ONE TO ONE SPANISH LANGUAGE PROGRAM
(Note: this program is in addition to the fully accredited Study
Abroad programs)
AIM OF THE PROGRAM
Total immersion means that the student is communicating directly
in Spanish from the first hour of class. Immersion is, undoubtedly,
both the most challenging and most rewarding way to learn to speak
a new language. This is largely due to the fact that the linguistic
shifting back and forth, which is inherent in translation, is completely
avoided. Additionally, students learn within a cultural context and
reinforce their lessons by putting what they learn into immediate
practice in their everyday lives.
METHOD
Flexibility is paramount. The Immersion Program Immersion Program
allows each student to work at his or her own pace and level with
highly qualified teachers. As true professionals, they easily adapt
their style and method to meet the individual's needs in specific
language skills. Furthermore, while taking into consideration the
student's interests, the teacher will design a virtually unique program,
that focuses on practical, real life situations, and, whenever possible,
use the city itself as a learning laboratory.
LIVING ARRANGEMENTS
It is highly recommended that Immersion Program students take the
option of home-stay during their stay in Mérida, as the experience
of living with a local Venezuelan family greatly enhances the student's
stay. Not only will the student have the opportunity to continue practicing
their Spanish outside of the class environment, but just as importantly,
will have an immediate connection to the social and cultural life
of Venezuela. Participants who prefer to make their own arrangements
for lodging are welcome to do so.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
Because each program participant's schedule will be unique, VENUSA
does not plan group activities for Immersion Program students. However,
Immersion Program students are more than welcome to join in any activities
that are held at the VENUSA. Likewise, Immersion Program students
are welcome to sign up for the various cultural activities that are
offered, through Nuevos Encuentros, to the semester and/or summer
U.S. university study abroad students. However, some of these trips
may cost extra for Immersion Program students.
CLASS SCHEDULE, PROGRAM, DATES AND DURATION
Classes will be held Monday through Friday, on a four hour a day
basis, with the exception of official national holidays. Both specific
class schedules and duration of the program are flexible, and wherever
possible, determined by the student. We do suggest, however, for students
of beginning and intermediate levels to take classes for a minimum
of two weeks.
REGISTRATION
Please register at least two weeks prior to arrival in Mérida.
It is particularly important to register in advance during the busiest
season of the year - from May through August. VEN-USA will try to
make arrangements at short notice if necessary, but the program may
not be available during peak season.
IMMERSION PROGRAM OPTIONS
1-1 Programa Español (Plata)
$180
USD weekly
INCLUDES:
- Proficiency Exam
- 1 student / 1 professor ratio
- 4 hours of daily instruction / 20 hours weekly / Monday - Friday
- Patio setting class
1-1 Programa Español (Oro)
$220
USD weekly
INCLUDES
- Proficiency Exam
- 1 student / 1 professor ratio
- 4 hours of daily instruction / 20 hours weekly / Monday – Friday
- Flexible schedule
- Patio, Private classroom or Library setting class
- Library use
- Computer Lab / Unlimited Internet / Wireless Internet access
- Full on-site support staff
- Certificate of completion (upon request)
1-1 Programa Español (Platino)
$242
USD weekly
INCLUDES
- Proficiency Exam
- 1 student / 1 professor ratio
- Flexible schedule
- 4 hours of daily instruction / 20 hours weekly / Monday - Friday
- Patio, Private classroom or Library setting class
- Library use
- Computer Lab / Unlimited Internet / Wireless Internet access
- Locker
- Wristband
- Cell Phone and Calling card (optional)
- Nuevos Encuentros membership
- Includes: dance classes, debate team, cooking nights, optional
trips, language partners, large-screen movie nights, theme parties,
etc.
- Full on-site support staff
- Certificate of completion (upon request)
Additional instruction hours available
Group class rate available upon request
Homestay
$125
USD weekly
Includes
