Focus on Dominican Republic

  Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo

Duration of Program: 7-12 months
Dates: inquire for specific dates

Description: Its geography will impress you, its cultural legacy will enchant you, and the people of this tropical island will forever stay in your heart. The geography of the Dominican Republic is the most diverse in the Caribbean, ranging from desert plains to rainforest valleys to 10,000-foot high mountains to white sand beaches. But don't overlook its impressive historical legacy - Santo Domingo is the oldest city in the Americas. Its historic colonial quarter includes the America's first cathedral, hospital, chapel, and university. However, the true charm and beauty of the Dominican Republic is reflected in its people. You'll share their love of life and respect for traditions while experiencing what it means to feel at home in this wonderful - and welcoming - country.

Highlights: The school year runs from September through June and AFS Exchange Students will attend either a private or a public school, and study Spanish, literature, math, science, history, philosophy, and religion. There are plenty of cultural activities to enjoy, including events in Santo Domingo; the Carnaval in La Vega; hiking in Pico Duarte, the highest elevation in the Caribbean; or trips to the mountains or the coast. Your friends will most likely take you dancing, which Dominicans young and old love to do - and they especially enjoy merengue, the national dance. There are also opportunities to perform community service, as well as attend AFS Orientations throughout the year, providing you with ways to meet AFS Students from other countries.

Cost in US$: $8,900

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