Guadalajara, Mexico
Concentrations: Business, Law & Diplomacy
Medicine, Health & Biomedical Science
Spanish Language & Mexican Culture
Guadalajara is the capital of the Mexican state of Jalisco, on the Pacific coast. The city is one of the main centers of culture, economy, history, industry and religion in the country and exerts significant influence on the rest of Mexico.
Culture, folklore, history and gastronomy combine to make Guadalajara one great destination to study. Because of the long association with art and artists, Guadalajara was selected to become the home of the sixth worldwide Guggenheim Museum. The museum is expected to be completed by 2011.
Guadalajara is experiencing fast-growing development. Experts agree that Guadalajara has the second strongest economic potential in the country. Guadalajara is well connected by modern highways to Mexico City.
KEI students take courses at the University of Guadalajara (UdeG), the second-largest university in Mexico.
The University of Guadalajara is among the largest and most respected institutions of higher learning in Mexico. The university offers foreign students the opportunity to learn Spanish as well as acquire knowledge of Mexican and Latin American culture. Latin American studies courses include history, art, economics, literature, philosophy, etc.
Courses are offered at the University of Guadalajara (UdeG). Courses are arranged in English specifically for KEI students.
Most courses at ABS are awarded 3 credits. Program transcripts are issued by UdeG or Clark Atlanta University (accredited in the USA). Students should consult with the study abroad and/or academic advisor at their university about course selection and approval, credit transfer, and program transcripts.
Students will live with Mexican host families. Your family will provide a single or shared room with another international student, access to a bathroom. You may have some kitchen privileges to make yourself tea or a snack.
Host families are a wonderful way to discover Mexican culture from the inside. Most families will be able to speak a little English, but you are expected to communicate with them in Spanish as much as possible. Likewise, you should conform to the family's rules and expectations--you are, after all, a guest in their home.
The KEI On-Site Coordinator in Guadalajara will meet students at the airport, accompany the group during orientation and excursions, and mediate any problems or conflicts you might have. She is available at any hour by mobile phone. She has plenty of experience working with international students, so don't be afraid to approach her with questions about Mexican culture!
Each semester, KEI organizes day and overnight trips, as well as an extended excursion. During these excursions, your transportation, lodging, and any group activities are included.
KEI reserves the right to change listed excursions for destinations of equal value and interest. Excursions may change based on availability, local festivals, and interest.
