Washington College Adds Guadalajara, Mexico To Study Abroad Programs

Chestertown, MD, March 23, 2004 — In response to the growing demand from today's college students for global educational opportunities, Washington College has added the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, Mexico to its selection of 42 study abroad programs in 26 countries. The new program in Mexico offers students both formal studies and community outreach opportunities for an applied, engaged learning experience.

“This is a great program for students studying Spanish, international studies, business, or Latin American history and culture,” said Professor Tahir Shad, director of Washington College's International Studies Program. “Students should have some Spanish language skills before they go, but the school has a well-established intensive language program ready to prepare students for immersion in the university and the Mexican culture.”

Founded in 1935, Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara is the second largest university in Mexico and offers 50 undergraduate majors, including arts, international relations, economics, psychology, education, Spanish language and literature, law, engineering, and health sciences. Costs for the program are met for Washington College students through a prearranged tuition exchange program.

With a mix of cultural heritage and modernism, urban sensibilities and rural heritage, the university's hometown of Guadalajara is Mexico's second largest city, located in the state of Jalisco, which is known for its spring-like climate and as the epicenter of Mexican culture. Students can take advantage of Guadalajara's rich cultural resources and nearby attractions such as Puerto Vallarta, Chapala (the largest lake in Mexico), the town of Tequila, and the historic colonial city of Guanajuato.

While abroad, students have the opportunity to take a large array of subjects, not always offered at Washington College. The university's International Language Center is equipped with modern multimedia facilities for language instruction, and for students with a special interest in Spanish and Latin American culture, the Center offers several study options such as intensive Spanish courses, a Spanish and culture program, and Spanish courses for special purposes such as Business Spanish and Spanish for Physicians.

Housing for students, prearranged through the university's International Exchange Department, is with approved families who offer room and board to international students. By living with a family, students can practice their Spanish, learn more about Mexican culture, and experience first-hand a different way of life.

Interested students should contact Kelly Keer, Administrator of International and Diversity Affairs, at 410-778-7762, or via e-mail: kkeer2@wahscoll.edu.