Gap Program in Mexico: Arts, Culture, and the Coast

  Mexico

• Oaxaca: 
Oaxaca

Term: Throughout the year 
Dates: Start any Monday!

Description: The city of Oaxaca, located in the central valley of the state, is surrounded by the states of Puebla, Veracruz and Chiapas and the Pacific Ocean to the southwest. With its ethnic, cultural and historic richness, Oaxaca is an ideal place to experience the beauty of Mexico and its people. The city is known for its creative, talented artists and many different types of artisans. The artists use everything from clay and fabrics to leather, iron and jewelry.

The campus is located in the heart of Oaxaca's Historical Center, two blocks from the beautiful Santo Domingo convent and 4 blocks from Oaxaca's Zocalo (downtown square). The language institute is surrounded by cafes, art galleries, museums, shops and internet cafes. Set in a typical colonial building, it has a large main patio where students get together during the breaks. This old style construction with thick colonial walls keeps the classrooms cool throughout the year.

You can begin your studies at the school any Monday of the year and stay for as many weeks as you like. After completing a placement test on your first morning on campus, you will be placed in a class with students at your level. Classes meet for three 50-minutes sessions per day in small groups of no more than five students per class. A course that includes five classes per day is also available, call for details!

Deepen your understanding of the Spanish language and the Mexican culture by living with a local host family. Families are carefully selected and all homes are within easy walking or public transportation distance of the language institute. Your host family will provide breakfast for you each day. Dinner can be arranged at $21 per week.

Highlights: Andeo International Homestays offers individually customized Gap programs. Begin your program any Monday of the year, stay for four weeks or several months, and combine two or more programs in different countries! You can further enhance your Gap experience by including a volunteer or cultural activity. There are dozens of options - the choice is yours. We will work closely with you to design the Gap program that best fits your goals and interests.

The language institute we work with in Mexico also has campuses in Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta. These locations offer the same great classes and homestays, plus fun optional activities like scuba diving certification, kite surfing and Salsa dancing. Choose one location, or spend a month or more at each! Program prices are slightly higher at the coast locations.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Minimum Education: High School

Cost in US$: $3,950 for 12 weeks; 4 weeks to 12 months possible

Credit Available: yes

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Mexico Independently

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Andeo-International Homestays's Mission Statement: Andeo-International Homestays is a non-profit organization specializing in short-term homestay programs since 1981. We design programs for students, teachers and families who are excited about developing friendships that span the globe. We work with carefully selected foreign organizations that are experienced and respected in the areas of homestays and exchange programs. Together, we coordinate all of the elements essential to a successful homestay: careful selection and matching, preparation, support and follow-up. We offer summer immersion homestay programs for high school students in Spain, France, Mexico, and Germany. We also offer programs that combine a homestay with classes, volunteer opportunities and activities in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Spain, France, Germany and Japan. No matter which program you choose, you are sure to discover a world of new friends and adventures!

Year Founded: 1981