical Spanish and Public Health in the Yucatán**

2 - 3 S E M E S T E R S O F CO L L E G E - L E V E L S PA N I S H : Buenos Aires Intermediate

3 S E M E S T E R S O F CO L L E G E - L E V E L S PA N I S H : Language and Cultural Studies in the Yucatán **

4 S E M E S T E R S O F CO L L E G E - L E V E L S PA N I S H : Argentine Universities Program (Intensive Spanish concentration)Community Building and Sustainable Development in Peru **Mendoza Universities ProgramSummer Language and Culture at Universidad de Buenos Aires **Mérida Universities ProgramRehearsing ChangeUniversidad Nacional

** Indicates a summer program. See our website or summer catalog for more details.

5 S E M E S T E R S O F CO L L E G E - L E V E L S PA N I S H : Argentine Universities ProgramChilean Universities Program, SantiagoChilean Universities Program, ValparaísoPontificia Universidad Católica del PerúUniversidad de La Habana

Want to compare even more? See our program comparison chart on page 74.

F I N D Y O U R P R O G R A M

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Hannah Dresdner, University of Denver


Available Areas of Study

Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsEngineeringFine ArtsHealth SciencesPhysical SciencesSocial Sciences

Top Ranked SubjectsAnthropologyClassicsMusic StudiesPublic PolicyStudio ArtsZoology

See page 64 for a full list of available subjects

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PROGR AM COURSES (CONTINUED)

Art and Politics in Contemporary Argentina This course will allow students to ponder the relationship between different trends in Argentine plastic arts and political life. The course will study the existing symbolic interchange between the Argentine artistic schools and the social world, paying special attention to the political character of the works of art, observed from a broad perspective. The history of Argentine art, displayed from the aesthetical vanguards to the manifestations of contemporary art, establish a permanent conversation with politics and with power through dissimilar and distinguishable expressions.

Latin American and Argentine Literature The main focus of this course is to reflect on literary construc-tion methods used by Argentine authors to make possible the perception of complexity of the cultural spaces that originate in Latin American culture. Texts selected for this course represent a wide variety of authors from different cultural nationalities such as Horacio Quiroga, Rodolfo Walsh, Jorge Luis Borges and Carlos Fuentes.

Contemporary Argentina History: State and Society Throughout the 20th century, Argentines experienced many economic, political and social transitions, forming the Argentina we know today. This class examines these various transitions from a uniquely Argentine perspective and analyze how Argentina’s concept of state and society interacts with and impacts the country’s modern development.

Students take the remainder of their course load at Universidad Católica Argentina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Universidad del Salvador and/or Universidad Torcuato Di Tella.


HAVANA

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Heredia

ValparaísoViña del Mar

SANTIAGO

BUENOS AIRES

Mendoza

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I F S A - B U T L E R P R O G R A M L O C A T I O N S

I chose Costa Rica because I wanted to do something different. At my university, most people who study abroad in Latin America choose Buenos Aires or Santiago, but I wanted to go a little more off the grid. Also, Costa Rica had great outdoor adventure opportunities which I took full advantage of. –Jason Olin, George Washington University

Argentina has fascinated me since I took a class on the sociology surround-ing their popular music. I knew they have an interesting literary culture to which I wanted to be exposed; a book-store on every corner and a climate in which people love to read and discuss literature. –Natalie DeRosa, Temple University

My Spanish adviser had talked with me and told me that Santiago would be the perfect place to go if I really wanted to focus on improving my Spanish and would be a location where I would get a great opportunity to really immerse myself in another culture and language.

–Leah Weprich, DePauw University

Peru looked like an amazing place for travel and I was really excited about the immersion and volunteer aspects of the IFSA-Butler program!

–Amelia Conrad, Tulane University

IFSA-BUTLER PERSONALIZED CONSULTATIONS

• Health and Wellness staff monitor safety and security issues for all program locations, as well as discuss any program safety/security concerns with students, parents and advisors

• Program Advisors are specialists on country and program specific details and are available to answer any questions

• Director for Safety and Security oversees safety and security of specific program locations

IFSA-BUTLER STUDENT ORIENTATION

• Information sessions about health, wellness, safety and security, with information detailed in a Student Handbook provided to every student

• Some sessions led by local experts and practitioners in the field – local police, U.S. embassy officials, doctors, mental health professionals, etc.

• What to do, where to go, who to call, in case of an emergency

• 24/7 emergency contact information for resident staff and emergency services

HEALTH AND SAFET Y BEST PR AC TICES

• IFSA-Butler is regarded as a leader in crisis management in study abroad

• IFSA-Butler adheres to guidelines and best practices in the field of international education as established by NAFSA and the Forum on Education Abroad

• Critical Incident Response Plans and procedures in place for all resident offices

• Extensive communication plan in place to keep students, parents and home universities informed in an emergency situation

I F S A - B U T L E R H E A LT H A N D S A F E T Y S U P P O R T


DEDIC ATED AND EXPERIENCED RESIDENT STAFF • Experienced, full time resident staff and program

office in every country

• Resident staff trained in student affairs and emergency response

• Staff member available to assist 24-7 in emergency situations

• Staff trained to help students transition to life in Latin America and are available to assist with issues ranging from academics, culture shock and housing to finding a local doctor, filling a prescription and assisting in emergencies, including helping with Spanish translation

24/7 WORLDWIDE EMERGENC Y RESPONSE

• Over 25 years of experience in emergency and crisis response

• Emergency phone number where both resident and U.S. staff can be reached after hours in an emergency situation

• Crisis Management Team headquartered in the U.S. coordinates with resident staff in emergency situations

• Crisis response plans specifically tailored for each program location

• Emergency assistance provider (through program insurance) available to assist worldwide, even when traveling outside of host country

COMPREHENSIVE MEDIC AL, SECURIT Y AND EMERGENC Y ASSISTANCE INSUR ANCE PLAN

• Comprehensive medical coverage while outside the US, with some preexisting condition coverage

• Worldwide hospital and health care referral (doctors, therapists, specialists)

• Emergency prescription replacement

• 24-hour nurse assistance

• 24-hour emergency travel arrangements

• View full plan details on our website, www.ifsa-butler.org

IFSA-Butler is a leader in study abroad health and safety best practices. We’re prepared to help our students through weather emergencies, politicalunrest, personal issues and any other unplannedproblems that can upset a study abroad experience.



I F S A - B U T L E R S C H O L A R S H I P O P P O R T U N I T I E S

IFSA-Butler believes that study abroad should be within the reach of every student, so we offer a wide range of scholarships and financing services. Any applicant to an IFSA-Butler program who meets basic elibility requirements is welcome to apply for the opportunities below.

USE YOUR FINANCIAL AID TO STUDY ABROAD!

Many students don’t realize that financial aid can help pay for study abroad. Pell Grants, Stafford Loans and PLUS loans can apply to your IFSA-Butler program.

College grants and scholarships, Perkins Loans, state grants and loans, and 529 plans may also be used for study abroad, but you’ll need to ask your home campus financial aid office about its policies for transferring these types of aid.

GENERAL SCHOLARSHIPS

Awards are $1,500 for semester programs and $2,500 for full year programs and may be used for any IFSA-Butler program.

FIRST GENERATION SCHOLARSHIP

This scholarship valued at $2,500 is for first generation college student and is used to reimburse certain up-front expenses for study abroad, including airfare, visa costs and passport fees. The scholarship for some recipients may include a $500 housing scholarship.

FILL THE GAP

Fill the GAP allows students to save in advance for any IFSA-Butler program and a matching grant up to $1,000.

WORK-TO-STUDY GRANTS

Build your resume and help pay for study abroad at the same time! Work-to-Study grants allow students to work on special projects before or during their study abroad experience. IFSA-Butler pays $250 to $1,000 for completed projects. Positions are typically available in marketing and communications, website development or in clerical projects.

UPFRONT PROGRAM

UpFront allows students to put airfare and their program deposit on their IFSA-Butler student account in order minimize up-front costs.


LATIN AMERICA SCHOLARSHIPS Any IFSA-Butler Costa Rica program: $1,000 for semester or year students

Anthony Lobdell Memorial Scholarship:$3,500 for semester or full year students participating in any Latin America program

Nancy Cushing-Daniels Memorial Scholarship:Awards in the amount of $5,000 for a Spanish major with outstanding Spanish skills and a GPA of 3.3 or above


W H A T ’ S I N C L U D E D I N O U R P R O G R A M F E E S


AC A D E M I C S

• Tuition• Full academic advising and course selection/

approval assistance• Review of credit load abroad• Tutors for help with Spanish and specific subject

areas• Butler University transcript for easy credit transfer• Grade and credit query assistance• Permanent academic record maintenance

H O U S I N G A N D M E A L S

• Guaranteed prearranged housing with a carefully selected host family

• IFSA-Butler houses only one student per family for maximum cultural integration

• All Latin America programs include at least one meal per day

P R E D E PA R T U R E S U P P O R T S E R V I C E S

• U.S.-based program, academic and finance staff available on a daily basis

• Assistance finding the perfect program for you• Personalized advising and assistance from your

IFSA-Butler program advisor, who is also fluent in Spanish

• Predeparture support includes a welcome packet, Preparing to Study Abroad booklet, Money Matters booklet, email reminders and more

• Parental support, including our U.S.-based student and parent support services manager, and a parent welcome packet

• Assistance in accommodating students with disabilities

• Assistance with financial aid transfers• Travel and student visa assistance• Optional group flight arrangements for most

programs

SERVICES ABROAD

• Full-time IFSA-Butler staff in each country for local support and assistance

• IFSA-Butler orientation program (includes transportation, accommodation, activities, student handbook, welcome materials and most meals)

• Academic tutors for extra support• Newsletter updates throughout each semester• Traditional meal hosted by our local staff• 24/7 emergency assistance• Help with translation and interpretation in the

event of an emergency

E XC U R S I O N S A N D AC T I V I T I E S (Included in the program fee! See each country section or our website for specifics)

• Visits to historic and cultural sites• Weekend trips• Day trips• Academically and culturally relevant activities• “Off the beaten path” activities that most students

wouldn’t be able to do on their own

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Alicia Carter, University of Denver


Photo by IFSA-Butler student Ben Schwed, Macalester College


H E A LT H S E R V I C E S A N D E M E R G E N C Y A S S I S TA N C E

• Comprehensive medical and emergency assistance plan• 24-hour emergency assis-

tance and support from on-site IFSA-Butler staff

• Access to local medical facilities, specialists and mental health providers

• Timely communication with students, parents and home universities in the event of an emergency abroad

F I N A N C E S

• IFSA-Butler fees are set and do not change because of currency fluctuations

• IFSA-Butler awards scholarships from $500 to $5,000

• Our First Generation Scholars Program gives scholarship funds and special assistance to first generation college students

• Fill the GAP allows students to begin saving in advance for study abroad, with matching funds up to $1,000

• Monthly payment plan available• IFSA-Butler accepts transfers of home institution

grants, scholarships and federal financial aid



HOST FAMILIES

IFSA-Butler places students with carefully selected host families throughout their time in Latin America. We house only one student per family for maximum language and cultural integration.

HOST UNIVERSIT Y INTEGR ATION

IFSA-Butler students in Latin America typically enroll in classes alongside degree students. C&C helps participants process their integrated experience and compare the academic and cultural differences with their U.S. degree program.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

C&C helps students give back to their host community by arranging meaningful volunteer opportunities. Activities are available for a wide variety of interests and at all types of organizations.

While abroad, do you want to do things that local people do? Go where they go? See your new culture and environment through their eyes? How about learning intercultural skills employers are looking for?

C&C will help you make an unfamiliar place more familiar. As you engage with and learn from local communities and cultures around you, your host city will be transformed before your eyes into a great experimental classroom that you will never forget.

And get ready to update that resume and excel in future job interviews! The skills, resources, knowledge and understanding you will develop in C&C are just what employers are looking for.

Some of IFSA-Butler’s C&C features for Latin America include:

E X P L O R I N G C O M M U N I T Y & C U LT U R E P R O G R A M ( C & C )


INTERNSHIPS

Internships are an invaluable way to engage in your host community, gain hands-on work experience and build your resume. Internships are available in our Valparaíso, Chile program.

CULTUR AL EXCURSIONS AND DISCUSSIONS

C&C includes excursions and discussions to help participants understand and appreciate cultural differences. Our unique community engagement opportunities range from lectures and field excursions to visits to indigenous communities.

DIREC TED RESEARCH

Many of our Latin America programs have a directed research component, which gives students the opportunity to combine a rich academic experience with meaningful community interactions.

C AMPUS ENGAGEMENT

IFSA-Butler’s university-based programs allow students access to campus sports, clubs, organizations and social events. C&C students are able to truly engage with host university students and to live an authentic university experience in Latin America.

BENEFITS OF C&C:

• No additional cost to students!

• C&C provides students with a network of support that starts even before departure

• C&C allows students to connect in meaningful ways with fellow participants on the program as they work together to process their cultural experiences abroad

• C&C is a great resume builder and a concrete way to show cultural competency

Through my study abroad experience, I learned a whole new meaning behind friendship, independence and maturity. Most importantly, I have learned about the world.–Olena Javorska, Northwestern University

CO N N E C T W I T H U S

Use #ifsabutler while you’re abroad to let us know what you’re up to!

TWITTER CHATSWe run regular Twitter chats on topics ranging from predeparture preparations to career advice and more. Connect with us on Twitter (@ifsabutler) for details!

L E T U S F E A T U R E Y O U !

Our students around the world are living unforgettable adventures, and we want to share them with the world. Connect with us on your favorite platform and you could be the next face of the IFSA-Butler experience!


PHOTO CONTESTWe want to see your best shots from your semester abroad. Prizes available in multiple categories, including Amazon gift cards for the top photos. Contest details are available on our website at http://www.ifsa-butler.org/for-alumni/alumni-photo-contest.html VIDEO CONTESTGet your GoPros, video cameras and smartphones ready! Awesome prizes are up for grabs each semester for the student videos that best capture the IFSA-Butler experience. Contest details are available on our website at http://www.ifsa-butler.org/ for-alumni/alumni-video-contest.html #IFSABUTLER CHALLENGEEach month, we will be selecting our favorite photo submitted to the #IFSAButler hashtag and sending the winner a prize pack full of IFSA-Butler gear. Each of the monthly winners will also be entered into a drawing for a $150 Amazon gift card at the end of the year.


Photo by IFSA-Butler student Meghan Webb, Colorado College

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Mallory Combs, DePauw University

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Danielle McLaughlin,

University of North Carolina

Mendoza Universities Program

A R G E N T I N A

M E N D O Z ALocated in the heart of Argentina’s wine country, Mendoza is a beautiful, green city with a bustling downtown and tranquil, well-kept neighborhoods. The city offers a lively atmosphere with great dining and entertainment possibilities, and it’s also a great destination for lovers of the outdoors. Skiing, mountain climbing and mountain biking are just a few of the many adventure options available thanks to Mendoza’s location at the foot of the Andes Mountains.

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Scan with a smart phone for more info


Universidad Católica Argentina B U E N O S A I R E S

Universidad de Buenos Aires

Universidad del Salvador

Universidad Torcuato Di Tella

Parque de la

Ciudad

Plaza de Mayo

Obelisco deBuenos Aires

UBA Facultad de Filasofía y Letras

Reserva Ecológica

Casa de Gobierno

Estación RetiroRecoleta Cemetery

Rio de la Plata

UBA Facultad de Ciencias Sociales

IFSA-Butler Office

Zoológico de Buenos AiresMuseo Evita

Japanese Gardens

B U E N O S A I R E SHome to countless cultural and sporting attractions, Buenos Aires is one of the most cosmopolitan societies in the world, with a distinctly European air. Known as the “Paris of the Americas” for its sophistication and culture, the city offers unparalleled opportunities to enjoy theatre, music, films, sports and museums. Although Buenos Aires is expansive, the city’s reliable and inexpensive local transportation make getting around a breeze.



IFSA-Butler has Facebook groups for every country where we have programs. Connect with other students who are also going to Argentina!

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Lindsay Koller, University of Pennsylvania

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Danielle McLaughlin, University of North Carolina

Linnea Cederberg University of Pennsylvania

Major: International Studies and Business

IFSA-Butler Program: Argentine Universities Program

Why did you choose Argentina for study abroad? I chose Argentina because I wanted a Spanish Immersion program that didn’t offer Europe as an “escape option” to find English speakers and English environments. I figured that people studying abroad in Argentina would be more invested in the local culture and language than in Europe. I wanted to experience a completely new area of the world and culture and be challenged by simple things such as taking a public bus or ordering a coffee at a cafe.

What is your favorite memory from Argentina? My favorite memory of my experience encompasses every dinnertime that I spent with my host family. I was lucky enough to have four host brothers around my age and we would spend countless nights eating pizza, watching soc-cer, and talking politics together.

What were you scared of before going abroad? I was scared that my experience would not meet my expectations of the country. I had many Argentine friends from my work tell me about their country and culture and I was afraid it wouldn’t be the same. However, my IFSA-Butler orientation and classes helped me confirm that the experience was well beyond my expectations.

What was your favorite IFSA-Butler activity? I really enjoyed the birthday dinner that Mario, the pro-gram director, planned every month. If it was your birthday month, he would treat you to a nice dinner and make you feel “celebrated.”

What advice do you have for future Argentina students?Don’t be afraid to feel uncomfortable or awkward. In 10 minutes or less, the awkwardness will be resolved or just not there anymore. Also, in Argentina, everything is cheap, so living on a budget was not too difficult. An average student will just have to find a happy medium between splurging on restaurant nights and buying groceries for homemade lunches.

S T U D E N T P R O F I L E


IFSA-Butler gave us a list of activities happening in Mendoza every week, which was cool because it gave me the idea to check out some cultural events I might not have known about otherwise.–Yona Yurwit, Soka University of America

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Mary Kate Long, Smith College

WELCOME TO OUR PROGRAMS IN ARGENTINA!

Our country offers one of the most unique cultures

in South America, one that melds sophisticated

European influences with Argentine passion.

Countless cultural attractions will be available to

you here, as will great travel opportunities. And

don’t forget that no matter what your interests,

our fully staffed offices will be here to help support

you in your academic, cultural and personal quests

for excellence. Whether you decide to study in

bustling Buenos Aires or choose to live in the

heart of our beautiful wine country by selecting

Mendoza as your adopted home, you will find that

Argentina is more exciting than you ever imagined.

Sincerely,

Mario Cantarini, Senior Resident Director

and all the IFSA-Butler staff in Argentina


A R G E N T I N A E XC U R S I O N S , AC T I V I T I E S A N D E V E N T S

Buenos Aires

Cultural events• Music and theatre productions• Rugby and soccer matches• Urban biking and canoe excursion• Tango: crash course for beginners• Argentine film screenings

Excursions• Three-day excursion to a destination such as Colonia,

Uruguay; Montevideo, Uruguay; or Rosario, Argentina

Other activities• Special occasion and special interest meals throughout

the year• Thanksgiving celebration (semester 2)• Activities organized by program classes or concentration

(AUP students only)• Farewell meal

Mendoza

Cultural events• Argentine cooking class• City of Mendoza guided tour• Annual wine harvest festival (semester 1)• Halloween festivities (semester 2)

Excursions• Two-day trip to Buenos Aires: Includes sightseeing and

social events• Two-day trip to San Rafael: Includes trekking and hiking

in the mountains

Additional events available at students’ expense• Art in Mendoza tour• San Rafael events: Rafting, zipline and more

Other activities• Farewell meal

Unless otherwise noted, all excursions, activities and events are included in the IFSA-Butler program fee


Photo by IFSA-Butler student Abbey Drake, Trinity University

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Sohee Cha, University of Pennsylvania

My favorite IFSA-Butler event was our trip to Uruguay. It was nice to have that trip entirely planned for us, and the places that we got to see were absolutely beautiful. –Eva Lauer, Colby College

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Cross-enroll in up to four prestigious Buenos Aires universities: Universidad Católica Argentina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Universidad del Salvador and Universidad Torcuato Di Tella

• Academic concentrations expose students to experts in their respective fields

• All university classes taught in Spanish and integrated with degree-seeking students

• IFSA-Butler program courses enrich the university experience

• Each academic concentration has its own on-site coordinator and specialized tutors trained to help with language and academic questions

• Students with four semesters of Spanish may study on the Intensive Spanish concentration

• Many volunteer opportunities available

ARGENTINE UNIVERSITIES PROGRAM

A R G E N T I N A

HOUSINGHousing is with a carefully selected host family. The program fee includes two meals per day Sunday through Friday and one meal on Saturday. IFSA-Butler houses only one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.

GENERAL PROGRAMMost of the course load for the General Program comes from integrated courses at one or more of the four AUP universities. General Program students also enroll in a special IFSA-Butler program course, Advanced Spanish and Argentine Culture, to complement the direct-enroll experience. Along with the mandatory Advanced Spanish class, you can choose to enroll in an additional program course.

PROGR AM COURSES (ALL TAUGHT IN SPANISH)

Advanced Spanish and Argentine Culture (required) This class is designed to build on previous Spanish coursework and enrich knowledge of the Spanish language in four areas: oral comprehension, oral expression, written expression and reading comprehension. Based in a cultural context, students also learn about Argentina’s diverse culture through readings, film, music and hands-on experience with the Spanish language.

Argentine Foreign Policy Argentina’s foreign policy has been influenced by many factors since colonial times. This course takes an in-depth look at how Argentina has responded to issues such as the Great Depression, Cold War, globalization, human rights and the influence of world superpowers such as the United States.

Location: Buenos AiresCity population: 10 millionRequired GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 4 or 5 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: April 1 Semester 2 (July-Dec) Academic year (July-July) November 1 Semester 1 (Feb-July) Calendar year (Feb-Dec)

A summer program is also available. See our website or summer catalog for details.


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Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsFine ArtsSocial Sciences

Popular SubjectsBusinessEconomicsFilm StudiesJournalismLatin American StudiesMathematicsMedia StudiesPolitical SciencePsychology


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Argentine and Latin American Literature The main focus of this course is to reflect on literary construction methods used by Argentine authors to make possible the perception of complexity of the cultural spaces that originate in Latin American culture. Texts selected for this course represent a wide variety of authors from different cultural nationalities such as Horacio Quiroga, Rodolfo Walsh, Jorge Luis Borges and Carlos Fuentes.


Intensive Advanced Spanish This course is designed specifically for students participating in the Intensive Spanish concentration. The course comprises three stages: a first stage of orientation, a second stage consisting of an intensive grammar workshop and a third maintenance stage. The course aims to make the most of the surrounding Spanish-speaking environment by encouraging students to interact with native speakers and offering insight into different aspects of the Argentine cultural, social and political reality. Students will be encouraged to put into practice four macro skills: speaking, listening, writing and reading.



A R G E N T I N A


ARGENTINE UNIVERSITIES PROGRAM (CONTINUED)

PROGR AM CONCENTR ATIONS

Directed Research ConcentrationStudents may replace one or two integrated university courses in the General Program with a 6-credit Directed Research Project. Students focus on the topic of their choice. The Fundación Simón Rodriguez appoints a research coordinator and a committee of field experts to oversee each student’s academic progress and research paper.

Human Rights ConcentrationStudents enroll in both university and IFSA-Butler program courses while completing a human rights-related research project and field experience with a local NGO. Concentration coursework includes a Human Rights in Argentina and Latin America course, one to two university courses and a Methodology of Research seminar.

Gender, Diversity and Minority Studies ConcentrationStudents participate in both integrated and specialized program courses along with research and field experience. Concentration coursework includes a Diversity, Minorities and Gender Studies course, one to two university courses, a research seminar and field experience.

Intensive Spanish ConcentrationThis concentration is designed for students who have taken four semesters of college-level Spanish. The support provided in this concentration allows students some of the flexibility of the Argentine Universities Program general concentration, but provides additional support to maximize students’ academic success.

Literature ConcentrationHosted at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella, this concentration involves creative writing, journalism, literary translation and publishing. It includes a Literary Studies Methodology seminar, a field work option and a writing workshop option. Students must have a major or minor in literary studies, literature, Spanish, Latin American studies or journalism, or have a special interest in these subjects. Literature Concentration students also will have a tutor, an advanced Spanish class and classes at any of the four AUP universities.

IFSA-Butler offers scholarships starting at $1,000. Any applicant to our programs is eligible to apply.

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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESVolunteer opportunities give students the chance to become involved in charities, development work and social justice activities. Past placements have included work with:

• Democracia Representativa, an organization seeking to strengthen representative democracy in Argentina.

• ADEPRA, an organization that rescues stray animals.

• Pilotos Solidarios, an organization that provides general and medical assistance to isolated rural communities.

• Dando a Luz, an organization that promotes reproductive rights.

• Cicerones, which promotes the beauty and cultural diversity of Buenos Aires.

• AMARTYA, a group that advocates social responsibility.

• Riesgo Cero, an organization created to provide sexual and reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention information.

• Sociedad de Integración Gay Lésbica Argentina, an organization that works to promote the social integration of the GLBT community.

• CARE, an organization that promotes equal access to communication and information technology.

• Proyectarte, which seeks to promote and spread art created by young Argentine artists.

• Campus Travel, a travel agency for student travelers.

Theatre ConcentrationStudents are involved in all aspects of putting on a theatrical production, including casting, rehearsals, costumes, directing, scene construction, etc. The theatre concentration includes a program course titled El Teatro Hoy, an advanced Spanish class and a selection of integrated courses at Universidad del Salvador. The concentration is available during the fall (semester 2) only.

Cinema ConcentrationThis highly specialized concentration is for students interested in the visual arts. Through a film-focused program course and integrated university courses at the famous Fundación Universidad del Cine, students explore the booming Argentine film industry and its cultural impact in Argentina and beyond. Students also create a short film as part of the concentration. Concentration coursework includes: Advanced Spanish and Argentine Culture, Introduction to the Practice and Analysis of Argentine Film, two university courses at the Fundación Universidad del Cine or one university course at one of the AUP universities.

Linguistics and TranslationThis program option offers specially designed courses focus on Spanish language, translation and linguistics. Students also take an elective at one of three universities in Buenos Aires.

Our staff in Argentina strive to find excursions and events that are both academically relevant and culturally enriching. They also work hard to take students to places that they wouldn’t be able to see on their own.

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Ali Jawetz, University of Virginia

BUENOS AIRES INTERMEDIATE

A R G E N T I N A

Location: Buenos AiresCity population: 10 millionRequired GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 2-3 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: April 1 Semester 2 (July-Dec) November 1 Semester 1 (Feb-July)


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HOUSINGHousing is with a carefully selected host family. The IFSA-Butler program fee includes two meals per day Sunday through Friday and one meal on Saturday. IFSA-Butler houses only one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.

USAL CAMPUS AMENITIES• Program staff and office on campus• Computer labs, classrooms and libraries• Easy access to public transportation

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• An intermediate Spanish language program perfect for students with two or three semesters of university-level Spanish

• Located in Buenos Aires, the vibrant cultural capital of South America

• Hosted by Universidad del Salvador (USAL)

• All courses taught in Spanish by university faculty

• Combination of intermediate Spanish courses and university courses in USAL’s Cultural Immersion Program

• Program excursions and activities focus on the art, culture, lifestyle and sports that make Buenos Aires one of the world’s most exciting cities

• Volunteer opportunities available in the local community

• Tutors help students with academic needs and Spanish language skills

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESVolunteer opportunities give students the chance to become involved in charities, development work and social justice activities. Past placements have included work with:

• Democracia Representativa, an organization seeking to strengthen representative democracy in Argentina.

• Pilotos Solidarios, an organization that provides general and medical assistance to isolated rural communities.

• Sociedad de Integración Gay Lésbica Argentina, an organization that works to promote the social integration of the GLBT community.

• LEER, which teaches literacy to children.

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Sierra Williams, University of Alaska


Intensive Intermediate Spanish (required)This course helps with comprehension, oral communication, reading comprehension and written expression in Spanish.

Contemporary Latin American Language and Culture (required)Introduces Latin American cultural topics, along with the development of speaking, hearing, reading and writing in Spanish. The topics covered in this course are: indigenous peoples, politics, ecology and tourism, gastronomy and Latin American music. Also covered are grammar and lexicon.

Social Inclusion in the Contemporary SituationThis class uses conceptual tools to analyze Argentina’s current social reality and compare it with the region and the world. The course includes a practicum with different non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The practicum concludes with a reflective essay about the experience.

Latin American Reality Through its Protagonists: Political Leadership This course examines Latin America’s heterogeneous reality, examines a common identity of cultural ties that define a regional profile, generates a valued attitude that contemplates diversity, and identifies these situations in relation to the region with the world.

Cultural and Social Representations in Argentine HistoryThis class covers social representations throughout Argentine history. Students develop a historical journey in conjunction with the following: indigenous peoples; European tradition, religion and popular devotions; the tango; European vision and exoticism; Peronism; Argentine literature and more.

Cinematographic TheoryStudents analyze cinematography from an artistic and communicative view to obtain basic theoretical tools of cinematography. The course will expound on the history of film in relation to events that permitted the rise of this medium and the development of subsequent cinematographic language.

Contemporary World EconomyThis course offers formation of the contemporary world economic order through the analysis of principal macroeconomic concepts, themes and problems.

Popular Sectors in 19th and 20th C. Argentine HistoryLo popular, a controversial term, is analyzed from the beginning of the 19th century to the emergence of Peronism.

Immersion in the Local Culture through its Cultural OrganizationsStudents will reach an understanding of Argentine identity through a program that combines theoretical presentations with guided visits to cultural attractions.

Seminar: Contemporary Argentine Theater WorkshopStudents learn techniques and skills for oral expression, focusing on the ability to improvise, play, act and analyze theater scenes and contemporary Argentine stories.

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Cara Pratt, Drake University

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The IFSA-Butler staff in Argentina are wonderful people. They are very helpful, kind and cool! I enjoyed the weekend activities that IFSA-Butler provided. We could sign up to go to fantastic, top-notch concerts and plays. Sometimes we would go to dinner or ice cream afterwards.

When I went traveling alone in Peru for the two months in between my semesters in Buenos Aires, IFSA-Butler was an enormous help. I got sick with a stomach infection, and IFSA-Butler helped me find a reputable doctor in Lima, and slowly but surely my health improved.–Simone Rogers, Sarah Lawrence College

MENDOZA UNIVERSITIES PROGRAM

A R G E N T I N A

Location: MendozaCity population: 1 millionRequired GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 4 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent



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HOUSINGIFSA-Butler arranges housing with a carefully selected host family. The program fee includes three meals per day. IFSA-Butler houses only one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.

UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL DE CUYO CAMPUS AMENITIES• A variety of student clubs, outdoor activities

and sports teams• Cafeteria, health center, libraries and athletic

facilities• A self-contained campus located at the edge

of the beautiful San Martín Park

UNIVERSIDAD DE CONGRESO CAMPUS AMENITIES• A private university with outstanding

academic facilities• Located in picturesque downtown Mendoza• Special activities for international students• Option to take one course at the Instituto

Frédéric Chopin, which offers music and dance instruction

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Excellent academics in a beautiful, small-city environment

• Choose from a wide variety of subjects at two excellent universities

• Study at Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, a top public university in Argentina, and at Universidad de Congreso, a private university in downtown Mendoza

• Universidad Nacional de Cuyo has one of the most widely recognized fine and applied arts programs in South America

• Many opportunities for qualified students to participate in musical activities

• IFSA-Butler program courses enhance the experience through additional language immersion and a broader cultural context

• Orientation begins with a two-day stay in Buenos Aires

The IFSA-Butler staff in Mendoza created a sense of fun and enthusiastic camaraderie within the program and was an invaluable source of information throughout my time abroad.–Hannah Wright, Bowdoin College


Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsFine ArtsNatural SciencesSocial Sciences

Popular SubjectsAnthropologyArchitectureBiotechnologyBusinessCommunicationsEconomicsEngineeringHistoryLiteraturePolitical ScienceSociologyStudio Art


VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESIFSA-Butler staff in Mendoza have developed a program that allows students to get involved in well-known organizations and NGOs. The aim of the project is to give students a positive, responsible and active presence in Mendocinean society. Areas in which students can participate include health, childhood, family and handicrafts. Also available are opportunities to take part in different food, clothing and fundraising campaigns to help at-risk populations.

PROGR AM COURSES (TAUGHT IN SPANISH)

Advanced Spanish and Argentine Culture (required) Through studying Argentine culture with a special focus on Mendoza, this intensive Spanish course expands students’ Spanish language abilities, not only in the university classroom but also in day-to-day situations.

Regional Development This optional course emphasizes the study of development issues in the Cuyo region and is divided into two parts. The first part covers development theories, society and cultural perspectives of development. For the second part of the course, students focus on one of the four following topics: Argentine and regional economy, development and gender, development and childhood, or development and human rights.

Students take the remainder of their courses at Universidad Nacional de Cuyo and/or Universidad de Congreso.

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Photo by IFSA-Butler student Anna Johnson, University of Denver

ValparaísoViña del MarChilean Universities Program, Valparaíso

SANTIAGOChilean Universities Program, Santiago

BRAZILBOLIVIA

URUGUAY

PARAGUAY

ARGENTINA

SouthPacificOcean

SouthAtlanticOcean

PERU


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C H I L E

S A N T I AG OSantiago is the economic, political and cultural heart of Chile and therefore an ideal location for a study abroad experience. The city enjoys modern infrastructure, diverse architecture, green parks and a delightful Mediterranean climate. Its central location provides opportunities for travel throughout

Chile and Latin America, while its cultural and entertainment options will make

you want to stay in the city.

VA L PA R A Í S O A N D V I Ñ A D E L M A RValparaíso, Chile’s second-largest city, enjoys an ideal location between the mountains and the sea. Known for its romantic elegance of cobbled streets and Victorian houses, the city’s natural amphitheatre includes 41 hills with spectacular ocean views. Valparaíso’s Historic Quarter, a UNESCO recognized World Heritage site, and its vibrant life as the country’s “Cultural Capital” add to its charm. Viña del Mar is Chile’s premier coastal resort and boasts beautiful beaches and stunning coastline, lavish gardens, subtropical atmosphere, cinemas and dance clubs.

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Sara Baygents Sweet Briar College

Major: Spanish

IFSA-Butler Program: Chilean Universities Program, Santiago

Why did you choose Chile for study abroad?I had been to Chile before and had always wanted to go back.

What is your favorite memory of Chile?My favorite memory of Chile was during the World Cup, after the Chilean team won their match against Australia. I’d watched it with some Chileans I hadn’t met before, but by the end, we were all great friends. After the game, we went to the main plaza with what felt like the whole city, where everyone was cheering and throwing confetti. I hadn’t fully understood until then just how important soccer was to their culture.

How did IFSA-Butler help enhance your experience?IFSA-Butler provided a lot of information and guidance that I would not have otherwise had, especially when it came to selecting and registering for classes. I had syllabi before my classes started in order to determine if they would fulfill my home university’s requirements and I had a good idea of what to expect from each one.

What were you scared of before going abroad?I was scared that I would never feel like I’d become part of a community and that I would only ever talk to the other students from the U.S. This did turn out to be a challenge for me, but I found plenty of ways to get involved and get to know Chileans.

What is your favorite IFSA-Butler activity?My favorite IFSA-Butler activity was when we went to southern Chile. During the four days we spent there, we went hiking, visited traditional Mapuche homes, toured cities and went to hot springs, among other things. This question was very hard to answer because I liked all of the activities!

What advice do you have for future Chile students?Use IFSA-Butler for absolutely anything you need. They are there to help you, and going through them will take a lot of the confusion out of the process. I also recommend introducing yourself to your professors and explaining your situation. Most will not only make sure you are able to understand everything, but also take an extra interest in you.



In one of my first classes I had to dance the national dance (cueca) in front of my class. Obviously my face turned bright red, but at the end of it I felt more confident and I made some Chilean friends who appreciated my effort.–Imogen Anne Pursch, Macalester College

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Meghan Webb, Colorado College


STUDYING IN CHILE WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE

forever, widening your vision of the world and

your home country at the same time. Chile is

an ideal location for foreign study, with a good

balance between academics and life experience.

In both Santiago and Valparaíso, you will have the

chance to study at the best universities in Chile and

to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture outside

the classroom. Chile is a country with breathtaking

landscapes and warm people that begs to be

explored. Come to Chile!

¡Te esperamos!

Sincerely,

Mark Sinclair, Resident Director, Valparaíso

Isabel Yévenes, Resident Director, Santiago

and all the IFSA-Butler staff in Chile

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Photo by IFSA-Butler student Mallory Combs, Depauw University

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Colleen Daszkiewicz, College of William and Mary

My favorite memory abroad was getting to know and hang out with all of my Chilean friends. They were so welcoming and friendly. I could not wait for the weekend to go and travel with them to some small beach towns. –Matt Neilson, Gonzaga University

C H I L E E XC U R S I O N S , AC T I V I T I E S A N D E V E N T S

Santiago programs

Day trips• Isla Negra• Pomaire• Valparaíso and Viña del Mar• Human rights tour of Santiago• Tour of a vineyard and harvest (spring semester)• Trip to the Andes Mountains (fall semester)

Excursions• Four-day trip to Golfo de Arauco (fall semester): Includes

visits to the towns of Cañete and Contulmo, a tour of the Mapuche museum, a boat trip on Lago Lanalhue and participation in local Mapuche culture, including meals, dance, music and ceremonies.

• Four-day trip to San Pedro de Atacama (spring semester): Includes visits to Altiplanic lagoons, Atacama villages of Toconao and Socaire, Tatio Geyser, Atacama Salt Flat, and tours of the cities of San Pedro and Calamao.

Other activities• Welcome and farewell dinners• Cultural events such as cooking classes, outings to the

theatre, concerts, etc. Valparaíso programs

Day Trips• Tour of Valparaíso• Isla Negra and Nobel Laureate Pablo Neruda’s house/

museum (spring semester)• Isla de Maipo harvest vineyard tour and Pomaire

artesans town (spring semester)• Isla Negra and Pomaire artisan towns (fall semester)• Aconcagua Valley rural life traditions (fall semester)• Human Rights and Historical Memory Tour of Santiago

Excursions• Four-day trip to southern Chile near Temuco (spring

semester): Includes visits to two Mapuche communities, one near Pacific Ocean and the other in the Andean mountain town of Currarehue, as well as outdoor adventure in the Villarica National Park and Rio Trancura.

• Four-day trip to the Norte Chico region near La Serena (fall semester): Includes visits to astronomical observatories, artisan towns and Gabriela Mistral’s museum in Valle de Elquí, ancient petroglyphs, and historic Andacollo mining town during a colorful religious festival.


All excursions, activities and events are included in the IFSA-Butler program fee


Photo by IFSA-Butler student Anna Ike, Davidson College

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Claire Inselmann, Trinity University

CHILEAN UNIVERSITIES PROGRAM, SANTIAGO

C H I L E

Location: SantiagoCity population: 7 millionRequired GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 5 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: April 1 Semester 2 (July-Dec) Academic year (July-July) October 15 Semester 1 (Feb-July) Calendar year (Feb-Dec)


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HOUSINGIFSA-Butler arranges housing with a carefully selected host family. The program fee includes three meals per day. IFSA-Butler houses only one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.


IFSA-Butler looks for volunteer placements according to students’ interests and experience. A wide range of organizations and volunteer activities have been available in the past:

• World Vision Chile, an international organization that works with children at social risk. Students can assist in leading art, sports and English workshops for children.

• Un Techo Para Chile, an organization that builds basic houses in vulnerable areas.

• Inglés Abre Puertas, which places volunteers as English language assistants in local high schools.

• Proarte works with low-income children conducting visual art workshops.

• Nuestra Casa delivers meals for the homeless.

• Fundación María Jesús Vergara has homes for children with cancer who are seeking treatment in Santiago.

• English language assistants at local universities.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Students choose courses from up to four Santiago universities

• Study available at Universidad de Chile, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Universidad Autónoma de Chile and Universidad Diego Portales

• IFSA-Butler program courses complement university study

• Unparalleled flexibility in course choice

• Located in Santiago, a beautiful and sophisticated city

• All university classes are integrated with degree-seeking students

• A directed research option is available

• All courses are taught in Spanish by Chilean faculty

• Local universities offer language partner programs for further conversational practice

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Anna Ike, Davidson College


Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsEngineeringFine ArtsNatural SciencesSocial Sciences

Popular SubjectsAnthropologyArchitectureCommunicationsEconomicsEngineeringPolitical ScienceSociologyStatisticsStudio Art


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Advanced Spanish: Grammar, Composition and Conversation (required) This class is specially designed for IFSA-Butler students and taught by faculty at the Pontificia Universidad Católica. The class gives students the tools to speak, write and comprehend Spanish at an advanced level while learning about Chilean culture.

Directed Research ProjectStudents have the option to conduct a 6-credit research project on a topic of their choice related to Chile. Students take required courses on research methodology and are then paired with a local professor who serves as an advisor throughout the project. Please note that Directed Research spaces are limited.

History and Society in Contemporary Chile This class uses an interdisciplinary approach to examine Chilean culture and society from the beginning of the 20th century to today. It especially focuses on politics, literature, human rights and sustainable development.

Students take the remainder of their course load at Universidad de Chile , Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Universidad Autónoma de Chile and/or Universidad Diego Portales.

CHILEAN UNIVERSITIES PROGRAM, VALPARAÍSO

C H I L E

Location: Valparaíso and Viña del MarCity population: 300,000 per cityRequired GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 5 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: April 1 Semester 2 (July-Dec) Academic year (July-July) October 15 Semester 1 (Feb-July) Calendar year (Feb-Dec)


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HOUSINGIFSA-Butler arranges housing with a carefully selected host family. Host family homes are in centrally located neighborhoods in Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. The program fee includes three meals per day. IFSA-Butler houses only one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.

CAMPUS AMENITIES• Sports• Cultural activities• Volunteer opportunities

INTERNSHIPStudents can choose to participate in an internship program which places students with a non-profit organization such as the following: educational and recreational program for youth with disabilities (APARID); environmental education and recycling projects (Acción Cousteau); and community literacy initiative (Libro Alegre). This hands-on experience is an integral component of the 3-credit Community Action and Chilean Society course.

Selected interns work for 60 hours during the semester (4 hours per week) and complete 20 classroom hours with a university professor. These sessions are aimed to enhance students’ community experience by tying it to broader issues key to understanding Chilean society. The coursework also requires written journals and reports, as well as oral presentations, all in Spanish, related to the internship. IFSA-Butler staff in Chile assist with internship placements.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Study available at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso and Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María

• Academic flexibility

• Students may participate in IFSA-Butler’s Exploring Community & Culture Program (C&C)

• C&C activities include a special C&C seminar, cultural reflections and field excursions

• Program located in bohemian, student-friendly Valparaíso and picturesque Viña del Mar, voted the best weather destination in the world

• All university classes are taught in Spanish and integrated with degree-seeking students

• IFSA-Butler program courses enhance students’ Spanish skills and broaden their cultural and historical knowledge of Latin America

• Internship opportunities with local non-profit organizations in the areas of disabilities, environmental education and restoration, and community literacy

• Numerous volunteer opportunities to further integrate into Chilean culture

E X P L O R I N G C O M M U N I T Y & C U LT U R E


Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsEngineeringNatural SciencesSocial Sciences

Popular SubjectsBiologyEconomicsEducationGeographyHistoryLinguisticsOceanographyPsychologyReligious Studies/TheologySocial WorkStudio Art


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Volunteer opportunities in Valparaíso may include:

• Accion Cousteau: Serve as a classroom assistant and field trip support staff for coastal environmental education, restoration and recycling projects.

• APARID: Work with a community program that helps children and youth with Down Syndrome. Assist teachers in horticulture, art and current events workshops.

• Greenpeace Chile: Participate in environmental restoration projects in local protected areas and assist with key national environmental campaigns.

• Hogar De Cristo: Provide support to homeless people in the Viña del Mar area. Participate in a multi-disciplinary team led by professionals.

• Libro Alegre: Assist with a community library reading program in local schools and community centers for elementary age children.

• Ministerio de Educacion: Serve as a classroom assistant to elementary and high school English teachers.

• SANA CLOWN: Assist therapists who visit sick children in local hospital.

• Teletón: Promote the integration and social inclusion of children with disabilities through recreational activities with children and community actions with their families.

• YWCA: Do workshops on dance, theatre and art for at-risk children and youth at local YWCA.

PROGRAM COURSES

Advanced Written and Oral Spanish (required) This course is designed by Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (PUCV) specifically for non-native Spanish speak-ers. Placement is determined during orientation.

Sociopolitical History of Latin America, 20th CenturyThis course provides an overview of Latin America’s political and economic structures during the 20th century.

Community Action and Chilean SocietyStudents in this course gain unique perspectives on present-day Chile through an internship with a community organization. Students explore key socio-cultural and political issues through readings, class discussions and presentations, all of which are related to their internship.

Students can choose one of the optional program courses above and take the remainder of their course load at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso and/or Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María.

Caribbean Sea

NICARAGUAPANAMA

COLOMBIA

VENEZUELA

SAN JOSÉ

HerediaUniversidad Nacional

HONDURAS


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C O S TA R I C A

H E R E D I AA college town with a laid-back attitude, Heredia offers a welcoming atmosphere for students. The area is known throughout the world for its coffee plantations and volcanic national parks just outside the city, but it’s also close to San José and its big-city attractions. In your spare time, visit the tropical forests, picture-perfect waterfalls and gleaming rivers that surround Heredia.

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Brigid Connolly Villanova University

Major: Spanish and Cultural Studies


Why did you choose Costa Rica for study abroad?I’m never quite sure how I landed on Costa Rica, but something about the country just made it stick in my head. Of course, it was not purely a gut decision. I knew that the cost of living in Costa Rica was lower than in other countries, I had heard that the nature was awe-inspiring and the people even more so, and that Costa Ricans do not have strong accents. At the end of the day, I wanted to learn a form of Spanish that was fairly neutral, so that I could converse with other Spanish-speakers and be easily understood.

What is your favorite memory of Costa Rica? My favorite memories are of my daily cafecitos with my host family. Every afternoon after classes my host dad, siblings, and I would sit at the kitchen table and share our days with one another over coffee. My response to the inevitable question of “How was school?” could never be “fine.” They all truly cared about what happened during my day, and I equally cared about theirs. It was a daily reminder to slow down, as well as a opportunity to continue to help each other as we would slowly transition to homework as the caffeine kicked in.

What was your favorite IFSA-Butler activity/event?My favorite event was the trip to Ostional Beach to learn about sea turtles. I’m so glad that I forced myself out of bed to go on the sunrise beach hike. The previous night I had fallen asleep on the beach, and had missed seeing the sea turtle laying her eggs. However, I was rewarded on the hike when we came across another sea turtle. The marine biologist with us even let me help her dig the nest!

What advice do you have for future Costa Rica students?Your gut reaction is to always stay with the group, whether it is going on weekend trips or choosing where to sit in class. My biggest piece of advice is, no matter how scary it may seem, branch out. If you think that foreign students are cool at your university, the reverse is true of you. Sit with the locals and make friends in your non-IFSA classes. It is probably one of the fastest ways to immerse yourself in the culture.



IFSA-Butler provided me with the support I needed to make this experience rewarding. If you went to the office and told the staff what you wanted to do with your spare time, they had a million different options. It was incredible how they could just make things happen.

–Lauren Doust, Miami University


COSTA RICA IS A TINY COUNTRY IN CENTRAL

America, but with a wide diversity of geographical

features that will allow you to enjoy different

weathers, places, people and even customs in

short distances. This is a country rich in happiness,

with some kind of grace and ease in everyday

situations. More than 27 percent of our territory

has been set aside as protected areas, and though

Costa Rica has only 0.03% of the world’s landmass,

it has 5 percent of the world’s diversity.

Our wealth and attraction are our biological

reserves, national parks and wildlife refuges, a rich

variety of flora and fauna; plus noble and well-

being people, which are the real essence of the

Costa Rican spirit. We encourage you to live all

these new experiences with an open mind and an

open heart to enjoy every single moment. We will

gladly be by your side to help you in this journey

that will make you culturally and integrally better

human beings.

Sincerely,

Tracy Quirós Rivera, Resident Director

and all the IFSA-Butler staff in Costa Rica


Photo by IFSA-Butler student Ben Menke, University of Evansville

CO S TA R I C A E XC U R S I O N S , AC T I V I T I E S A N D E V E N T S

Orientation Activities• Visit to Monteverde Cloud Forest (spring semester) or

Liberia (fall semester): Activities include informational meetings; introduction to Costa Rican life and culture; discussion of academic differences and expectations; course registration; tour of Heredia, San José and UNA; party with host families; intensive Spanish classes; handcraft or dancing classes; and recreational activities.

• Monteverde orientation activities may include sightseeing, visit to national reserves, tour of a coffee plantation to understand all the coffee process, and an excursion to a canopy over the beautiful cloud forest.

• Liberia orientation activities may include traditional Costa Rican dance lessons, a visit to Rincón de la Vieja National Park, a visit to natural hot springs and rafting at a small canyon.

• Other activities may include the Amigo Tico project with UNA students, tutoring and volunteer work.

• IFSA-Butler staff walk students through everything from how to succeed academically to living with a host family to integrating socially in the host university.

Cultural events• Tour of Teatro Nacional• Visit Museo Nacional or gold museum• Guayabo national monument • Workshop for painting Sarchí Oxcarts • Theatre excursion

Excursions (may vary according to availability and weather)• Tour of organic coffee cooperative in Santa María de Dota• Chocolate tour (cacao plantation) in the Tirimbina Reserve,

Sarapiquí community• Visit to Costa Rica’s world-famous Volcán Arenal• Biocourse at Cerro Bella Vista: Quetzals and high altitude

birds watching• Biocourse at Bahía Drake: Bat, whale and dolphin watching• Save the Turtles expedition

Other activities• Birthday celebrations• T-shirt design contest• Thanksgiving celebration (fall semester)• Follow-up meetings (lunch included)



UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL

C O S TA R I C A

Location: HerediaCity population: 123,000 (central Heredia)Required GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 4 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: April 1 Semester 2 (July-Nov) Academic year (July-June) November 1 Semester 1 (Feb-June) Calendar year (Feb-Nov)


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HOUSINGIFSA-Butler arranges housing with a carefully selected host family. The program fee includes three meals per day and laundry service. IFSA-Butler houses only one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.

CAMPUS AMENITIES• A number of artistic and musical groups for

students• Competitive athletic teams and intramural

sports clubs• Abundant extracurricular activities• Lots of open, green space• Health center, library, cafeteria and computer

labs• Main bus stop at university entrance for easy

commute


Advanced Spanish (required) This intensive Spanish class is specially designed for IFSA-Butler students. The course is offered at different advanced levels, and placement is determined by a series of assessments during orientation in Costa Rica. The class is taught intensively during orientation and continues less frequently throughout the semester.

Ecology and Sustainable Development in Costa Rica Costa Rica hosts one of the largest diversity of species and ecosystems in the world. Over 25 percent of Costa Rica is under protection, thanks to its public and private reserves dedi-cated to conservation, ecotourism and research. Offered through the School of Environmental Sciences, this course is designed to familiar-ize students with tropical ecosystems, their importance, functionality and interrelationship with sustainable development in Costa Rica and the global society. Local and foreign IFSA-Butler program students are integrated in order to promote a more comprehensive training with international perspectives for analysis and discussion. The course is taught in Spanish, and classroom lectures and discussions are enhanced by practical hands-on experience through several required field trips.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• An innovative university in an outstanding natural environment

• Ample opportunities to get involved in campus life at UNA

• IFSA-Butler program courses focus on Spanish skills, environmental studies and the social history of Costa Rica

• Students may enroll in a variety of UNA departments and take classes with Costa Rican students

• Tutors available to help with academics and Spanish skills

• All coursework is in Spanish and taught by UNA faculty

• Extensive volunteer opportunities available in the community and surrounding area


Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsFine ArtsNatural SciencesSocial Sciences

Popular SubjectsAnimal Science/ZoologyBiologyEducationEnvironmental ScienceForestryLinguisticsLiteratureMicrobiologyOceanologyPsychologyStudio ArtVeterinary Studies


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Social History of Costa Rica This optional class introduces IFSA-Butler students to Costa Rica’s dynamic social history. Starting in the pre-Columbian era, this course guides students through major historical events that helped shape Costa Rica into the peaceful country it is today.

Students complete their course load with three to four integrated courses at Universidad Nacional.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESIFSA-Butler students can give back to their host culture through volunteer work. The following opportunities are available for two or more hours per week:• International organizations (human rights, business)• Government Institutions (Ministry of Education, Chamber of Commerce)• Teaching English (Preschool through high school)• Professor assistant (English school at UNA) • Social work (Work in a poor community of Heredia with a social institution) • Teaching sports, music or computer skills to children • Ecological Institutions (INBio Parque, National Biodiversity Institute)• UNA Exchange club (practice English and Spanish with UNA students and make friends)• Psychology work at Escuela Neuropsiquiatrica de Costa Rica or other institutions

Students may also participate in volunteer expeditions lasting from five to 15 hours during weekends. Possible activities include:• Beach patrolling on the Caribbean or Pacific coast• Universidad Nacional volunteer group work• Biological Stations (Estación Biológica La Selva in Sarapiquí)• Work in rural primary and secondary schools• Community work at indigenous towns or in the beautiful island of Isla Venado• Tree planting or cleaning beaches and roads

Students who successfully complete 20 hours or more of volunteer experience will receive an IFSA-Butler certificate of completion at the end of the semester.

UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIESCONCENTRATIONLocation: HerediaCity population: 123,000 (central Heredia)Required GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 4 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: April 1 Semester 2 (July-Nov) November 1 Semester 1 (Feb-June)

C O S TA R I C A


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PROGR AM COURSES (ALL TAUGHT IN SPANISH) Advanced Spanish (required)

This intensive Spanish class is specially designed for IFSA-Butler students. The course is offered at different advanced levels, and placement is determined by a series of assessments during orientation in Costa Rica. The class is taught intensively during orientation and continues less frequently throughout the semester.

Ecology and Sustainable Development in Costa Rica This course is designed to familiarize students with tropical ecosystems, their importance, functionality and interrelationship with sustainable development in Costa Rica and the global society. Local and foreign IFSA-Butler students are integrated in order to promote a more comprehensive training with international perspectives for analysis and discussion. The course is taught in Spanish, and classroom lectures are enhanced by practical hands-on experience through several required field trips. Students complete their courseload with two or three integrated courses at Universidad Nacional. Possible courses may include:

• Clean Technologies• Drawing and Interpreting Environmental Plans• Environmental Policy and Legislation• Environmental Economics• Food Security• Forest Hydrology• Fundamentals of Energy• Plant Illnesses• Plantation Management HOUSINGIFSA-Butler arranges housing with a carefully selected host family. The program fee includes three meals per day and laundry service. IFSA-Butler houses one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESA community service component is integrated into this program. Students will work with organizations such as Inbioparque, doing environmental conservation and protection, and Programa Bandera Azul, which facilitates community and beach beautification projects.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Focus on environmental studies in one of the world’s most eco-friendly destinations

• Combine specialized environmental studies and an advanced Spanish class with integrated classes at Universidad Nacional

• Study in Heredia, a beautiful college town with a laid-back atmosphere, located just outside San José

• Academic tutors available to help with coursework and Spanish language acquisition

• Environmental volunteer opportunities included

• Program excursions and activities focus on environmental conservation, sustainable tourism and community development

• Special $1,000 scholarship opportunity available


Location: HerediaCity population: 123,000 (central Heredia)Required GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 4 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: April 1 Semester 2 (July-Nov) Academic year (July-June) November 1 Semester 1 (Feb-June) Calendar year (Feb-Nov)

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS• Combine education courses and hands-on classroom

interactions with a unique cultural experience• Ideal for future Spanish or ESL teachers, or for any

education major with advanced Spanish skills who wants to be prepared for the increasingly diverse U.S. classroom

• Students take core courses in advanced Spanish and comparative education

• Integrated courses in education or other subjects at Universidad Nacional are also part of the curriculum

• An optional non-credit workshop preparing students for the ACTFL test

• All courses are taught in Spanish by UNA faculty

HOUSINGIFSA-Butler arranges housing with a carefully selected host family. The program fee includes three meals per day and laundry service. IFSA-Butler houses one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.

TEACHER EDUCATIONIN COSTA RICA

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PROGRAM COURSES Development of Education and Education Models (required) The course contrasts theory with classroom practice developed in the Costa Rican educational system. It also seeks to encourage in students the development of attitudes and values surrounding ethical, environmental, political, social, cultural and gender issues, consistent with a vision developed by educators themselves that serves to fight for equity, solidarity and other promoters of a more just society.

Advanced Spanish (required) This intensive Spanish class is specially designed for IFSA-Butler students. The course is offered at different advanced levels, and placement is determined by a series of assessments during orientation in Costa Rica. The class is taught intensively during orientation and continues less frequently throughout the semester. Social History of Costa Rica This optional class introduces IFSA-Butler students to Costa Rica’s dynamic social history. Starting in the pre-Columbian era, this course guides students through major historical events that helped shape Costa Rica into the peaceful country it is today.

Students complete their courseload with two or three integrated courses at UNA’s prestigious School of Education or other departments. Available subjects may include:

• Art and Visual Communication• Elementary Education• English• Health and Physical Education• Music and Performing Arts• Preschool education• Social Studies• Special Education• Studies in Pedagogy, Leadership and Educational Research• Teaching of Spanish

See page 64 for a list of available subjects at UNA.

C O S TA R I C A

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M O R E C U LT U R E . L E S S S H O C K . 43Photo by IFSA-Butler student Meredith Norris, American University


C U B A

H AVA N AHavana is the capital city and leading commercial center of Cuba. Its signature colonial architecture dots every corner of the city, lending a distinctly historic air to the casual, Caribbean atmosphere that permeates Cuban society. A colorful ocean view provides a postcard-perfect backdrop to the city and creates great opportunities for water sports and relaxation. Havana features plenty of nightclubs and other student-centered entertainment, all intermingled with the unique atmosphere of modern Cuban culture.




C O S TA R I C A

NOW IS THE TIME TO EXPERIENCE CUBA,

home to some of Latin America’s most fascinating

cultures and an ideal location for the adventurous

and open-minded study abroad student.

IFSA-Butler’s renowned program at Universidad

de La Habana first opened in 2000 and is still the

best way for U.S. college students to experience

the university’s challenging academics while

being immersed in the beautiful and lively

culture of Cuba.

Our nation is just 90 miles southeast of the Florida

Keys, but when you’re here you’ll feel a world away.

Although Cuba shares many aspects of its physical

beauty with its neighbors—pristine beaches;

lush, green mountains; and urban palm trees—its

culture, politics and economy are unlike any other.

In Cuba, you will come face-to-face with history

and learn firsthand how historic events influence

the present. At the same time, however, you will

see daily changes as the country adapts to the new

century and prepares for the future.

I welcome you to Cuba and look forward to helping

you adjust to this once in a lifetime opportunity!

Sincerely,

Michelle Ranieri, Resident Director

C U B A E XC U R S I O N S , AC T I V I T I E S A N D E V E N T S

Orientation Activities• Welcome meal• Social events and activities• Guided tour of La Habana Vieja: Visit the main

colonial buildings of the city and the places that stand out for their historical and modern evolution

• Visit to Finca Vigía, the home of Ernest Hemingway that highlights the presence of the author in different places throughout the city

Cultural events• Group meals• Cultural activities (concerts, ballet, theatre, etc.)

Excursions• Trip to Viñales, a city in western Cuba: Visit the

most important tobacco region of the country. In this picturesque valley, students will visit farms to see the tobacco and coffee production processes, as well as la Cueva del Indio, a pre-historic park.

• Trip to Trinidad, a World Heritage site: This well-preserved city was originally developed as part of the “Valle de los ingenious,” where large sugar haciendas have traditionally flourished.





UNIVERSIDAD DE LA HABANA

C U B A

Location: Havana, CubaCity population: 2 millionRequired GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 5 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: April 1 Fall semester (Aug-Dec) October 15 Spring semester (Jan-May)

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HOUSINGStudents on the Cuba program are placed with a host family. Rooms are shared doubles with air conditioning, shared bathroom and access to a refrigerator. The program fee includes breakfast and dinner daily; students can purchase lunches on or near the Universidad de La Habana campus.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Direct enroll in classes at the prestigious Universidad de La Habana, one of Latin America’s oldest and best regarded universities

• Take classes integrated with Cuban students

• A wide range of subjects are available

• IFSA-Butler provides core courses that focus on Cuban culture and history

• Guaranteed housing in a home-style atmosphere

• IFSA-Butler’s full time resident director provides on-site support and assistance

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Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsNatural SciencesSocial Sciences

Popular SubjectsBiologyComputer ScienceEconomicsJournalismLatin American StudiesPhilosophyPhysicsRussian Language



Cuba: Culture, Art and Society (required) This course focuses on Cuban culture and patrimony. It looks at a panorama of topics to help students better understand their host communities, including aboriginal Cuban cultures, 18th and 19th century events, and the growth of cultural and scientific societies. It also explores Cuban linguistics, as well as museums showcasing art, ethnology, ethnography and anthropology. Coursework focuses on management of historical and cultural patrimony and tourism, as well as case studies such as the urban centers of Baracoa and Habana Vieja (Old Havana). Cultural values surrounding collections, paintings, recordings, literature, architecture, and film, and well as racial and demographic issues, are explored.

Advanced Spanish (recommended) IFSA-Butler also offers an Advanced Spanish course that gives special attention to the rhythm and unique characteristics of Cuban Spanish. The course aims to improve students’ use of Spanish in both a classroom setting and in daily living situations.

Students complete their course load with integrated courses at Universidad de La Habana.

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PANAMA

QUITO


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E C U A D O R

Q U I TONestled high in the Andes Mountains, Quito is a city of

contrasts. Traditional colonial charm balanced with a frenetic

cosmopolitan pulse led UNESCO to choose Quito as one of its first World Heritage cities. Spend your spare time exploring the city’s many markets, museums, theatres and diverse selection of restaurants.


BIENVENIDOS TO A ONE-OF-A-KIND COUNTRY!

In Rehearsing Change you will be part of a

groundbreaking movement called Fair Trade

Study Abroad, living and learning with local

communities, creating projects that benefit the

communities. Our dynamic faculty and staff

will challenge you to re-imagine education and

development within a safe space where everyone

is treated as equals. What’s more, our program

offers you the opportunity to travel from pristine

beaches to snow-capped volcanoes to the Amazon

Rainforest, learning about diverse cultures and

traditions, while simultaneously realizing you are in

one of the most bio-diverse spots on earth.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Ecuador!

Sincerely,

Daniel Bryan, Resident Director

E C UA D O R E XC U R S I O N S , AC T I V I T I E S A N D E V E N T S

Activities• Welcome meal• Visits to museums• Theatre performances• Dance and music performances• Movie nights• Cooking classes

Excursions

• Visit to Tiputini Biodiversity Research Station, called “the most bio-diverse spot on Earth,” followed by a Toxic Tour to learn about past and present issues related to the extraction of natural resources in the Amazon

• Trip to the Ecuadorian highlands to visit community development projects and different indigenous villages in the provinces of Bolivar and Cotopaxi

• Excursion to the Ecuadorian coast to spend time with an Afro-Ecuadorian community in the province of Esmeraldas, exchanging cultural performances


PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Focuses on using the arts for social change

• Program students and local participants form one cohort that collaborates on creative projects in order to confront global challenges on a local level

• Professors are world-renowned experts from Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Ecuador’s highest-ranking university

• Students live in and travel around the Amazon Rainforest

• Organized by teachers, artists and community activists who seek social justice through creative educational programming

• Any student interested in the arts, social change or international development may apply to this program

• Offered in partnership with the Pachaysana Institute, a non-governmental organization based in Quito

REHEARSING CHANGE

E C U A D O R

HOUSINGHousing is with a carefully selected host family, with one or two students per family. The program fee includes three meals per day.

PROGRAM LOCATIONSRehearsing Change fall semesters are based in Quito’s historical center. Students work hand-in-hand with members of marginalized communities and regularly visit the Amazon region. The spring semester is based in rural Amazon communities, where students live and study with indigenous and farming communities, often traveling to Quito and other communities around the country.

PROGR AM CURRICULUM (ALL TAUGHT IN SPANISH)

Students take four courses, and an optional independent study is also available.

Identity and Place This course asks students and community counterparts to examine who they are as related to the ever-changing environment in which they live. For this course, environment is approached broadly. While it most often refers to the immediate world around us, this course asks students to see the interconnections between one’s present surroundings and a global ecology. We challenge students to rethink who we are with regards to our collective identity (or identities), examining our globalized society as interconnected communities.

Location: Quito, Ecuador and the AmazonCity population: Quito: 1.6 millionRequired GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 4 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: March 15 Fall semester (Aug-Dec) September 15 Spring semester (Jan-May)

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Design and Evaluation of Sustainable Community Projects Our many courses, and the resulting projects, must be carried out according to well-studied and effectively practiced methodologies in design and evaluation. This course takes students through the different phases necessary for effective design and evaluation of a development project. Topics are chosen by students and their counterparts based on conflicts or needs existing within our host community.

Storytelling: Language and Movement This course takes students through a process that seeks to unleash the power of stories, but most especially we attempt to harness such a power in the creation and presentation of our own stories. Based on the realities present in our host community, students work with their counterparts, combining theory with practice, to create and tell stories to the community at large. The telling is done orally and in physical expression.

Theatre for Social Change and Innovation The cohort learns processes of creating social change by being creative. With particular focus on the identification and transformation of conflicts that are pertinent to participants’ lives, we engage in exercises and activities that pull from the areas of Theatre of the Oppressed, Participatory Theatre, Performance Activism and Theatre for Community Development. We work closely with community leaders to evaluate the work from our course for its potential with later community-based innovative activities.

Independent Study Internationals are welcome to add on an independent study as a fifth course. The independent study can be carried out as an internship or personal research project. Depending on the host community, there are numerous options available for internships, including working in primary education, English instruction, public health, agriculture, social entrepreneurship and more.

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Mérida Universities Program


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M E X I C O

M É R I D AThe capital and largest city of Yucatán, Mérida lies in sharp contrast to many Americans’ stereotypes about Mexican cities. The city is compact and tranquil, yet also a cosmopolitan center of culture in southern Mexico. It’s also famed for having a relaxed attitude and student-friendly atmosphere. Colonial Spanish architecture adds to Mérida’s beauty and personifies the city’s long history, while a thriving Mayan influence shows in the local language and dress. In your spare time, take advantage of free evening concerts and Mérida’s exciting nightlife.




Latin American and Argentine Literature The main focus of this course is to reflect on literary construc-tion methods used by Argentine authors to make possible the perception of complexity of the cultural spaces that originate in Latin American culture. Texts selected for this course represent a wide variety of authors from different cultural nationalities such as Horacio Quiroga, Rodolfo Walsh, Jorge Luis Borges and Carlos Fuentes.



Megan Griffin Georgetown University

Major: Comparative Literature

IFSA-Butler Program: Mérida Universities Program

Why did you choose Mexico for study abroad?In all of my classes, I was always drawn to the elements that involved Mexican culture and history. I also became very involved in the immigrant rights movement at my university and a folkloric Mexican dance group. I began to investigate more about culture and politics and decided Mexico was something really special.

What is your favorite memory of Mexico? I remember riding on the back of my boyfriend’s bicycle one evening, the two of us falling as we tried to climb a slight. We laughed so hard tears were pouring down my face, and I just remember him saying to himself exactly what I was thinking: “Qué felicidad!” “What happiness!”

How did IFSA-Butler help enhance your experience?By taking care of all the tiresome details, I got to spend more time worrying about my classes, my immersion, my experience.

What was your favorite IFSA-Butler activity/event?The weekend trip to Chiapas.

What advice do you have for future Mexico students?Really make the effort to meet local students and befriend them. It will deepen your experience and force you to understand Mexico politically, socially, linguistically, etc. The youth perspective of Yucatán and Mexico shouldn’t be missed!


Visit us on the web. Learn more about IFSA-Butler programs, read student blogs and find helpful academic, cultural, predeparture and safety information on our website, www.ifsa-butler.org.




C O S TA R I C A

MÉRIDA, ALSO KNOWN AS “LA CIUDAD

Blanca,” is the capital of the state of Yucatán.

Located in southeast México, Mérida is one of

the safest cities in Latin America and a living

laboratory of ancient cultures still present today

through architecture, language and amazing

cuisine. Its combination of the great pre-Hispanic

Mayan civilization with Spanish colonial traces

will transport you to a time and place difficult to

imagine unless you experience life here.

Only in Mérida will you be surrounded with year-

round balmy Caribbean breeze, beautiful colors

of nature and the pleasures of a much simpler life.

Indeed, one of the most interesting attractions of

the Yucatán is its very location! Only here could

you visit Chichén-Itzá, one of the wonders of the

modern world; have lunch by a cenote; snorkel in

the Caribbean; and bring yourself back to modern

Mérida by attending a concert in a beautiful

theater in the evening...all in the same day.

You will be a different person after Mérida. You

will be in class with local students in two different

universities and the IFSA-Butler staff will make sure

you are exposed to the best cultural and academic

offerings available.

¡Nos vemos pronto!

Sincerely,

Diana Arízaga, Resident Director

and all the IFSA-Butler staff in Mexico



Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsEngineeringFine ArtsHealth SciencesPhysical SciencesSocial Sciences

Top Ranked SubjectsAnthropologyClassicsMusic StudiesPublic PolicyStudio ArtsZoology


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Y U C ATÁ N E XC U R S I O N S , AC T I V I T I E S A N D E V E N T S

Cultural events• City tour• Welcome reception with local students• Visit to Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, which showcases

local history and Mayan artifacts• Participation in Biciruta, when Mérida closes off a

beautiful area of downtown to traffic so that residents can cycle, walk, exercise and enjoy family time

• Concerts by Mérida’s symphony orchestra• Yucatecan cuisine cooking classes

Field Excursions• Ten-day IFSA-Butler orientation, followed by a

weekend excursion to a wonderful cenote • Four-day excursion (spring) to Cuba to understand the

Caribbean influence in the Yucatán• Five-day excursion (fall) to Mexico City, one of the most

exciting cities in the world, and Chiapas• Chiapas excursion includes visits to archaeological

sites, indigenous communities, markets, museums and churches within San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming, bohemian colonial city known for its artists and crafts

• One-day excursion to Chichén-Itzá archaeological site, one of the most visited archaeological sites in Latin America

• One-day excursion to the Uxmal archaeological site, believed to be the height of Mayan architecture

• Three-day community immersion in the Mayan village of Yaxunah

Other activities• Exploring Community & Culture seminar with amazing

lecturers and interesting activities• Orientation pack with useful goodies: T-shirt, towel,

water bottle• Welcome and farewell celebration at the beginning

and end of program

All excursions, activities and events are included in the IFSA-Butler program fee


MERIDA UNIVERSITIES PROGRAM

M E X I C O

Location: Mérida, state of YucatánCity population: 800,000Required GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 4 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent

Application deadlines: April 1 Fall semester (Aug-Dec) Academic year (Aug-May) October 15 Spring semester (Jan-May)

Summer study in Mexico is also available. See our website or summer catalog for details.


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HOUSINGIFSA-Butler arranges housing with a carefully selected host family. The program fee includes three meals per day and laundry. IFSA-Butler houses only one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESVolunteer opportunities are available for all program participants at both participating universities. Past students have worked with orphanages, local schools, city hall, museums, hotels, tourist agencies and religious organizations. IFSA-Butler students may also participate in the UADY’s volunteer group Hoy en tu Comunidad, which serves rural Yucatán in a number of interdisciplinary fields.

STUDY TOURISM IN MERIDA Both participating universities offer tourism as an academic discipline from two different perspectives. UADY approaches tourism from a social standpoint and examines issues such as the impact of tourism on local communities, cultural heritage, food and drink, and tourism history, while Universidad Modelo approaches it from the services-related perspective, with courses such as accounting and marketing.

PUBLIC HEALTH CONCENTRATION IFSA-Butler students have the option of a specialized academic concentration focusing on public health. This is a great opportunity for students to gain in-depth knowledge by completing coursework in public health and life sciences at UADY and Universidad Modelo. Students also work with local health profes-sionals and organizations in rural and urban settings that will expose them to traditional and non-traditional approaches to health care.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Take classes at two prestigious universities: Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY), one of Mexico’s most prestigious universities, and Universidad Modelo, a private university with excellent academic facilities

• A high quality, fulfilling academic environment

• A full range of coursework available in the social sciences, humanities, education, business, law, psychology, art, design, architecture and sciences

• Students may participate in IFSA-Butler’s weekly seminar, Exploring Community & Culture (C&C), which focuses on students’ appreciation of local culture with field excursions and activities

• C&C seminar focuses on students’ reflection and appreciation about the local culture through conferences, in and out of class activities, field excursions and community insertion

• IFSA-Butler students enjoy the same benefits as degree-seeking Mexican students, including discounts for transportation and events, and access to all facilities at both universities

E X P L O R I N G C O M M U N I T Y & C U LT U R E


Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsHealth SciencesNatural SciencesSocial Sciences

Popular SubjectsAnthropologyArchaeologyBusinessFood Science/NutritionHistoryLatin American StudiesMarketingPublic HealthSociologyTourism


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Mandatory Spanish: Advanced Spanish I (required) This mandatory Spanish language class is designed exclusively for IFSA-Butler students. The class is taught by a Mexican language instructor and meets for 45 hoursduring the semester.

Exploring Yucatán: Community & Culture (required) This seminar is designed to assist you in getting the most out of your study abroad experience through thoughtful and meaningful reflections, analysis and discussion of contemporary Mexico through key concepts such as community and interculturality. This course fosters opportunities and tools to allow you to blend intercultural learning with an exploration of local community and local community groups.

Directed Research Project This option offers the chance to do field research in a contemporary issue of your interest. Students who choose to do the research project must take this course.

Students complete their course load with integrated courses at Universdad Modelo and Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán. At UADY most students take courses at Facultad de Ciencias Antropológicas, including: history, Latin American literature, cultural anthropology, archaeology, tourism and social communication. Courses in other faculties are also available.


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P E R U

L I M AOne of the most cosmopolitan and important capitals in South America, Lima is in a stunningly beautiful setting at the foot of the Andes surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. A modern city with colonial elegance still intact, Lima is known worldwide for its fantastic cuisine and wide variety of museums, archaeological sites and famous architectural treasures. The city’s local markets feature beautiful crafts, silver products and jewelry, and its youth-friendly entertainment attracts students from around the world. In addition, Lima’s location on the Pacific is ideal for all kinds of activities, from water sports to hang gliding from the cliffs over the beaches.


Alanna Hochberg Miami University

Major: ` Spanish and Latin American Studies

IFSA-Butler Program: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

Why did you choose Peru for study abroad?I chose Peru because no one else from my home university had studied abroad in Peru before. I wanted to be the first one at my school to study abroad through this program.

What is your favorite memory of Peru? My favorite memory from Peru was Thanksgiving. Our director, Laura Balbuena, had brought cans of pumpkin from her recent trip to the U.S. for us to make pumpkin pie and had specially ordered a turkey for us. Everyone was so excited to be together and we were all discussing what we were thankful for in English and in Spanish. That night, I realized how much we had become family. I was, and still am, incredibly grateful for the my Peruvian-American family.

How did IFSA-Butler help enhance your experience?IFSA-Butler provided me with any extra help that I needed. When I first arrived in Lima, I struggled with speaking Spanish every day and had difficulties becoming accustomed to the Peruvian way of grading. Luckily, IFSA-Butler provided Peruvian tutors at no extra expense to help me pass my classes. Because of this extra help, I was able to pass all of my classes with either a B or an A.

What were you scared of before going abroad?I was scared that I wasn’t going to make any friends or that I might not get along with my host family. I was also scared of leaving my family. At first, a year seemed like such a long time to leave the people I love behind. However, after becoming more accustomed to Peru and making Peruvian and international friends, I didn’t want to leave!

What advice do you have for future Peru students?Don’t be afraid to study abroad in a country that no one else is going to. This experience will make you different from others and you will have various experiences to share

with friends and family when you come home. Lastly, travel, travel and TRAVEL! You will never again have the time to go to school and travel every weekend.


IFSA-Butler takes student support seriously. Our on-site staff in each country provide personal and academic assistance to students and are available for emergency help 24 hours a day.


WELCOME TO OUR PROGRAM IN PERU!

In Peru, you can climb the highlands of Machu

Picchu, surf the waves of the Pacific Ocean or go

bird-watching in the Amazon rainforest, making it

one of the most exciting countries in the region.

In this melting pot of cultures and traditions, you

will be amazed by Peru’s diversity, outstanding

cuisine and long history. I hope you take every

opportunity the program and Peru offer you to

grow personally and academically. Our staff will

support you in achieving all of your goals during

your time abroad. Without any doubt, this will be

the time of your life!

Sincerely,

Laura Balbuena, Resident Director

and all the IFSA-Butler staff in Peru


P E R U E XC U R S I O N S , AC T I V I T I E S A N D E V E N T S

Excursions• Trip to breathtaking Machu Picchu, starting first in colonial

Cusco and also exploring the ruins of Ollantaytambo

• Trip to Caral, an ancient city dating to 3000 B.C. that was discovered in 1994 and is still being excavated today

• Visit to the Huaca Pucllana, a great adobe and clay pyramid that served as an important ceremonial and administrative center for the advancement of Peruvian culture between 200 and 700 AD

• Excursion for academic year students to the Amazon rainforest: Includes a visit to a shaman to learn about traditional medicine; visit with the Yagua tribe; animal watching and visit to an animal sanctuary; a boat trip; and a night walk in the jungle. The excursion is free for academic year students; semester 1 students also may participate for an additional fee.

Activities• Salsa and Latino dance lessons every Monday

• Thanksgiving dinner (semester 2)

• Farewell party with host families



PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Outstanding academics at one of the highest ranked universities in Latin America

• Vibrant academic life that includes international congresses and seminars, a diverse and international student body, and some of the best professors in Peru

• Community-based learning that enhances the study abroad experience by helping students become involved in Peruvian social, economic and political issues

• Study available in a wide range of subjects, from humanities to sciences to engineering

• Courses that are difficult to find in other Latin American institutions

• Two courses designed exclusively for IFSA-Butler students: Advanced Academic Writing and Peruvian Culture, and Peruvian Social Reality

• Students take two or three university courses at PUCP

• Archaeology majors can work at Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Incan site from the Lima culture that dates from 0 to 700 AD and is still under exploration

PONTIFICIA UNIVERSIDAD CATÓLICA DEL PERÚ

P E R U

Location: LimaCity population: 8 millionRequired GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale) Spanish language 5 semesters of college-level requirement: Spanish or equivalent


Summer study in Peru is also available. See our website or summer catalog for details.

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HOUSINGIFSA-Butler arranges housing with a carefully selected host family in the quiet residential suburbs of Miraflores or San Isidro. The program fee includes two meals a day Monday through Saturday and one meal on Sunday. IFSA-Butler houses only one student per family for maximum cultural and language integration.

COMMUNIT Y-BASED LEARNINGStudents work with a local NGO throughout the semester as part of the mandatory Peruvian Social Reality course. Community-basedlearning opportunities include working with domestic workers, building homes for the homeless, volunteering with a recycling organization, working with an organization that focuses on reproductive and sexual rights, working with children at orphanages or shelters, or helping at an organization that focuses on health policies and issues.

SPECIALIZED GENDER CONCENTRATION IFSA-Butler students have the option to choose a specialized academic concentration focusing on gender issues. Any student accepted to the PUCP program is able to participate in this concentration.

The concentration is a great opportunity for students to gain in-depth knowledge of gender studies by taking courses at PUCP and by working with local NGOs that focus on gender issues. Coursework for the concentration is a mixture of two IFSA-Butler program courses and integrated university classes.


Arts and HumanitiesBusiness and EconomicsEngineeringNatural SciencesSocial Sciences

Popular SubjectsAnthropologyArchaeologyBusiness LawEconomicsEnvironmental EngineeringGender StudiesGeographyJournalismMining EngineeringPolitical Science


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Advanced Academic Writing and Peruvian Culture (required) This class helps participants reach and perfect competence at the advanced level in Spanish language, with an emphasis on oral and written skills on both formal and informal levels. The class also emphasizes vocabulary and pronunciation. Students participate in discussions and weekly essays that focus in part on Peruvian and Latin American issues.

Peruvian Social Reality (required) This course helps students reach a basic understanding of Peruvian social reality. While the course does not propose to offer a detailed analysis of specific issues, it does present the principal economic, social and political problems of the country in terms of an overall analytical perspective. The course focuses on an individual research project based on the experience of each student in an NGO.

Students complete their course load with integrated courses at Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú.


I F S A - B U T L E R

AVA I L A B L E S U B J E C T S Accounting ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program

ChileCUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso

CubaUniversidad de La Habana

PeruPontificia Universidad Católica

del Perú

Advertising Chile CUP Santiago

AgricultureChile CUP Santiago

Costa Rica Universidad Nacional

Anatomy/Physiology ChileCUP Valparaíso

Animal Science/Zoology ChileCUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso


Anthropology ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program

ChileCUP Santiago


MexicoMérida Universities Program


del Perú

Archaeology MexicoMérida Universities Program


del Perú

Architecture and PlanningArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago


del Perú

Argentine Studies Argentina Argentine Universities ProgramBuenos Aires Intermediate Mendoza Universities Program

Art, Fine and Studio ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program


Costa RicaUniversidad Nacional

Art History ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramBuenos Aires Intermediate Mendoza Universities Program





del Perú

Astronomy Chile CUP Santiago


Biochemistry ChileCUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso


Biology Chile CUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso



Biotechnology ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago

Photo by IFSA-Butler student Mallory Combs, Depauw University



Botany/Plant Science Chile CUP Santiago


Business (may include Business Law, International Business, Human Resources and Management) Argentina Argentine Universities Program Buenos Aires Intermediate Mendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso




del Perú

Chemistry ChileCUP Santiago CUP Valparaíso




del Perú

Chilean Studies ChileCUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso

Classics ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago

Communications ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program





del Perú

Computer Science ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago



Costa Rican Studies Costa RicaTeacher Education in Costa Rica Universidad Nacional

Creative Writing ArgentinaArgentine Universities Program

Cuban Studies CubaUniversidad de La Habana

Cultural Studies ArgentinaBuenos Aires Intermediate

Chile CUP Santiago

Dance ArgentinaArgentine Universities Program Mendoza Universities Program

ChileCUP Santiago


Dentistry ChileCUP Santiago

Drama/Theatre ArgentinaArgentine Universities Program Buenos Aires IntermediateMendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago


EcuadorRehearsing Change


del Perú

Ecology Costa Rica Universidad Nacional

ChileCUP Santiago

Economics ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramBuenos Aires IntermediateMendoza Universities Program






del Perú

Education ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

ChileCUP Santiago CUP Valparaíso

Costa RicaTeacher Education in Costa Rica Universidad Nacional



del Perú

Engineering, Chemical Chile CUP Santiago CUP Valparaíso

Engineering, Civil ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago


Engineering, Computer/Software Chile CUP Santiago

Engineering, Electrical Chile CUP Santiago

Engineering, Environmental Chile CUP Santiago



del Perú

Engineering, Industrial ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

Engineering, Mechanical Chile CUP Santiago CUP Valparaíso

Engineering, Mining ChileCUP Santiago


del Perú

Engineering, Petroleum ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

Environmental Science ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program




del Perú

European Studies ArgentinaArgentine Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago


Exercise Science Chile CUP Valparaíso


Film Studies ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramBuenos Aires Intermediate

ChileCUP Santiago





AVA I L A B L E S U B J E C T S


Finance ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program





del Perú

Food Science/Nutrition ChileCUP Santiago



Forestry Chile CUP Santiago


Gender Studies ArgentinaArgentine Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago


PeruPontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

Genetics Costa RicaUniversidad Nacional

Geography ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago

CUP Valparaíso



PeruPontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

Geology(may include Meteorology and Oceanology) ChileCUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso



del Perú

Graphic Design ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

ChileCUP Santiago



del Perú

Health Care Studies ChileCUP Santiago


History ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramBuenos Aires Intermediate Mendoza Universities Program






del Perú

Human Movement Science (may include Exercise Science, Kinesiology and Sports Science) Chile CUP Santiago


Human Rights ArgentinaArgentine Universities Program

ChileCUP Santiago

IFSA-Butler made sure that I wasn’t just showing up in a seat every day, but that I was truly present in the culture. They acted as ambassadors into the harder to reach areas of Chilean life and helped explain what I didn’t understand in a way that no other organization or individual could.–Marielle Petranoff, Michigan State University


Indigenous StudiesArgentinaArgentine Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago




del Perú

International Development Chile CUP Santiago


del Perú

Internships ChileCUP Valparaíso

Journalism ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program




del Perú

Latin American Studies ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramBuenos Aires Intermediate Mendoza Universities Program


Costa Rica Teacher Education in Costa Rica Universidad Nacional




del Perú

Law/Legal Studies ChileCUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso

Library Science Costa RicaUniversidad Nacional


Linguistics Argentina Argentine Universities Program Mendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago CUP Valparaíso



del Perú

Literature Argentina Argentine Universities ProgramBuenos Aires Intermediate Mendoza Universities Program






del Perú

Marine Science Chile CUP Valparaíso


Marketing Argentina Argentine Universities Program

ChileCUP Santiago


Mathematics Argentina Argentine Universities Program





del Perú

Media Studies ArgentinaArgentine Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago

Mexican Studies MexicoMérida Universities Program

Music PerformanceArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

ChileCUP Santiago


Music Studies Argentina Mendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago


Nursing Chile CUP Santiago

Occupational Therapy Chile CUP Santiago

Peruvian Studies PeruPontificia Universidad Católica

del Perú

Pharmacy Chile CUP Santiago


Philosophy ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program






del Perú

Photography Chile CUP Santiago

Physics ChileCUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso





del Perú

Political Science (may include International Relations)Argentina Argentine Universities Program Buenos Aires Intermediate Mendoza Universities Program




del Perú

PsychologyArgentina Argentine Universities Program Mendoza Universities Program






del Perú



AVA I L A B L E S U B J E C T SPublic Health Chile CUP Valparaíso


Public Relations ArgentinaArgentine Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago

Religious Studies/Theology ArgentinaArgentine Universities Program



Russian Language/Studies CubaUniversidad de La Habana

Social Work ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program




del Perú

Sociology ArgentinaArgentine Universities ProgramMendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago





del Perú

Spanish Language/Studies Argentina Argentine Universities ProgramBuenos Aires Intermediate Mendoza Universities Program


Costa Rica Teacher Education in Costa Rica Universidad Nacional




del Perú

Speech Therapy Chile CUP Santiago

Statistics ChileCUP SantiagoCUP Valparaíso


Sustainability Studies Costa RicaUniversidad Nacional


Tourism ArgentinaMendoza Universities Program

Chile CUP Santiago



Veterinary Studies Chile CUP Santiago



I would suggest making a conscious effort to really remain open-minded the whole semester. As you learn more about your surroundings and new lifestyle, be sure to talk out your observations with your friends and the IFSA-Butler staff. They are all so supportive and can help you stay open-minded to new ideas and experiences throughout your months abroad. –Shelby Layne, Barnard College


E L I G I B I L I T Y A N D A P P L Y I N G

ELIGIBILIT YIFSA-Butler programs are open to any qualified undergraduate in good standing enrolled full time at an accredited college or university in the United States or Canada. Most of our affiliated universities abroad require that students have completed two full years of undergraduate study before the program begins.

Our affiliated colleges and universities abroad determine our admissions requirements. See the individual university profiles for GPA, Spanish background and other academic requirements.

We reserve the right to reject applicants on the basis of academic, disciplinary, conduct and other considerations.

APPLYINGAdmissions to IFSA-Butler programs are conducted on a rolling basis, which means that once your application is complete, we send it to the host university for an admissions decision. Some of our more popular and competitive programs fill well before the deadline.

Note that IFSA-Butler does not charge an application fee.

How to ApplyIFSA-Butler requires only one application. You may ask to be considered for more than one program on the same application. Download an application or apply online at www.ifsa-butler.org.

A completed program application includes the following:

• A program approval form completed by your study abroad advisor. If your university does not have a study abroad advisor, an official with the authority to approve study abroad (such as a dean or registrar) may complete this form.

• An official transcript from your home college or university (and from each of any others you have attended) showing credits and grades for all college or university courses you have taken.

• A recommendation form completed by a Spanish professor, an instructor in your major discipline or the discipline in which you wish to concentrate abroad.

• Spanish language evaluation. This evaluation must be completed by a different faculty member than the person who completes your recommendation.

• One 2-inch by 2-inch full-face photo in color. Print your name on the back of the photo in case it is separated from your file. Universities abroad require a photo.

Additional materials required:

• Architecture, fine arts and graphic arts majors may be required to submit portfolios.

• Students applying to music or theatre programs may be required to submit portfolios or audition tapes.

• Prospective interns also must submit a separate internship application. Your IFSA-Butler program advisor will be able to provide more information and/or forms.


Photo by IFSA-Butler student Bethany Leidl, Tufts University

The Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University (IFSA-Butler) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1988 at Butler University. Our primary goal is to provide quality study abroad opportunities, plus academic and personal support services, for qualified North American undergraduates seeking to earn academic credit through study abroad. While the Institute for Study Abroad has an affiliation with Butler University for transcripts and other purposes, it is a separate organization.

IFSA-Butler is organized to assist our students from the time they apply until after they return. Our staff in the U.S. prepare students for the academic and cultural changes that await them, and our offices around the

world provide on-site support to help students make the most of their study abroad experiences.

IFSA-Butler currently operates programs in Argentina, Australia, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Egypt, England, India, Ireland, Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Scotland, Spain, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Wales.

Institute for Study Abroad is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Contact us at:

1100 W. 42nd Street, Suite 305Indianapolis, IN 46208800-858-0229 • [email protected]

Butler University is a nationally recognized comprehensive university encompassing six colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Together, these colleges offer over 60 undergraduate majors, eight pre-professional majors and 18 master’s degrees. Around 4,700 students are enrolled at Butler, representing 45 states and 52 countries.

Approximately 77 percent of Butler students will have participated in some form of internship, student

A B O U T B U T L E R U N I V E R S I T Y

teaching, clinical rotation, research, or service learning by the time they graduate. In addition to this professional experience, Butler students develop lifelong skills in critical thinking, effective communication, cooperative teamwork and ethical decision making. Butler endeavors to prepare students not simply to make a living, but to live lives of purpose in which personal flourishing is intertwined with the welfare of others.

A B O U T I F S A - B U T L E R


71 w w w.i fsa-but ler.org M O R E C U LT U R E . L E S S S H O C K . 71

ADMINISTRATIONDr. Heather Barclay Hamir PresidentSteven Seaworth Vice President for University RelationsWarren Wise Vice President and Chief Financial OfficerErika Ryser García Executive Director of Latin American ProgramsPatti Brown Executive Director of Special Program Initiatives

FIELD DIREC TORS

Central Eastern Opal Leeman [email protected]

Great Lakes Aaron [email protected]

Iowa and Specialized Field Director for Latin America Michelle Tolan [email protected]

Mid-Atlantic Cas [email protected]

Minnesota Amy Bartnick [email protected]

Nebraska, North Dakota, South DakotaKathy [email protected]

Northeast Carolyn [email protected]

New England Megan [email protected]

South Central Ali [email protected]

Southeast, Southwest, Southern California Steve Seaworth

[email protected]

West Coast, Rocky Mountain StatesAnne Frey [email protected]

PROGRAM ADVISORSPrograms in Latin America Nikki Bruckmann [email protected] Free [email protected] Krutz [email protected] Mannweiler [email protected]

I F S A - B U T L E R A D M I N I S T R AT I O N , F I E L D D I R E C T O R S A N D P R O G R A M A D V I S O R S

NATIONAL ADVISORS COUNCIL EXECUTIVE COMMIT TEE MEMBERS David Taylor Wake Forest University (Chair)Kip Brooks Washington & Lee UniversityTheresa Cann Bryn Mawr CollegeScott Carpenter Columbia University Isabelle Crist Vanderbilt UniversityJennifer Fritz Bucknell UniversityMargery Ganz Spelman CollegeJen Hogan Drake UniversityCarol Lebold University of Massachusetts AmherstBrian Libby Tufts UniversityKristen Mallory Claremont McKenna CollegeSue Mennicke Franklin & Marshall CollegeDon Ostdiek Rice UniversityDanielle Scugoza University of PennsylvaniaCatherine Winnie Southern Methodist UniversityChristine Wintersteen Bowdoin CollegeEloise Sureau-Hale, Butler University (Ex Officio)

IFSA-BUTLER BOARD OF TRUSTEES Don Meyer, Chairman of the Board Attorney—Bose, McKinney & Evans

Adrian Beaulieu Dean of International Studies—Providence College

Gary D. Butkus Director, Health Education—Eli Lilly & Company

Dr. David M. Gray Past CEO—IFSA-Butler

Jan Kieling Administrative Director, Study Abroad (Retired) University of California, Berkeley

George Lauck Senior Account Exec.—Neace Lukens Insurance Agency

Kristopher Lichter Cofounder, Principal —DuMonde Ventures

Dr. Scott Manning Director of Cross-Cultural Programs—Susquehanna Univ.

Sy Nagorsky President—Brimin Consultants, LTD

Tom Roberts Director Emeritus—IFSA-Butler

David Taylor Director of Global Programs—Wake Forest University

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS IFSA-Butler thanks our talented student photographers for contributing to this publication!

Marin Axtell, Whitman CollegeAlicia Carter, University of DenverSohee Cha, University of PennsylvaniaMallory Combs, Depauw UniversityColleen Daszkiewicz, College of William and MaryAbbey Drake, Trinity UniversityHannah Dresdner, University of DenverAnna Ike, Davidson CollegeClaire Inselmann, Trinity UniversityAli Jawetz, University of VirginiaAnna Johnson, University of DenverLindsay Koller, University of PennsylvaniaBethany Leidl, Tufts UniversityMary Kate Long, Smith CollegeDanielle McLaughlin, University of North CarolinaBen Menke, University of EvansvilleJamie Leigh Norwood, Tulane UniversityMeredith Norris, American University Cara Pratt, Drake UniversityBen Schwed, Macalester College Meghan Webb, Colorado CollegeSierra Williams, University of Alaska

Not for sale. Printed on recycled paper using environmentally friendly ink. Please recycle by passing along to a friend or the study abroad office on your campus.

The information in this booklet was accurate at the time of printing but is subject to change.

Institute for Study Abroad ®



M O R E I M M E R S I O N

IFSA-Butler’s integrated approach to study abroad means that you can truly immerse yourself in the academics and culture of Latin America for a semester, year or summer. Our program participants get an authentic experience abroad by living with a host family and studying with dedicated, talented professors. If you want to really experience another culture, IFSA-Butler is the way to go.

M O R E S U P P O R T

Get the support you need before, during and after your study abroad experience by choosing IFSA-Butler. Before departure, we’ll walk you through every step of the application process, send all the information you need for your great adventure and stand by ready to answer your questions. While abroad, our fully staffed, on-site office will give you a thorough orientation, organize activities and excursions, and be there for any personal or academic issues that might arise. When you choose IFSA-Butler, you’ll get 360 degrees of support.

M O R E A C A D E M I C S

IFSA-Butler offers semester, year and summer study at some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in Latin America. From humanities to engineering to social sciences, with loads of specialty programs and everything in between, IFSA-Butler’s programs can meet the academic needs of just about any student. Choose from hundreds of subjects, thousands of courses and countless possibilities for your academic career.

M O R E C H O I C E S

Looking to become fluent in Spanish? Experience the Mayan culture that still thrives in southern Mexico? Study environmental science in one of the most eco-friendly destinations on the planet? Whatever your plans may be, IFSA-Butler offers countless choices to meet your academic and personal goals for study abroad. Choose your experience from 12 programs in seven countries.

M O R E E X C I T E M E N T

IFSA-Butler knows that having fun is an important part of study abroad, so each of our programs includes special student excursions and activities to help you experience the beauty, culture and excitement of the host country. Go on a turtle-saving expedition in Costa Rica; visit the world-famous vineyards of Argentina; take a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Machu Picchu in Peru. All of these are just some of the activities included in the IFSA-Butler program fee.

M O R E C U LT U R E . L E S S S H O C K .

Study abroad means pairing a great academic experience with the adventure of a lifetime. IFSA-Butler helps prepare you for the unexpected so you can make the most of your time abroad. You may be studying on the other side of the world, but you’ll feel right at home with IFSA-Butler.

W H Y S T U D Y A B R O A D T H R O U G H I F S A - B U T L E R ?


Photo by IFSA-Butler student Danielle McLaughlin, University of North Carolina

LATIN AMERIC A PROGR AMS

ARGENTINA

CHILE

COSTA RICA

CUBA

PERU

University Size:Small 5,000 or lessMedium 5,000–15,000Large 15,000+

* Internships available. See program sections or our website for details.† Volunteer and/or community-based learning opportunities available. See program sections or our website for details.‡ Summer program available. See our website or summer catalog for details.

City Size:Village 1,000 or lessSmall 1,000–30,000Medium 30,000–250,000Large 250,000–3 millionMetro 3 million+

P R O G R A M C O M PA R I S O N S

MEXICO


ECUADOR

Spanish GPA University Size City City Size

Available Terms and Application Deadlines Requirement Academic Year Semester 2 Calendar Year Semester 1

Argentine Universities Program † ‡ 4-5 semesters 3.0 Varies Buenos Aires Metro April 1 April 1 November 1 November 1

Buenos Aires Intermediate † 2-3 semesters 3.0 Medium Buenos Aires Metro N/A April 1 N/A November 1

Mendoza Universities Program † 4 semesters 3.0 Large Mendoza Large April 1 April 1 November 1 November 1


Available Terms and Application Deadlines Requirement Academic Year Semester 2 Calendar Year Semester 1

Chilean Universities Program Santiago † 5 semesters 3.0 Varies Santiago Metro April 1 April 1 October 15 October 15

Chilean Universities Program Valparaíso * † 5 semesters 3.0 Varies Valparaíso Large April 1 April 1 October 15 October 15


Available Terms and Application Deadlines Requirement Academic Year Semester 2 Calendar Year Semester 1 Environmental Studies Concentration † 4 semesters 3.0 Medium Heredia Medium N/A April 1 N/A November 1

Teacher Education in Costa Rica † 4 semesters 3.0 Medium Heredia Medium April 1 April 1 November 1 November 1

Universidad Nacional † 4 semesters 3.0 Medium Heredia Medium April 1 April 1 November 1 November 1


Available Terms and Application Deadlines Requirement Fall Spring Academic Year

Universidad de La Habana 5 semesters 3.0 Large Havana Large April 1 October 15 N/A


Available Terms and Application Deadlines Requirement Fall Spring Academic Year

Rehearsing Change † 4 semesters 3.0 Large Quito Large March 15 September 15 N/A


Available Terms and Application Deadlines Requirement Fall Spring Academic Year Mérida Universities Program † ‡ 4 semesters 3.0 Medium Mérida Large April 1 October 15 April 1 Spanish

GPA University Size City City Size Available Terms and Application Deadlines

Requirement Academic Year Semester 2 Calendar Year Semester 1

Pontificia Universidad Católica 5 semesters 3.0 Medium Lima Metro April 1 April 1 November 1 November 1 del Perú † ‡


N O T E S

Eva Lauer Colby College

Major: Global Studies and Spanish

IFSA-Butler Program: AUP in Buenos Aires

Why did you choose Argentina for study abroad?I have a friend from Uruguay who told me that she recommended Buenos Aires of all of the cities in South America. She said that it was a big and exciting city full of culture and life, so I trusted her opinion. I am very glad that I did.

What is your favorite memory of Argentina? I helped teach English at a school in Buenos Aires once a week. My favorite memory of Buenos Aires was listening to the kids run around, laughing and playing during their snack time. I wasn’t allowed to speak to them in Spanish because I was there to help them with English, so I couldn’t laugh out loud at their jokes, but I was always laughing on the inside.

How did IFSA-Butler help enhance your experience?IFSA-Butler definitely helped to enhance my experience in Buenos Aires. The program coordinated my volunteer position at Natan Gesang, which as I said was one of my favorite memories. IFSA-Butler also coordinated my internship at LEA editorial. It was a very unique opportunity for me to be able to intern in an office abroad. Furthermore, IFSA-Butler coordinated countless excursions that helped me to experience Buenos Aires. IFSA-Butler allowed me to be able to go to the theater, to kayak in el tigre, to watch a polo match, and much more.

What were you scared of before going abroad?I was scared of breaking my normal routine. At a small school in Maine, each semester I got into a very similar and comfortable routine. I was nervous about breaking that routine and needing to make adjustments.

What advice do you have for future Argentina students?Do free things! There are so many cool things to do in Buenos Aires that don’t cost a penny. Also, try not to purchase too many gifts or souvenirs because those can add up, and instead try to bring back things that are free and can still serve as tokens of your time abroad but do not cost any money.

Stephanie Kaczynski University of St. Thomas

Major: Spanish, Communication/Journalism


Why did you choose Costa Rica for study abroad?I chose Costa Rica because I had heard they spoke a pretty pure version of Spanish–no heavy accents or difficult slang. I knew it was a relatively safe country, which made my parents more comfortable with the idea of me studying abroad. I knew people who had studied in Argentina, Guatemala, and Spain, and I wanted to create my own adventure, not follow in others’ footsteps.

What is your favorite memory of Costa Rica? I loved walking through the streets of Heredia on an absolutely perfect day with no worries in the world. I loved meeting Costa Ricans, and everyone I met was friendly and welcoming. I loved all of the colors and tropical plants and happiness that seemed to radiate from Costa Rica.

How did IFSA-Butler help enhance your experience?The information booklets IFSA-Butler sent out prior to the semester were extremely helpful. It was a lot of information, at times overwhelming, but really helped to answer all of my questions and help me feel prepared for the adventure.

What were you scared of before going abroad?I was nervous about a lot before going abroad: passing classes in a foreign language, getting along with my host family, making friends with other students studying abroad, etc. It is a leap of faith to get on an airplane alone, leaving behind everything familiar to you, and arrive in a foreign country where you know no one.

What was your favorite IFSA-Butler activity/event?My favorite IFSA-Butler event was absolutely the trip to save baby sea turtles. It is something I would never have thought of doing on my own and would not have known how to organize, but thanks to IFSA-Butler I got to do something incredible that I will never forget.

What advice do you have for future Costa Rica students?I advise students to go into it with a completely open mind. Yes, you will miss your family, friends, and home culture. Yes, you will be frustrated and uncomfortable at times. If you wanted a completely normal semester you didn’t need to study abroad. The beauty of the experience is completely immersing yourself in a wonderful, welcoming, amazing culture. Speak the language, meet the people, ask questions, be out of your comfort zone, and appreciate every second because it flies by.

S T U D E N T P R O F I L E S

translations at no additional cost. Having a U.S. university transcript will make your academic career smoother, because most U.S. universities treat the Butler University transcript as transfer credit.

6 . Do you organize cultural excursions and activities? Some study abroad programs advertise host university activities and events as their own. IFSA-Butler staff abroad organize special cultural events and excursions just for IFSA-Butler students. Of course, host university activities are also available to our students and are a bonus to the IFSA-Butler cultural experience.

7 . Are your excursions and activities included in the program fee? IFSA-Butler’s program fees include all of our great excursions and activities. With the exception of a few optional excursions, we never ask students to pay additional money for events.

8 . Do I have to arrange my own housing? IFSA-Butler’s program fees always include housing, and IFSA-Butler guarantees that each student has housing with a host family upon arrival abroad.

9 . Do your programs include medical insurance? All IFSA-Butler programs include comprehensive accident and illness insurance at no additional cost.

10. Will I have an on-site orientation? IFSA-Butler won’t leave you out in the cold. Each program begins with an orientation in the host country. Our resident directors and other on-site staff organize and conduct the orientations themselves.

When you’re in the process of choosing a study abroad provider, be sure to ask all the right questions!

1. What is the academic quality of your programs? IFSA-Butler’s affiliated universities are at the top of the rankings in their countries, and some are among the highest ranked universities in the world.

2. Are all your fees listed up front? IFSA-Butler doesn’t have any hidden charges. All of our fees, plus deposits and potential supplemental fees such as meal plan charges, are clearly outlined in our program fee pages on our website.

3. Do you have scholarships? IFSA-Butler has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships over the past five years.

4. Do you have full-time staff in each host country? Some study abroad programs just give busy professors extra money to provide an occasional event or to organize a brief orientation. IFSA-Butler has offices and employs full-time staff in each country where we have programs. Our staff provide everything from thorough orientations to academic guidance to

emergency assistance.

5. Will I receive a real university transcript? Every IFSA-Butler student receives a Butler University transcript with official grade and credit

10 Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K B E F O R E C H O O S I N G A S T U DY A B R O A D P R O G R A M


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IFSA-Butler Latin America

Documents

Transcript of IFSA-Butler Latin America