Mexico F.A.Q.
- Can I go if I don't speak Spanish?
- Yes. The Multicultural Center will place you in the appropriate classes according to your level of proficiency.
- What are my assignments?
- Students are required to participate in the online portions of the course before and after the trip. There is no online component for the week in Mexico as you will participate in the language classes in Cuernavaca and explore during that week. There are discussion forums each online week and two written papers.
- Am I graded only on my Spanish speaking skills?
- No. You will be graded on papers you write covering the historical and cultural aspects of your trip. You are expected to attend the language classes, but your grade is not based on your language proficiency.
- Am I in class during the entire trip?
- Classes run from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students are encouraged to go on excursions after school and on the weekends.
- Should I bring my laptop?
- This is a personal choice. The school does have computers available for students to use email.
- What is Cuernavaca like?
- Cuernavaca, located about an hour south of Mexico City, has a very mild climate with year-round temperatures averaging 75 degrees. The lush green surroundings lend to a friendly, relaxed and easy-going atmosphere.
- Do I have to travel at the times scheduled?
- Yes.
- Can my significant other come with me?
- Yes. He/she may accompany or join you in order to study or simply to enjoy the adventure.
- Can I bring my children?
- Yes, there are two children's programs available during the day. There is a Spanish language program for infants through age seven and another for children 8-12 years old. Inquire about tuition schedule for children.
- How will I get to Cuernavaca?
- You will fly into Mexico City and board a bus provided by the Multicultural Center that will take you to Cuernavaca.
- Do I need a passport?
- Yes.
- Can I use U.S. dollars?
- Yes, you can. However, once you arrive in Mexico, you will need to change your dollars into pesos because the exchange rate is usually better and very few people use U.S. dollars in Mexico. Many places accept credit cards and travelers checks; ATMs are also available at local banks.
- Where will I stay in Cuernavaca?
- You will live with a host Mexican family that is arranged through the Multicultural Center.
- Are all the houses the same?
- All of the houses have been approved by the school. While all of the houses are not the same size or have the same amenities, they are all clean, provide students with clean towels and sheets weekly, and have bottled or purified water.
- Will I be with other students?
- You may request a specific housemate. If you do not, we can request that you be housed with another English-speaking student. Often, housing will include students from a different school who are also attending the Multicultural Center.
- Will the host family prepare special meals for me?
- No, but they will try to accommodate special requirements if you are a vegetarian or have allergies.
- What should I wear?
- Casual, comfortable clothing- walking shorts, t-shirts, good walking shoes.
- Is there any place to work out or play golf?
- Yes. There is a health club within walking distance and Cuernavaca is well known for its beautiful golf courses.
- Will my host family speak English?
- The level of English-speaking proficiency varies by family. The families and students are encouraged to speak Spanish to further your learning. However, all of the families are familiar with English-speaking students and thus, you will be able to communicate.
- Do the people in Cuernavaca speak English?
- Unlike the border towns, the primary language in Cuernavaca is Spanish. A few speak English very well, while others speak little or none. The benefit is that you will be immersed in the culture and encouraged to speak Spanish.
- Is Mexico dangerous?
- Some areas may be considered dangerous. Cuernavaca has a very low crime rate. It is recommended that you use caution and common sense, just as you would when traveling to any foreign country or large city in the U.S.
- Can I drink the water in Cuernavaca?
- It is not a good idea to drink the water. Bottled drinking water is readily available and all of the host families provide purified water.
- What if I get sick?
- There is full-time medical staff available at the school. Check with your health care provide for medical care provided out of the country. Should you experience a need for extended health services or hospital stay, you will be expected to pay cash for services.
- Do I need electrical adapters for my blow dryer?
- The host families have homes that are equipped to handle your electrical appliances.
- Should I rent a car?
- No, it is not necessary. And, unless you are experienced at driving in Mexican cities, we do not recommend driving in Mexico. If you are not within walking distance of the school, transportation is provided. During your free time, taxis and buses are the common means of transportation.
- How much does the trip cost?
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- $1062 Ashford Tuition for LIB 380. Financial Aid can be used for this expense.
- $335 Registration fee and 30 hours of Spanish/culture classes in Mexico. $100 of this is due at registration (non refundable). You will need to pay the remainder directly to the Universidad International.
- You will be responsible for your airfare to Mexico City. This expense will vary based on your departure city.
- $32 per day for room and board. The Universidad International will place you with a local Mexican family who will provide you with three meals a day and transportation to and from UI each day. You will have a private bedroom and bathroom in the home. These fees are also paid directly to Universidad International.
- Play Money. There are additional costs for various excursions and events. You determine your level of participation which will determine your costs.
- Can I use financial aid to cover the cost of these courses?
- If you are an undergraduate student, it is likely that financial aid will cover the cost of your Ashford tuition only.
- Registration closes on May 15, 2010.
- DO NOT PURCHASE PLANE TICKETS PRIOR TO THIS DATE. YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED WITH MORE TRAVEL DETAILS AT THAT TIME.