Semester in Ronda, Spain

  Spain

• All Other Areas: 
Ronda

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: Spring 2008: January 26 (depart U.S.) - May 30; Fall 2008: August 28 (depart U.S.) - December 22

Description: Academic Program
The Programa Internacional de Estudios de Español (PIEE) at the Universidad de Málaga in Ronda is designed for students at the beginning or intermediate level of Spanish language study seeking an intensive Spanish immersion experience. The academic program begins with a one-week orientation period to acclimate students to the customs and culture of Spain. The group spends several days in Madrid, then travels together to Ronda, visiting such cities as Toledo and Córdoba on the way.

Upon arrival in Ronda, the PIEE tests and places each student in language classes appropriate to the student's level of Spanish proficiency. Levels range from absolute beginner, to low advanced Spanish language skills. Students of all levels have approximately five hours of classes in Spanish language, grammar, conversation, and culture daily. PIEE courses are designed to help students reach a high level of proficiency in both spoken and written Spanish, as well as gain an understanding of Spanish culture and customs. Classes are taught by native Spanish speakers and include students from the United States and Europe.

Highlights: Ronda is a tight-knit, friendly community of 40,000, where students find an opportunity to really get to know Spanish people and make the town their home.

Located in the province of Malaga, in the autonomous region of Andalucia, Ronda boasts the oldest bullring in all of Europe, inaugurated in May 1785. The city consists of an old and a new part that are divided by the Tajo gorge but connected by a spectacular bridge, El Puente Nuevo. The new part of the city is a bustling commercial area centered on a busy pedestrian street called Calle La Bola, where residents conduct business, shop, eat tapas and socialize at outdoor cafes. From banks to bars, there is almost constant activity on this side of the bridge.

In contrast, the more tranquil side of town, the old part, is surrounded by a huge Arabic wall with a large, arched doorway, and is perched atop the highest point of the rocky cliffs. This area, known as the Barrio de San Francisco, hosts an open-air market every Sunday, providing residents the opportunity to stroll and shop for fresh foods and handmade crafts. This part of the city is the cultural center and the site of the Jalifa Palace, formerly the residence of Arab royalty. It has been completely restored and now houses the University of Malaga in Ronda's International Program for Spanish Studies.

Cost in US$: $9,400 (2008)

Program Fee includes: tuition and fees, room and board, program excursions, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation services, five-day travel and on-site orientation in Spain, and KU orientation.

Additional costs: Airfare, some meals during the orientation period, books, passport and visa fees, and personal expenses.

Note
All dates, costs, and program information are subject to change as necessary due to fluctuations in the exchange rate or other reasons.

Experience Required: no

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application