Focus on Spain

  Spain

• Madrid: 
Madrid

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks and 7-12 months
Dates: inquire for specific dates

Description: Being at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Atlantic has helped Spain develop a rich culture. There are four languages spoken in the country, seven dialects, and 17 political regions (comunidades autonomas), not to mention the differing cuisines, lifestyles, and local festivals and celebrations. While Spanish is the official language understood everywhere, you'll have the extra advantage of learning the regional dialect or language of your host family and school. You'll also see the variety of the country in its buildings- from Roman aqueducts to Islamic palaces to Gothic cathedrals to medieval castles- and its music from the drama of flamenco to the melancholy lyricism of the Celtic music and gaitas (bagpipes) of the northwest. The food varies too, but you can expect Mediterranean-style dishes with liberal use of olive oil, garlic, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. Fish and seafood are abundant, but Spanish cooking emphasizes red meat and pork, which are eaten nearly every day.

Highlights: Year Program:
Your schoolwork will focus on one of three areas: science, humanities, or technology. Spanish classes are a part of each, so don't worry, you'll find time to learn your new language. Spanish schools focus primarily on academics, leaving sports and cultural activities for after school. Spanish teens often attend lectures, concerts, and sporting events- soccer being the most popular. You can also volunteer for a local community organization to make friends and learn more about the community.

Summer Language Study Program:
How about spending July in northeastern Spain learning Spanish? You'll attend a language school with other international students and staying at the Pou del Glac camp for the duration of the program. The site was formerly a country property dating back to the 18th century. Your month includes: Spanish lessons, intercultural learning, leadership training, Spanish cooking lessons, the opportunity to participate in sports, and trips to nearby towns including Barcelona!

Cost in US$: $6,900 - $10,900

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