VCU Education Abroad Faculty-led Summer Program in Guatemala (Health Care)

  Guatemala

Antigua

Term: Summer 
Dates: June 6 - June 27

Description: The VCU School of World Studies, the Department of Biology and the Office of International Education at Virginia Commonwealth University are pleased to present a three-week opportunity for participants interested in international health care, Spanish language and Guatemalan culture. This three-credit program is designed for pre-medical, pre-dental, and pre-nursing students as well as public health providers, and recent graduates from medical, dental and nursing programs.

Course and credit options: 3 VCU credits
Undergraduate students will enroll in HUMS 391 while graduates will enroll in HUMS 591: Health Care and Culture in Guatemala.

Course description: The program will focus on an overview of the Guatemalan health care system, medical Spanish, alternative Mayan medicine (ethanobotany, midwives, bonesetters, and shamans), and Mayan culture (past and present; Atitlan, Iximche, Maximon). Students will take language classes in the mornings and participate in health care activities in the afternoon either at Nuestros Ahijados School and Clinics or at Obras Sociales del Hermano Pedro Health Center or similar clinic.

Highlights: Several afternoons per week will include cultural excursions near Antigua. The surrounding countryside is perennially green and filled with flowers, volcanoes, lakes and Mayan villages. Guatemala is an ethnic kaleidoscope. The dominant culture speaks Spanish, proudly tracing its roots to the Colonial period. Over half the inhabitants are Mayan Indians who preserve the ancient traditions of their languages, weaving and arts.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: 1,375

*Accommodations
*Most meals
*Study visits and tours
*Excursions
*On-site Program Director support
*Application fee and deposit
*Pre-departure orientation
*VCU administrative fees
*International Student Identification Card

The following are NOT included in the program fee. Students are responsible for:

*Airfare
*VCU tuition and fees
*Some meals
*Passport application fee
*Personal expenses during the program
*Anything not specifically mentioned above

Please budget for these additional expenses.

Experience Required: yes

Student must have a minimum 2.0 GPA to participate in this program.

This Program is open to American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves:

• Essay
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Transcript

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home