Inspiring, transformative, cultivating Intercultural and biophilic mindsets June 24, 2024
By Evamarie K (Sociology, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo) - abroad from 01/28/2023 to 05/11/2024 with
SIT Study Abroad: Ecuador - Development, Politics and Languages
I feel very confident in my ability to communicate in Spanish. I have made lifelong connections (program peers, local friends, and homestays). I have discovered different perspectives, alternative ways of living and knowing. Deepened intercultural and biophilic mindsets.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
This program has allowed me to grow immensely as a student. The assignments are well-thought-out and intentional, helping students to think critically and understand cultural patterns in Ecuador on a deeper level. The coursework strikes a good balance between being rigorous and inclusive of various learning styles, incorporating class discussions and journaling. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The administration of this program is fantastic. I felt that the program director, Fabian Espinosa, and the program coordinator, Sofia Tobar, always had our best interests in mind and supported us in every aspect of the experience. They were more than just professors or administration; they were mentors and confidants. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I had amazing host families! I even decided to stay a month after the program ended with one of my host families. This program is unique because you have the opportunity to live with 3-4 host families: first on the outskirts of Quito, then in the city, and lastly during the rural homestay in the Chocó Andino. This allows students to observe cultural patterns and differences even within Ecuador. The homestay coordinators are very responsive to any situations that may arise with families. Overall, having host families fosters many connections and significantly improves Spanish language skills. Additionally, during excursions, all accommodations were incredibly comfortable and located at beautiful sites. |
| * Food: |
As a vegetarian, I was able to find food to eat anywhere, and my homestays were very accommodating. Just remember to communicate your preferences. It is an adjustment from the food in the US, but well worth it. The food and restaurants during program excursions were delicious. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The program and assignments are specifically designed to foster social and cultural integration or at least to help students learn about cultural patterns and differences within Ecuador. I found the orientation to be very helpful in providing context. I also appreciated that the Spanish course was an intensive two-week program at the beginning, allowing students to first focus on communication, cultural adjustment, and improving their Spanish skills. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
During the program, I only had mild stomach aches occasionally. The program coordinator always had probiotics and other medicines on hand for this. After the program, I needed to see a doctor while still in Ecuador, and I was able to use the support system and contacts provided by the program coordinator to find a doctor. |
| * Safety: |
I felt safe here. We always had either arranged transportation or a stipend to pay for Ubers/private taxi to and from class. For me, it is always important to look out for myself and my valuables weither in Ecuador or at my home university. During orientation we were provided with advice and anecdotes regarding safety |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
As the second SIT program I have participated in, if I had to choose between the two to do again, I would choose this program. The first one was also transformative but in different ways. In Ecuador with this program, I felt as though I could truly be myself and even cultivate learning experiences for myself. For example, I had a non-traditional format for my final ISP project. I was able to use my strengths and creativity and connect it to my studies, leaving me inspired and with new ideas. Additionally, the people here are very kind, and the nature is astonishing. I actually chose to stay an extra month and a half because I couldn't get enough! |
Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
Since homestays provide food, there aren't too many living expenses. |
| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | $15 |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Remember, host families are being paid to provide you with food. If you don't feel that it is enough, reach out to the academic director or program coordinator. If you want to go to restaurants but are on a budget, plan to go once every week or two. For souvenirs, I suggest budgeting and, after spending some time in Ecuador, deciding what you want the most. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
All coursework is in Spanish. Homestays are great for language improvement. |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Intermediate |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Fluent |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | SIT Argentina Development, Politics, and Languages program |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? | |
| Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? | Always remember to make connections. Coursework is important but language is about communicating with others and talking. Wiether conversations with your host family after meals or conversations with taxi drivers, this is the best way to learn. Prioritize making connections, people in Ecuador are very kind and will typically love to have a conversation with you no matter your level. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? |
A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Forming connections is as important as coursework!!! Remember to find a balance. Look for things or self-care activities you like to do and may have more control over. For example, if you like to paint or read bring it with you. This is temporary so enjoy your time and make the most of it, it's going to be amazing I'm so excited for you. |
Reasons For Studying Abroad
| To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you. |
The Avid AdventurerThe wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal. |
