The program offers opportunities to dramatically improve conversational Spanish skills and learn first-hand about ancient, colonial and modern societies of Mexico through travels to Jalisco, Colima, Guanajuato, Michoacan, Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca and the Yucatan. The program begins in the city of Guadalajara, capital of the state of Jalisco and a major center of folkloric dance and music. The first few days are spent getting to know each other, discussing goals and expectations, and exploring this colonial city. Students are then matched with host families and begin intensive Spanish classes in a local language institutes.
Classes are primarily one on one with native speakers.
By the end of this first two week period, students will select a placement position. In coordination with the Explorations in Travel program leader and the designated work site supervisor, students will write a work plan, including goals and objectives and a job description. Before starting the volunteer work placement, students take a break and travel through some of the natural and historic areas that surround Guadalajara and Jalisco. The travel break will offer a glimpse into the pre-Colombian and colonial history of southwestern Mexico, as well as its varied environment and geography. In the vicinity of Guadalajara, students live with host families and work at their volunteer placement sites.