Focus on Bolivia

  Bolivia

La Paz

Durations of Program: 5-8 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Dates: Year Round

Description: Bolivia, once a part of the ancient Inca Empire, is a fascinating mix of indigenous culture and the Mediterranean culture brought by the Spaniards. On religious feast days, for example, pre-Columbian rites are practiced, and the indigenous peoples express themselves through dances and songs that blend the two cultures. Cultural diversity can be found in the three official languages spoken: Aymara, Quechua (both indigenous) and Spanish. The most developed and densely populated areas of the country are in or near the beautiful Andes Mountains. AFS Programs Intercultural hosts more than 134 students from around the world each year.

Program Description:

Make Bolivia your choice for a truly global education. Study chemistry, civics, art, geography, history, math, philosophy, physical education, and Spanish language and literature for a semester. The Bolivian school year runs February through November with winter vacation in June. Also, make new friends while enjoying Bolivia's natural beauty and history. Join the optional, popular four-day hike along the Inca trail near the end of the semester. Discover the changes in geography, climate, and vegetation from the Andes Mountains to the subtropical Yungas region. The cost of travel to this site is the participant's responsibility.

Highlights: AFS Intercultural Programs is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. AFS Intercultural Programs is a leader in intercultural learning and offers international exchange programs in over 50 countries around the world through independent, not-for-profit AFS organizations, each with a network of volunteers, a professionally staffed office, and headed up by a volunteer board.

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview Required
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit DebriefingAbroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home
• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

AFS Intercultural Programs's Mission Statement: AFS Intercultural Programs is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. AFS Intercultural Programs is a leader in intercultural learning and offers international exchange programs in over 50 countries around the world through independent, not-for-profit AFS organizations, each with a network of volunteers, a professionally staffed office, and headed up by a volunteer board.

Year Founded: 1947