Summer Study Abroad Program in Guatemala

May 16, 2008 - June 20, 2008

Program

Students will enhance their skills in the provision of social work services to Latino clients through participation in activities to 1)learn/enhance Spanish language skills 2) learn and experience the socio-cultural environment of Guatemala and 3) learn participate in social service responses and solutions in Guatemala for Guatemalan clients. The program is designed for social work majors or minors or students in related fields. Course work is combined with a service learning placement.

It is estimated that 80% of the population of Guatemala earns about a dollar a day. Discussion in the program will explore the link between poverty and health, child welfare, education and other consequences. In addition, we will explore the lingering effects of the Civil War, discrimination, and ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Stan (2005).

Program costs for 2008: $2800, plus airfare.

Location

Lake Atitlán is one of the most majestic and scenic spots in all of Latin America. Ringed by dormant volcanoes and about a mile in elevation, Lake Atitlán was formed out of an ancient volcanic basin. Dotting the shores of the lake are a dozen small villages inhabited by the contemporary descendents of the ancient Maya. This area is one of the best places in the country to learn about this amazingly durable and vibrant Mayan culture.

Panajachel is the largest town with a population of 8,000 and is the headquarters for the program. The view of the lake from Panajachel is magnificent and attracts many tourists.

Students will explore the area during the program, as the program will focus on the impact of a variety of social welfare issues on the cultural, social and physical environment in the communities around Lake Atitlán.

Courses

As a major component of this program, all students will spend four hours each afternoon working one-on-one with a Spanish language teacher. Mornings will be spent at service-learning placements, visiting local agencies, listening to guest lecturers, or working on projects for class. Students earn 6 hours of social work class credit at either the BSW or MSW level.

SW 495/595 Special Topics in Social Work (3 CH)
This course enhances students' preparation as a competent social work practitioner in both domestic and international arenas of social welfare.

SW 498/630 Independent Study in Social Work - Service Learning/Research in Guatemala (3 CH)
Students will spend time each week as part of a service learning work experience in a governmental, non-governmental, neighborhood or community organization. Students will spend time each day with direct hands-on experience, learning in the agency or organization. An account of this experience will be required via a reflective journal.

Housing & Meals

During the program each student will be housed with a Guatemalan family in the communities around the lake. Students will receive lodging, breakfast, lunch, and dinner and laundry services. Families help students learn Spanish and establish networks in the community.

During excursions students will lodge in hotels, two to a room, and a meal allowance will be provided.

Excursions & Events

The group will have a three-day field trip to Antigua, the beautifully restored colonial capital. While in Antigua, we will participate in a service project at the God's Child Project, a program which provide services for low-income children and adults.

Financial Aid

Financial aid may be available to help qualified NC State students meet the expenses of NC State study abroad programs. Students from other institutions should contact their home institution study abroad and financial aid offices for information.

Resident Faculty

The Guatemala program is led by NC State faculty Linda Williams, BSW Program Director, in the Department of Social Work.

For further information contact:

Prof. Linda Williams

Department of Social Work

Phone: (919) 513-1989

Linda_Williams@ncsu.edu (preferred means of communication)