OIP's Study Abroad Fair (10/9/12) Unveils New Service-Learning and Language Immersion Program in Peru

by: Tania Rahman, CCE Social Media & Marketing Intern

Binghamton University’s Office of International Programs (OIP) is hosting a Study Abroad fair tomorrow, Tuesday, October 9th from 11am-3pm in UU Mandela Room. OIP encourages students to stop by with any questions about study abroad, whether it regards financial aid or where to get the best Nutella crepe in Florence, Italy. At the fair will be OIP staff, and similar offices from many other SUNY institutions. There will even be students who have recently returned from their study abroad trips!

Studying abroad during college has the potential to be one of the most impactful experiences in a young adult's life. Students can gain knowledge, have heartening experiences, and an overall good time when they spend a few weeks, a summer, or even a semester residing or studying in a foreign country. There is so much valuable knowledge to be absorbed from living and learning in an environment that is completely different from the ones people have grown used to. These experiences, particularly when combined with service, often contribute to personal growth and broadened horizons.  

Have you ever longed to study abroad or do service in another country? What if you had the opportunity to do so in a country that is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World?

Look no further! In partnership with the College of Community and Public Affairs and the Office of International Programs, the Center for Civic Engagement is proud to announce a new Service-Learning and Language Immersion program in Peru. After an initial application process, accepted students will have the chance to take a course at Binghamton University about the dynamics of local development in the Andean Region of Latin America. This course situates local development practice and its relationship to “sustainable communities” which emphasize the interconnection between environmental issues, economic viability, social equity as well as cultural identity.  

Following the course will be a two week trip to Cuzco, Peru, where students in the program will be a part of an exciting hands-on experience with Peruvian culture. This includes on-site language immersion and service opportunities, such as volunteering one's time at an educational center for youth and families called Corazon de Dahlia (see picture below) and providing local government bodies with aid.

A beautiful shot of the Andes Mountains:

A friendly alpaca, one of many found all over Peru:

If this experience of a lifetime sounds like it's for you, we encourage you to attend the Study Abroad Fair to learn more! If you can't make the fair, contact Kerry Cook, Study Abroad Coordinator, at kcook@binghamton.edu for inquiries about the program and applications.