API in San Joaquin de Flores, Costa Rica: Spanish Language and Latin American Studies

Description

Specifically-designed for American students, the program at the Instituto San Joaquín de Flores offers advanced and superior level Spanish language courses along with a variety of electives including arts, literature, cultural studies, sociology, and environmental studies taught in Spanish. Students will have the opportunity to interact with “ticos” (as Costa Ricans refer to themselves) outside of the classroom by participating in community service opportunities and cultural activities.

All students enroll in 4-6 classes per semester. All students are highly encouraged to enroll in a Spanish language class. Each student’s language level is determined by a Spanish placement exam administered upon arrival by the Instituto San Joaquín de Flores.

COMMUNITY-BASED LEARNING
Advanced-level students who seek active involvement with local community members in San Joaquín are encouraged to select the Advanced Spanish Conversation course. As part of the course, students complete 20 or more hours of community service at local schools, libraries or retirement homes.

CLASSES WITH COSTA RICAN STUDENTS
High-advanced or superior-level Spanish speakers have the option of enrolling in one class with Costa Rican students per semester at the Universidad Latina de Costa Rica (UL) for no additional fee. Enrollment at the UL also allows API students to participate in sports and other activities with Costa Rican students. Subjects available include advertising, business, communications, education, law, and public relations. Students who choose to study at the Universidad Latina must submit an official high school transcript and copy of their diploma to API in addition to their college transcript upon applying. An additional fee per class is charged for students who take two or more classes at the UL.

ASVO VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Students may choose to serve as volunteers and gain valuable work experience by participating in the ASVO volunteer program. Pre-Departure Services: Advising, @api Online Resources, Orientation Materials and Support, Mobile Phone, Peer Mentors, Social Networking, Scholarships On-Site Services: Airport Reception, Resident Directors and Staff, Housing (including meals and laundry with host families), Tuition, Tutoring, Language and Culture Tools, Medical and Life Insurance, Excursions (overnight and international), Social and Cultural Activities, Welcome and Farewell Group Meals, Volunteer Opportunities Re-Entry Services: Re-Entry Materials and Support, Post-Program Evaluation, Transcript, Alumni Network and Development Opportunities