merida photo
I have never felt so alive as I did when I was in Merida. Seeing the ruins, excursions to the Caribbean and just hanging out in the city were some of the best experiences I have ever had. I will never forget the time I spent in Mexico. Every day when I look at my pictures hanging on my wall, I know that the experiences and knowledge I gained will be with me forever.
– Marissa Gawloski
Susquehanna University

summer program: merida, mexico

Language and Culture

Summer 2010 Dates and Fees
Dates: May 31 - June 26
Credits: 6
Program Fee: $2,825

Dive into a Spanish language and culture immersion program in Merida, Mexico. Students of all language levels are welcome on this four-week summer program, where you are immersed both culturally and linguistically through formal classes, home stays, numerous excursions and free time to explore this wonderful colonial city.

Location
Merida is a city that boasts a rich history of the ancient Maya people. The surviving remnants of the Mayan culture can be seen today in the way people speak and dress. Mérida is also a prosperous modern city that features many museums, art galleries, restaurants, theatres and shops. From Mérida, it is possible to visit Yucatán´s most treasured Mayan ruins, a must for all visitors.

Courses
Plan to meet Monday through Thursday for instruction in intensive language instruction for 5 hours per day. The focus is on learning or improving both written and oral Spanish skills, and developing an understanding of and appreciation for the history, culture and customs of Mérida and of the Yucatan. To reinforce the practical use of Spanish, instruction will take place not only in the classroom but also in the local cafes, grocery stores, markets, theatrical and cultural events. Courses are taught by Central’s own locally appointed faculty.

Housing and Meals
Students live with Yucatecan families through Central College Abroad’s homestay program. Plan to learn or improve your Spanish, and experience traditional Yucatecan hospitality and meals throughout the week

Excursions
Hit the road with excursions that make the classroom come alive. Your program fee includes a day trip as well as two weekend trips. Enjoy a visit to the ancient Maya city, Uxmal as well an excursion to the beautiful Caribbean including visits to Chichen Itza and Tulum. There will also be countless opportunities for cultural activities in historic downtown Merida, where your courses are taught.

The program fee includes:

  • Tuition for 6 semester hours of credit (6 Spanish language)
  • Host family accommodations with full board
  • On-site orientation and oversight by Merida program director
  • Pre-departure orientation
  • Cultural activities
  • Overnight excursions
  • International Student Identification Card (ISIC)
  • Welcome and Farewell receptions
  • Transcript

Airfare is not included.
Deadline for applications: March 1, 2010. A completed application must include: application, essay, transcript, two faculty evaluation forms, dean of student life form, and study abroad approval form. Apply now
Program deposit: $500