high school study abroad for college credit program catalog.pdf · day 23 - 24: full day excursion...

Language Immersion

Global Leadership

Community Service

HIGH SCHOOL STUDY ABROAD FOR COLLEGE CREDIT

S PA I N

F R A N C E

I TA LY

C O S TA R I C A

C H I N A

OUR MISSIONWe believe that students who study abroad in high school develop fluency in another language and gain global perspectives that transform their lives forever. Our goal is for students to build cultural awareness, self-confidence and independence through an authentic and meaningful experience abroad.

PROGRAMS THAT INSPIRE.

Study Abroad Redefined.

YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE...Welcome Bienvenue Bienvenidos Benvenuti

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SPI ESSENTIALELEMENTS

1. HOMESTAY IMMERSIONStudents live with caring homestays in a small, manageable city where they will use their developing language skills as they safely explore and live in the local community.

2. LANGUAGE COURSES FOR COLLEGE CREDITStudents attend intensive language courses at an accredited language institute or university. Students receive an official transcript that they can use to petition for potential college credit.

3. LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY SERVICEIn addition to language immersion, SPI programs include a leadership enrichment or community service component. Through engaging group discussions, team building excursions and community service projects, students foster personal growth, leadership skills and cultural awareness.

4. TRAVEL EXCURSIONS & ELECTIVESStudents participate in excursions to sites of cultural and historic importance relevant to their host city and country. Each program RƪHUV� D� YDULHW\� RI�ZHHNHQG� DQG�GD\� H[FXUVLRQV�� as well as engaging afternoon elective activities designed to combine serious fun with once in a lifetime experiences.

5. EXPERIENCED ON-SITE SUPERVISIONSPI program directors and on-site staff are professional, experienced leaders who serve as mentors, caregivers, motivators and model immersion students. Directors conduct the entire program in the language of study.

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WHAT MAKES SPI UNIQUE?

SPI programs are designed for the student with little travel experience and the seasoned world traveler alike. Our methodology combines serious academics with engaging and meaningful hands-on cultural experiences. The traditional classroom takes a backseat to exciting activities around the city, conversations with locals and weekend journeys to places where history, art and culture come to life.

> College Credit Opportunity

> Authentic Language Immersion

> Leadership & Cultural Enrichment

> Community Service Hours

> Caring Homestay Experiences

THE SPI ADVANTAGEOur programs provide students an authentic linguistic immersion experience with cross-cultural leadership skills that help them gain a competitive advantage in college admissions and future job opportunities. Alumni families can attest to the personal service provided by our office and on-site staff through every step of the study abroad experience.

> Founded by Language Educators & Parents

> Experienced Leadership with Optimal Group Sizes

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A Teacher’s Perspective“As a Spanish teacher in 1984, I arranged my first travel experience with students, a fifteen day whirlwind European bus tour. It proved to be far from the transformative life-changing educational experience I had hoped for. The students learned no Spanish, interacted in English with other participants, and remembered none of the impressive places we had visited. I vowed to never subject my students to another “cattle drive” tour. In that moment, the seeds of SPI took root. I founded SPI with the desire to create an authentic homestay immersion experience where students would grow in their language skills, gain cross-cultural awareness and transform themselves into globally minded citizens. After my first immersion program, my students returned home speaking the language, appreciating another culture and recounting invaluable memories from abroad. It was music to my ears and food for my soul. In 2004, I handed the keys to former SPI alumnus, Jeremy Goodwin, and proudly, my mission continues today!”

A Parent’s Perspective“Most American parents are forced to ask themselves, Why

has my child taken so many years of a foreign language, yet

they still can’t speak the language? In 1996, we attended

an information meeting conducted by Rose Potter for a

month long study abroad program with our son’s high

school language teacher. We immediately knew this was

an opportunity and investment we could not afford to

pass up. Rose advocated the lifelong benefits multilingual

graduates have in their future personal and professional

lives. The experience proved to be transformative for our

son. He returned home speaking the language, gaining new

worldly perspectives and growing personally far beyond our

expectations. My advice: Don’t let your child graduate without

studying abroad!”

-Guy & Diane Goodwin, Parents of SPI Director

“SPI was a wonderful, life-changing experience. From the directors, to the classes, to experiencing the local culture, you will find yourself pushed out of your comfort zone and into a new mindset.”

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“I had the time of my life! We got to see so many sights while learning about the Spanish culture. My homestay was very hospitable and my knowledge of the language significantly increased. I couldn’t recommend this program more!”

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“ The program was FANTASTIC! I had never traveled by myself before but, right from the start, I felt very welcomed by the SPI program directors. Speaking the language is so much easier now!”

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“SPI gave me more than just a

travel experience. They gave

me a whole new understanding

of the world around me. The

bonds and knowledge I gained

were priceless.”

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Rose Potter, Founder

Rose Potter with students in 1984 Barcelona, Spain.

OURSTORY

“The language classes were tailored perfectly for everyone’s level, and the professors taught at just the right pace. I grew so much from the entire experience.”

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About SPI SpainSpain has long been one of the “go to” European countries for study abroad. From the lush Pyrenees Mountains of the north to the warm waters of the Mediterranean in the south, Spain RƪHUV� D� ZHOO�URXQGHG� FXOWXUDO� DQG� OLQJXLVWLF� VWXG\�abroad experience for high school students. SPI has selected our program destinations as ideal Spanish language immersion sights with safety, authenticity and livability at the forefront.

The core elements of each SPI Spain program include a caring homestay experience, intensive Spanish courses, leadership and elective activities, and meaningful travel excursions guided by our on-site directors.

Your Day en España8:30 Breakfast with Spanish Homestay

9:00 – 9:30 Walk or Bus to School

9:30 – 1:30 Spanish Language, Culture and Conversation Course

2:00 – 4:00 Afternoon Comida with Homestay and Siesta

4:30 – 8:00 Electives or Leadership & Cultural Enrichment Activities

8:30 – 10:30 Evening Meal & Time with Homestay or Evening Activity with Group

* Exact daily schedule confirmed on-site.

SPAIN ESPAÑA

1110

SPAIN SANTANDER

SPI SANTANDER

DISCOVER SANTANDERSPI’s longest-running program since 1996, Santander has maintained its popularity as an ideal location for students seeking an authentic Spanish immersion experience. Located along Spain’s breathtaking northern coastline in the Cantabrian province, Santander provides a truly inspiring setting with the Picos de Europa mountain range as it’s backdrop. Historically frequented by Spanish royalty, this vibrant city comes to life each summer with its many amazing beaches, boutiques, outdoor cafes and local events.

SPANISH LANGUAGE & CONVERSATION CLASSESStudents are broken up by levels, and attend Spanish language classes Monday – Friday in the mornings. The courses focus on developing Spanish communication skills by simulating real life situations through interactive class activities that include writing, oral expression, film, music, food, and literature.

> Spanish Levels 1 through AP/IB> Small class sizes> Certified native instructors with

advanced teaching degrees

LEADERSHIP & CULTURAL ENRICHMENTThe SPI leadership and cultural enrichment component incorporates unique activities, excursions and daily group discussions with a focus on team building, leadership, personal growth, travel skills and cultural awareness.

> SPI Leadership Building Seminars> European Travel Skills Workshop> Exchanges with local Spaniards> Spanish Culinary Experiences

SPI Santander Overview:Age Requirement: Grades 9 - 12

Language Requirement: 1 year of Spanish

School Name: University of Cantabria or UIMP

Total Course Hours: 40 Hours (2 Weeks) 80 Hours (Month)

Sample Electives:

Potential Excursions:

> Flamenco Dance

> Surfing

> Spanish Cooking

> Photography

> Exchanges with locals

> Madrid

> Segovia

> Bilbao

> Burgos

> Picos de Europa

> Comillas

SANTANDER SUMMER 1 & 2 ITINERARY:Day 1: Depart USA for Madrid, Spain! Madrid Extension AvailableDay 2: Arrival — Bienvenidos! Historic cultural, art and architecture tour of central Madrid!Day 3: Visit Segovia’s Roman Aqueduct & Alcázar. Travel to Santander to meet homestays.Day 4: First day of classes and afternoon orientation tour of Santander.Day 5 - 8: Spanish language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 9 - 10: Excursion to the Picos de Europa and time with your homestay and new friends.Days 11 - 14: Spanish language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 15: Last day of classes and farewell activity.Day 16: Depart Santander and stop in Burgos. Afternoon visit to El Prado museum in Madrid followed by a final group dinner at hotel.Day 17: ¡Buen viaje! Return home with amazing memories of Spain!

SANTANDER MONTH CONTINUED ITINERARY:Day 16 - 17: Excursion to Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and time with your homestay and new friends.Day 18 - 22: Spanish language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 23 - 24: Full day excursion to the nearby town of Comillas and time with your homestay.Day 25 - 28: Spanish language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 29: Last day of classes and farewell activity.Day 30: Depart Santander and stop in Burgos. Afternoon visit to El Prado museum in Madrid followed by a final group dinner at hotel.Day 31: ¡Buen viaje! Return home with amazing memories of Spain!

* Subject to change, exact itinerary online.

Prices & Dates • Detailed Itineraries • References • Galleries • And more! • Visit www.spiabroad.com1312

SPAIN SAN SEBASTIÁN

SPI SAN SEBASTIÁN

DISCOVER SAN SEBASTIÁNLocated in the lush rolling hills of northern Spain’s Pais Vasco, San Sebastián is an enchanting city where old meets new. For years, European families have traveled to San Sebastián, also called “Donostia”, to relax, surf and enjoy the city’s pristine beaches and landscape. The city serves as the capital of the Guipuzkoa province of Spain and, over the years, has evolved into a rich cosmopolitan destination ideal for Spanish language and immersion. San Sebastián will captivate and inspire you as you interact with locals or “donostiarras”, participate in a variety of cultural activities and excursions, and soak up the beauty of this unique region.

SPANISH LANGUAGE & CONVERSATION CLASSESStudents are broken up by levels, and attend Spanish language classes Monday – Friday in the mornings. The courses focus on developing Spanish communication skills by simulating real life situations through interactive class activities that include writing, oral expression, film, music, food, and literature.

> Spanish Levels 1 through AP/IB> Small class sizes> Certified native instructors with



> SPI Leadership Building Seminars> European Travel Skills Workshop> Exchanges with local Spaniards> Spanish Culinary Experiences

SAN SEBASTIÁN SUMMER 1 & 2 ITINERARY:Day 1: Depart USA for Madrid, Spain! Madrid Extension AvailableDay 2: Arrival — Bienvenidos! Historic cultural, art and architecture tour of central Madrid!Day 3: Visit Segovia’s Roman Aqueduct & Alcázar. Travel to San Sebastián to meet homestays.Day 4: First day of classes and afternoon orientation tour of San Sebastián.Day 5 - 8: Spanish language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 9 - 10: Excursion to Biarritz & St. Jean de Luz, France and time with your homestay and new friends.Days 11 - 14: Spanish language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 15: Last day of classes and farewell activity.Day 16: Depart San Sebastián and stop in Burgos. Afternoon visit to El Prado museum in Madrid, followed by a final group dinner at hotel.Day 17: ¡Buen viaje! Return home with amazing memories of Spain!Immersion Extension Available

SAN SEBASTIÁN MONTH CONTINUED ITINERARY:Day 16-17: Excursion to Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and time with your homestay.Day 18 - 22: Spanish classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 23 - 24: Excursion to nearby Hondarribia and time with your homestay and new friends.Day 25 - 28: Spanish language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 29: Last day of classes and farewell activity.Day 30: Depart San Sebastián and stop in Burgos. Afternoon visit to El Prado museum in Madrid followed by a final group dinner at hotel.Day 31: ¡Buen viaje! Return home with amazing memories of Spain!


Prices & Dates • Detailed Itineraries • References • Galleries • And more! • Visit www.spiabroad.com

SPI San Sebastián Overview:Age Requirement: Grades 9 - 12

Language Requirement: 1 year of Spanish

School Name: Tandem or Lacunza Language Institute

Total Course Hours: 40 Hours (2 Weeks) 80 Hours (Month)

Sample Electives:


> Flamenco/Salsa Dance

> Surfing> Spanish Cooking

> Photography> Exchanges with

locals

> Madrid> Segovia> Bilbao

> Burgos> Biarritz, France> Hondarribia

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About SPI FranceFrom the glitzy lights of Paris to the swanky beaches of the Cote D’Azur, France has long been considered one of the most elegant countries in Europe for studying abroad. France is a jaw dropper when it comes to scenery, culture and food. The French people have a natural je ne

sais quoi about them, and they proudly enjoy life to the fullest. SPI has selected Biarritz as an ideal program location for high school students to immerse themselves in the French language and culture.

The core elements of the SPI France program include a caring homestay experience, intensive French courses, leadership and elective activities, and meaningful travel excursions guided by our on-site directors.

Your Day en France8:30 Breakfast with French homestay

9:00 – 9:30 Walk or Bus to school

9:30 – 1:30 French Language, Culture and Conversation Course

1:30 - 3:30 Afternoon Lunch and Break


8:30 - 10:30 Evening Meal & Time with Homestay or Evening Activity with Group


FRANCE FRANCE

1716

FRANCE BIARRITZ

SPI BIARRITZ

DISCOVER BIARRITZGracefully situated on the Bay of Biscay, for centuries Biarritz has remained a luxurious French seaside town full of summertime amenities! The WRZQ� ERDVWV� VRPH� RI� )UDQFHoV� PRVW�PDJQLƬFHQW�beaches, superb cultural events and a natural French charm. First discovered as a whaling port, Biarritz grew into a popular destination for Europe’s elite thanks to empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, and other royals who frequently vacationed there. Also known as the surf capital of Europe, the town comes to life during the summer with spectacles of live music, surf and art festivals. With its small size and strikingly unique French Basque culture, Biarritz provides the perfect immersion environment for students to embrace the French language and art of living.

FRENCH LANGUAGE & CONVERSATION CLASSESStudents are broken up by levels, and attend French language classes Monday – Friday in the mornings. The courses focus on developing French communication skills by simulating real life situations through interactive class activities that include writing, oral H[SUHVVLRQ��ƬOP��PXVLF��IRRG�DQG�OLWHUDWXUH�

> French Levels 1 through AP/IB> Small class sizes> Certified native instructors with



> SPI Leadership Building Seminars> European Travel Skills Workshop> Exchanges with French locals > French Culinary Experiences

BIARRITZ SUMMER 1 & 2 ITINERARY:Day 1: Depart USA for Paris, France! Paris Extension AvailableDay 2: Bienvenue à Paris! Sightseeing tour of the history, culture and architecture of Paris!Day 3: Visit to the Eiffel Tower area. Depart for Biarritz via the TGV train and meet homestays.Day 4: First day of classes, followed by an afternoon orientation tour of Biarritz.Day 5 - 8: French language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 9-10: Excursion to San Sebastian, Spain and time with homestay and new friends. Days 11 - 14: French language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 15: Last day of classes and farewell activity in Biarritz. Day 16: Train back to Paris. Visit to Montmartre and final group dinner.Day 17: Bon voyage! Return home with amazing memories of France!

Immersion Extension Available

BIARRITZ MONTH CONTINUED ITINERARY:Day 16: Full day excursion to nearby town of Hendaye and time with your homestay and friends. Day 18 - 22: French language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 23 - 24: Excursion to the Pyrenees and Villa Arnaga, then visit Villa Arnaga and time with your homestay and friends. Day 25 - 28: French language & conversation classes. Afternoon leadership and elective activities. Day 29: Last day of classes and farewell activity. Day 30: Train back to Paris. Visit Montmartre and ƬQDO�JURXS�GLQQHU�Day 31: Bon voyage! Return home with amazing memories of France!



SPI Biarritz Overview:Age Requirement: Grades 9 - 12

Language Requirement: 1 year of French

School Name: Biarritz French Courses Institute

Total Course Hours: 30 Hours (2 Week) 60 Hours (Month)

Sample Electives:


> Dance> Surfing

> Photography> French Cooking

> Paris > St. Jean de Luz> Bayonne

> Anglet> San Sebastián, Spain> Hendaye

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About SPI ItalyBenvenuti in Italia! With centuries of history, it’s no wonder that Italy continues to be one of the most popular study abroad destinations. Italians take pride in the beauty of life, and they’ve been responsible for some of the best art, food and fashion the world has seen. Even more inspiring is the unbelievable landscape of Italy, complete with spectacular mountains, exciting cities, amazing beaches and forty-four Unesco World Heritage sites (more than any other country)! Students will experience Italy’s dolce vita first-hand on the SPI Italy program as it is designed to offer students an authentic Italian immersion experience!

The core elements of each SPI Italy program include a caring homestay experience, intensive Italian courses, leadership and elective activities, and meaningful travel excursions guided by our on-site directors.

Your Day in Italia8:30 Breakfast with Italian homestay

9:00 – 9:30 Walk or Bus to school

9:30 – 1:15 Italian Language, Culture and Conversation Course

1:45 - 3:00 Lunch and Break


7:30 - 10:00 Evening Meal & Time with Homestay or Evening Activity with Group


ITALY ITALIA

2120

ITALY SIENA

SPI SIENA

DISCOVER SIENASiena is a beautiful medieval town built upon three hills in the heart of scenic Tuscany. The summer brings a wealth of festivities to Siena such as the thrilling Palio Festival that SPI Siena participants KDYH� WKH� RSSRUWXQLW\� WR� H[SHULHQFH� ƬUVW�KDQG��Famous for its history, art, cuisine, museums and many medieval treasures, Siena has maintained a unique character and beauty that charms its visitors year round. Though small, the city has a large youthful population that creates the perfect environment for immersion into the Italian language and culture. You will have a plethora of places to explore and things to do such as socializing at local pizzerias and cafés, shopping and discovering theaters, and visiting world famous museums and art galleries.

ITALIAN LANGUAGE & CONVERSATION CLASSESStudents are broken up by levels, and attend Italian language classes Monday – Friday in the mornings. The courses focus on developing Italian communication skills by simulating real life situations through interactive class activities that LQFOXGH� ZULWLQJ�� RUDO� H[SUHVVLRQ�� ƬOP�� PXVLF�� IRRG�and literature.

> Italian Levels 1 through AP/IB> Small class sizes> Certified native instructors with



> SPI Leadership Building Seminars> European Travel Skills Workshop> Exchanges with local Italians > Italian Culinary Experiences

SIENA SUMMER 2 ITINERARY:Day 1: Depart USA for Rome, Italy! Day 2: Benvenuti in Italia with a sightseeing tour of the history, culture and architecture of central Rome!Day 3: Explore Vatican City before departing for the historic town of Orvieto, then on to Siena to meet your homestay. Day 4: First day of classes at Dante Alighieri followed by an afternoon orientation tour.Day 5 - 8: Regular morning classes followed by afternoon electives or leadership activities and excursions. * SPI Siena Participants have the very special

opportunity to experience the preparations for the

world famous Palio di Siena festivities with their

homestay and group!

Day 9: Full day excursion to Florence and the rest of your weekend with your homestay and new friends! Days 11 - 14: Regular morning classes followed by afternoon electives or leadership activities and excursions.Day 15: Last day of classes and last evening in Siena! Enjoy a farewell activity with your group.Day 16: Transfer to Rome hotel. Sightseeing and souvenir shopping before enjoying your your final dinner in Italia!

Day 17: Buon viaggio! Return home with amazing memories of Italy!Immersion Extension Program Available



SPI Siena Overview:Age Requirement: Grades 9 - 12

Language Requirement: 1 year of foreign

language, no previous Italian required

School Name: Dante Alighieri Siena


Sample Electives:


> Italian Cooking Class> Photography

> Art & Museums> Exchanges with

locals

> Rome > Palio Festival> Florence> San Gimignano

> Orvieto> Castiglione

della Pescaia

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Costa Rica has emerged as one of the most desirable Latin American destinations for students and leisure travelers alike. From the beaches of the Guanacaste Coast to breathtaking highland cloud forests, SPI Costa Rica combines serious adventure with meaningful hands-on experiences. SPI’s program destinations, Flamingo Beach and Monteverde, offer students a safe and quiet location with a typical “tico” feel that makes immersing into the language and local customs fun and easy.

The core elements of the SPI Costa Rica programs include a caring homestay experience and intensive Spanish courses coupled with community service, electives, and meaningful travel excursions guided by our on-site directors.

Your Day en Costa Rica7:30 Breakfast with Costa Rican homestays

8:00 Walk or Bus to Activity site to Meet Group

8:00 – 12:00 Electives or Community Service Activities

12:30 – 1:30 Lunch

1:30 – 5:00 Spanish Language, Culture and Conversation Course

5:30 – 6:30 Daily Group Discussion & Break

7:00 - 10:00 Dinner & Time with Homestay


COSTA RICA

2524

COSTA RICAFLAMINGO &

MONTEVERDE

SPIFLAMINGO & MONTEVERDE

DISCOVER FLAMINGO BEACHFlamingo Beach is renowned for its ideal climate, breathtakingly beautiful beaches and peaceful, small-WRZQ�IHHO��$PRQJ�WKH�ƬUVW�RI�WKH�&RVWD�5LFDQ�DUHDV�to receive international attention, the Guanacaste province has also become famous for its long life spans and high quality of life. Despite its quaint size, )ODPLQJR� %HDFK� RƪHUV� D� YDVW� DUUD\� RI� DGYHQWXUH�activities and unique cultural opportunities.

DISCOVER MONTEVERDETucked in the heart of the highland cloud forest, the towns of Monteverde and Santa Elena offer SPI participants an ideal location to experience the authentic “tico” way of life. Monteverde’s lush hills provide a breathtaking backdrop with an array of outdoor activities for students to improve their Spanish skills and immerse locally.

SPANISH LANGUAGE & CONVERSATION CLASSESStudents are broken up by levels, and attend afternoon Spanish language classes Monday –Friday. The courses focus on developing Spanish communication skills by simulating real life situations through interactive class activities that include writing, oral expression, film, music, food and literature.

> Spanish Levels 1 - AP/IB & Small class sizes> Certified native instructors with


COMMUNITY SERVICE Students engage in volunteer service work 2-3 days during the week. The community service component is designed to immerse students into the local community as they make a positive contribution.

> Home Repair> Public Works Projects> Orphanages & Youth

> Nature Park Preservation

MONTEVERDE SUMMER 1 ITINERARY:Day 1: Depart USA & Arrive in Costa Rica —Bienvenidos! Orientation welcome event and meet your “tico” homestays.Day 2: Orientation tour of Monteverde and visit to Santa Elena Cloud Forest. First afternoon of Spanish classes at CPI Monteverde.Day 3 - 6: Morning electives or volunteer service activities. Afternoon Spanish classes.Day 7 - 8: Excursion to enchanting volcano or ecological site and time with homestay.Day 9 – 13: Morning electives or volunteer service activities followed by afternoon classes.Day 14: Last day of classes and farewell activity in Monteverde.Day 15: ¡Buen viaje! Return home with amazing memories of Costa Rica!

*Summer Month (2 Weeks Monteverde & 2 Weeks Flamingo Beach)

FLAMINGO BEACH SUMMER 2 ITINERARY:Day 1: Depart USA & Arrive in Costa Rica —Bienvenidos! Orientation welcome event and meet your “tico” homestays. Day 2: Orientation tour of Flamingo Beach followed by first afternoon of Spanish classes.Day 3 - 6: Morning electives or volunteer service activities. Afternoon Spanish classes.Day 7: Visit the beautiful Rincon de la Vieja volcano and nature preserve. Day 8: Visit Tamarindo Beach and spend time with homestays and new friends in Flamingo.Day 9 – 13: Morning electives or volunteer service learning projects, followed by afternoon Spanish classes at CPI Flamingo. Day 14: Last day of classes and farewell activity in Flamingo Beach.Day 15: ¡Buen viaje! Return home with amazing memories of Costa Rica!

* Subject to change, exact itinerary online.Prices & Dates • Detailed Itineraries • References • Galleries • And more! • Visit www.spiabroad.com

SPI Costa Rica Overview:Age Requirement: Grades 8 - 12

Language Requirement: 1 year Spanish

School Name: CPI Spanish Institute


Total Community Service Hours: 20 hours (2 Week) 40 hours (Month)

Sample Electives:


> Salsa Dance> Surfing

> Cooking Class> Nature Hikes

> Santa Elena Cloud Forest

> La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano

> Tamarindo> Rincon de la Vieja> Santa Cruz & Guaitil

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SPI CHINADISCOVER CHINA5,000 years of history has made China one of the world’s most ancient civilizations. Its unparalleled growth over the past three decades has also made it a rising power and an influential country in the world. Understanding China through its language and culture is essential to embracing the future in an ever globalized world. Our unique partner program, located on the edges of the Li River in Guilin, is an ideal immersion destination in China for high school students. The program offers first-hand experience into China’s deep cultural traditions as well as its fast-changing realities as a modern society. SPI’s partner program in Guilin truly immerses students into China’s language, culture and society.

CHINESE LANGUAGE & CONVERSATION CLASSESStudents are broken up by levels, and attend Mandarin language classes Monday – Friday in the mornings. The courses focus on developing Chinese communication skills by simulating real life situations through interactive class activities that include writing, oral expression, film, music, food and literature.

> Chinese Levels 1 through AP/IB> Small class size (5-12 students per class)> Certified native instructors with advanced

teaching degrees

OUR PARTNER PROGRAMSPI’s partner program in Guilin offers a language immersion experience paralleled to SPI’s standard immersion programs around the world. The program facilitates a homestay immersion experience coupled with classes and afternoon activities that match the quality of SPI standards. For students interested in China, please contact a program advisor to request detailed information.

SPI China Overview:Age Requirement: Grades 9 - 12

Language Requirement: 1 year of foreign language, no Mandarin

Chinese experience required

School Name: SLG Guilin

Total Course Hours: 80 Hours (Month)

Sample Electives:


> Chinese cooking > Traditional brush

painting, calligraphy, engraving

> Chinese history & geography

> Chinese martial arts> Paper-cutting

> Beijing> Li River

> Yangshuo> Local Museums

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SUPERVISION & GUIDANCE

WHAT’S INCLUDED

FLIGHT INFORMATIONHOUSING

SPI SAFETY FIRSTSafety is our number one priority when selecting program sites, homestays, excursions, activities and on-site directors. All program sites and excursions are selected by our academic board based on several factors: size, safety, low crime rates, location in the country, quality of our foreign partner institutions, quality of local homestays, and many others.

DAILY SUPERVISIONSPI directors are available 24 hours a day and carry local cell phones at all times. Directors check-in with students on a daily basis in the mornings, afternoons and evenings and monitor all aspects of each student’s progress.

ON-SITE DIRECTORS & STAFFDirectors and on-site staff are professional multilingual educators and caring leaders who serve as international “moms and dads”. We maintain a highly personal student to on-site director ratio of typically one director for every eight students. Directors actively participate in all aspects of the immersion experience including helping with homestay adjustments, checking in on classes and making sure students are taking advantage of all the opportunities while abroad.

PRE-DEPARTURE> Program Advising & References

> Pre-Departure Newsletters & Updates

> Detailed Orientation Guides

> SPI World Traveler Pack + T-Shirt

> Online Student Portal & Social Media Networks

> Orientation Videos

> Flight Advising & Assistance

INTERNATIONALLY> On-site Bilingual Directors

> Airport Arrival Meet & Greet

> Teacher Travelers from Participating Schools

> Tuition and Books

> Room and Board

> Leadership & Cultural Enrichment Component

> Community Service Hours + Certificate

> Overnight & Day Excursions

> Transportation on Excursions

> Entrance Fees on Excursions

> Hotel Accommodations

> Official Transcript

> Basic Medical & Travel Insurance (policy details online)

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED> Airfare

> Spending Money – Estimated $250-$300* per week

* This estimate includes a weekly budget

for Local Transportation ($50), Elective

Activities ($100), Meals on Overnight

Excursions ($50) and Extra Spending

Money ($50-100).

SPI HOMESTAY EXPERIENCEStudents live with a roommate in a caring, local homestay that is experienced in hosting foreign students. Homestays provide a culturally and linguistically enriching experience where students engage in local customs and way of life. Keeping an open mind to trying new foods and living in a different environment than “home” is fundamental.

> Most dietary and allergy requests can be accommodated.

> Single rooms are available for an additional fee.

> Homestays provide meals, study space, linens and total immersion.

HOMESTAY SCREENINGSPI diligently screens each homestay with the following in mind: safety, location, cleanliness, desire to host students and previous experience. Most homestays have hosted students for many years with SPI and take their jobs seriously. The foreign schools also work with each family on a year round basis to ensure a positive experience. It is important to understand that most homestays come from humble means and in all shapes and sizes.

Airfare is not included in the program price for your convenience. For all programs, SPI designates an international flight on which students and teachers are asked to book. Students may purchase or use miles/points to book flights directly with the airline or through a travel agency. Please view the flight information page online for specific designated flights and deviation details.

ENROLL ONLINESTEP 1 ONLINE ENROLLMENT & DEPOSITTo secure your place in the program, complete the online application and submit your $1,000 deposit.

STEP 2 ACCEPTANCE & ORIENTATION MATERIALS$IWHU�\RX�UHFHLYH�\RXU�DFFHSWDQFH�FRQƬUPDWLRQ��you will receive a complete orientation packet in the mail along with emailed pre-departure information and reminders.

STEP 3 SUBMIT DOCUMENTS & PAYMENTSAll programs require a passport copy, flight itinerary and signed contract to be submitted electronically online. Payment extensions are

available for a fee.

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Learn Another Language, Know Another World!

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high school study abroad for college credit program catalog.pdf · day 23 - 24: full day excursion...

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