Chile: Political Systems and Economic Development

Homestays

"I had a wonderful host family experience. They treated me so well and really made my experience in Chile wonderful."

Program alum

Students on this program have two homestay experiences: an eight-week homestay in Santiago, and a shorter rural homestay with an indigenous Mapuche family in Valle de Elicura. In addition to practicing their Spanish language skills, students will gain insight into the rich cultural dynamics of each family and experience the contrasts between urban and rural lifestyles.

Santiago Homestay
During their time in Santiago, students stay with host families and experience urban life in Chile's fast-paced modern capital city. Host families offer valuable insight into the impact globalization is having on professional urban lives and on their cultural identity. Most homestay families live in residential neighborhoods outside of downtown Santiago, approximately 30 minutes from the SIT office site.

Valle de Elicura, Chile - photo by Matt Hintsa

Mapuche Homestay
While visiting the Mapuche territory in southern Chile, students spend a few days living with rural indigenous families in Valle de Elicura. In contrast to the urban lifestyle found in Santiago, students will experience the slower pace of rural life in a community with only a few hundred families. They will observe the strong social and cultural bonds within a Mapuche community that is dependent on agriculture and on the collective hard work of its residents. During this period, students will explore Mapuche culture, including cultural preservation and history, as well as the impact of megaprojects, such as hydroelectric dams.

Other accommodations during the program include hostels and small hotels.

Credits: 16

Duration: 15 weeks

Program Base: Santiago

Language Study: Spanish

Prerequisites: Coursework in economics, political economy, or development studies; 3 semesters Spanish Read more...