ASU's Center for Latin American Studies has received a U.S. Department of Education grant to fund the travel, food and lodging for 15 undergraduate students from communities that have not traditionally participated in study abroad programs. While all applicants will be considered, the Center is particularly interested in receiving applications from Native American and Latino undergraduate students to participate in the Center's Andean/Amazon Field School in Ecuador this summer from June 8-30, 2004 and July 2-24, 2004.

Funded under the Fulbright-Hays Groups Projects Abroad program, this competition is open to those undergraduates who desire to increase their understanding and awareness of Latin American peoples and cultures. This study abroad opportunity will highlight the indigenous Quichua-speaking communities of the highlands and Amazon basin of Ecuador, South America.

Undergraduate students will be required to enroll for both summer sessions (June 8-30 and July 2-24) and take a minimum of six credits or a maximum of fourteen combined credits from both sessions. Courses offered include various levels of Spanish and Quichua courses, and other electives.

Students selected will have the opportunity to live in an indigenous community located on the banks of the Napo River, a tributary to the Amazon River. In addition to the formal classroom instruction, students will interact with indigenous community leaders from national, regional, and local organizations. Field trips and excursions through the rain forest will be included in the program.

Students who are interested in applying must do so by May 1, 2004. They must submit a brief essay describing their reasons and motivations for seeking this study abroad opportunity and how this experience relates to their academic career and future aspirations. Two letters of recommendation are also required.

For more information, please contact Michelle Thomas, Outreach Coordinator for the Center for Latin American Studies.