Description

The Napo Program is a tremendous opportunity for students to gain coursework and work experience through partnerships with NGO's, local institutions, and Kichwa communities in Amazonian Ecuador. On this program, students will fulfill requirements for their various majors that require Spanish coursework while making a difference as partners in community projects.

Our host community, which borders the Llanganates National Park, is a rural rain forest setting with a rich ancestral culture and unique way of life based on living in close association with the natural environment. Our program and its partners emphasize cultural exchange and the sharing of ideas in learning and work projects. During our stay, students will partner with experienced mentors and learn firsthand about the issues and needs of grass-roots communities in Amazonia and Latin America in general. Opportunities include but are not limited to teaching English, cultural and/or environmental research, agroforestry, ecotourism, construction, and fair trade.

Excursions include: a hiking/camping trip in the primary forest, Napo river white-water rafting, visits to fair-trade tea and chocolate factories, the capital city Tena, local government offices, bilingual intercultural schools, a canoe trip to a wildlife refuge on the Arajuno river, and day trips to various indigenous communities and eco-reserves.

Eligibility
This program is open to all interested students. Students must have a basic knowledge of Spanish. International Programs advises students to meet with the Program Leader prior to applying to the program. The USD100 application fee is nonrefundable.

Housing
Students will stay in an eco-lodge in a Kichwa community as well as overnight stays with selected Kichwa families.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

• Culture
• International Relations
• Latin American Studies
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

USD 4,995 (4 weeks)

Program Fees Include:

Fee includes: The fee includes all registration and instructional costs for up to 6 undergraduate credit hours; housing; all meals (with family); program cultural excursions and activities; health insurance; international student ID card; full-time academic and administrative support; T-shirt.

Not included: The fee does not include round-trip international airfare; passport; books and supplies; personal travel/activity/spending money; class-related performances and events; university-assessed per credit hour technology fee.

Experience Required

no

This Program is open to

American and Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Scholarships are Available

Please e-mail for more information.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Physical Exam/Health Records

Typically The Application Process Time is

7 business days

The Florida State University International Programs's Mission Statement

The Florida State University International Programs is committed to providing a quality international learning environment where students are challenged to be learners, leaders, achievers and contributors within a global community. In the twenty-first century students must be able to understand and perceive global change, and we are dedicated to exposing them to international cultures, lifestyles and languages.

Year Founded

1957