Study abroad program aims to change Peru's fortunes

For centuries Peru has been one of the most poorly educated and poverty stricken countries in the world. However, a study abroad program is changing Peru’s future while giving students an invaluable global experience.

“What differentiates us between us and other programs is that we not only study their culture and history but work side-by-side with Peruvians,” said Carmen King, a lecturer with ASU’s College of Letters and Sciences. “We place students in key posts in the fields of education, health and social work, and this affects very positive and measurable outcomes.”

Peru’s current economic and social climate and its industrial history will be discussed at an upcoming informational session for a summer study abroad program. The session takes place at 6 p.m., April 8 at UCENT, 411 N. Central Ave., Room 361. Deadline for enrollment is April 1. Students should contact Dr. King before this date to ensure their space is reserved.

The program is geared toward all ASU students, but is also accepting students from other institutions, who wish to polish their Spanish language skills and broaden their cultural competence.

The academic program takes place from June 4 to July 30, 2011, during which students will spend eight weeks in Peru. Students will live and work side-by-side with local inhabitants in Cusco, the sacred city of the Incas. They will also enjoy several academic and cultural excursions to Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and Puno, as well as the Sacred Valley. This program is open to any student that has completed SPA 202 with a grade of “C” or better or receives permission from the program director.

The fee for the Summer 2011 program is $3,985 and includes lodging, three meals a day in Cusco, all transportation, lodging and entrance fees to group academic and cultural excursions, international medical insurance and airport transfers to and from the Cusco airport. The program has a limit of 15 people.

For more program details, updates and application procedures, please call (602) 496-0638 or visit: https://studyabroad.asu.edu/?go=Peru