Amizade Update
February 2009
Spend the Fall 2009 Semester in Bolivia or Brazil
Amizade partcipants often remark on the deep personal impact of spending just a few days or weeks living and volunteering in a developing community. These all-too-brief experiences shape the thoughts and actions of many volunteers for years to come. Fortunately, Amizade is offering the chance to extend your study-abroad experience by spending a full semester this fall in either of our South American partner sites -- Bolivia or Brazil.
Students in our Bolivia semester are based in Cochabamba, the country’s third largest city located in the breathtaking highlands, and enroll in “Indigenous Politics, Service, and Development” – a program that offers an invigorating combination of Spanish language learning, local service, and an exploration of the history and contemporary politics of indigenous movements and development. During the semester, you will earn 15 academic credits in History, Spanish, and Political Science awarded by West Virginia University and complete an additional 12+ hours of community service a week in your choice of several service organizations that work with children, disabled youth, or the elderly; or organizations working in sustainable development and environmental advocacy.
Brazil semester students are based in Vitoria, a modern city on the stunning Atlantic coast, and examine theoretical and historical perspectives on international and regional political and economic concerns, focusing on the role of community development in the region in the program "International Development, Global Service, and Contemporary Issues in Brazilian Society." As a semester student, you will enroll in five individual courses that collectively earn 6 credits in Political Science, 6 credits in Portuguese language, and 3 credits Sociology through West Virginia University. In addition, you will complete 12+ weekly hours of community service with your choice of several social service or environmental organizations. .
Students in both courses live with local families in home stays that allow for deeper language learning and understanding about local life and culture. As a Bolivian semester student, you will have the opportunity to experience both the urban and rural aspects of the region with field trips and excursions to regional cities, Inca ruins and local festivals. Students in Brazil explore the country and culture through excursions and community events, including trips to the Brazilian Amazon; the Pantanal – the world’s largest wetland; and Bonito, the site of crystal clear waters ideal for snorkeling and exploring exotic caves.
Visit our website for more information and to access instructions for application. We welcome your questions and comments by email (volunteer@amizade.org) or phone (304.293.6049).