Intern/Volunteer in Ecuador

  Ecuador

• All Other Regions of Ecuador: 
Guayaquil

Term: Throughout the year 
Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: throughout the year

Description: Volunteer or intern in Ecuador's largest city to improve your Spanish, gain rewarding and practical experience, and immerse yourself in the local culture and environment. Participants work in and around the community of Guayaquil, the largest city of Ecuador. Placements are available in Social work, Senior Citizen Assistance, Orphanages, Elementary Education, Special Education, Public Health, Dance, Sports Education, Business, Marketing, Event Management, International Business, Conservation, Farm Work, Forestry Development, Urban Development, Architecture, and Psychology.

Set near the the Pacific Ocean on the Guayas River, Guayaquil has plenty to see and do. Try a local ceviche dish and a wide variety of seafood cuisine at one of the many bars and restaurants in the surrounding areas. Stroll the Malecón (river walk), shop in the Mercado de Artesanía, dance the merengue and climb the steps in Las Peñas to see the lighthouse and a magnificent view of the city. Ecuador is home to the highest active volcano in the world, pristine Pacific beaches, and virgin tropical rainforests as well as ancient Incan history now echoed through the lively Ecuadorian culture.

Choose from a variety of placements, from practical and professional internships, to volunteerism aimed at assisting in community development. All participants receive Spanish language training during their program and previous language skills are not required to participate. Whether enjoying the breath-taking vistas of the Andes Mountains, the serenity of the Guayas River, or the rhythm of Latin music, Ecuador is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Highlights:
* Experience first hand the Ecuadorian culture by living with host families.
* Help local organizations improve the quality of life for many Ecuadrian families and children.
* Experience the rich culture and geographic diversity Ecuador has to offer.
* Gain a valuable experience in giving back to Ecuadorian communities while learning marketable skills.

"Volunteering in Guayaquil, Ecuador was a life-changing experience for me. I made a difference and it was fun and educational too. The best trip ever!" - Sashanna Saunches

Minimum Education: High School

Cost in US$: USD 1,175 (2 weeks); USD 1,875 (1 month); USD 2,475 (2 months)

Not Included: Round-trip airfare, personal expenses, some meals, airport taxes, visa expenses, daily transportation expenses.

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 16+ years old

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Ecuador Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups of different sizes

Scholarships are Available.

Application Process Involves:

• Other
• Written Application

International Education Programs's Mission Statement: International Education Programs (IEP) at Jacksonville University promotes global experiences by engaging students and faculty in study, internship and volunteer programs that will expose them to other countries, cultures, languages and people. International Education Programs (IEP) promotes cultural immersion through challenging study programs, relevant internship placements, and life-changing service learning opportunities in 19 different countries around the world. Our number one priority is to consistently offer the support services and resources that enable participants to immerse in the local culture, contribute to the local community, and learn more about themselves and the world through their travel experiences. IEP programs cater to individual needs based on desired length of stay, language competency, location, and academic discipline.

Year Founded: 2000