Interns are joined by naturalist guides as they hike in the Andes and explore this spectacular area. They also have the opportunity to apprentice to local weavers and explore the famous artisan market of Otavalo. They learn about environmental issues that confront Ecuador today and environmental education activities to be used during their teaching placements. During this primary program component, two interns are placed together in a rural village. The Global Routes in-country director meets with interns on a regular basis to provide support.
Interns develop a working rapport with their students and their mentor teacher.
They identify educational needs and ways in which they can be most helpful. As mentioned above, two interns live and teach in the same community, but each intern lives with a separate family. Living with a family in rural Ecuador means giving up several of the comforts and conveniences to which you might be accustomed, such as electricity, indoor plumbing and familiar foods. You might find yourself washing clothes with water from a well, cooking over a fire and discussing politics and philosophy by candlelight. The experience can be frustrating, rewarding, challenging and amazing all at the same time.