Study abroad and internships
Honors College Seminar Abroad : Spring 2010
HONR 370: Crossing Borders: Latino Immigration and the U.S.
Towson Classroom (required)
In this course, students will strive to better understand Latinos and Latino immigration to the US. During this course, students will be reading critical materials, sharing experiences, following issues related to immigration in the mass media, and reading stories of Latino immigrants. Students will also spend time interacting with the local Latino community through interviews and research projects.
In addition to the classroom, students will travel to Cuernavaca, Mexico during the week of Spring Break (see details below). During this visit to Mexico, there will be opportunities to understand the issues of immigration already explored in the readings, discussions and interviews. Students will learn about the Mexican perspective on immigration to the U.S. and will explore, in particular, the issue of trans-nationalism through interviews with immigrants who have returned to Mexico from the U.S. and families of those who currently reside in this country.
Study Abroad (required)
This 10 day program is based in Cuernavaca, Mexico. Known as the City of Eternal Spring, Cuernavaca enjoys year-round semi-tropical weather and is about a one-hour drive south of Mexico City. Students will study the local language, culture and issues of immigration. Highlights include excursions to relevant sites and home stays with Mexican host families.
Language Study:
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Students will study Spanish at the level appropriate to their experience for 15 hours at the Spanish Language Institute.
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Students will participate in language enhancement activities sponsored by the Spanish Language Institute, including visits by local musicians and artisans.
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You are not required to have any proficiency in Spanish in order to participate.
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Multiple opportunities for language and cultural exposure will be available through participants’ home stays with Mexican families and excursions.
Interviews and Discussions: In Mexico, you will participate in interviews with:
Immigration Seminar:
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Dr. Leigh Binford, an expert on immigration from Mexico to the U.S. and Canada, will lead two days of seminars and discussions on the history of immigration, the impact of U.S. legislation on immigration patterns and its effects, and the importance of remittances on Mexico
Excursions:
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Explore Mexico City (the Museum of History and Anthropology, Zócalo, Templo Mayor, Cathedral and Presidential Palace, the Ballet Folklórico and the Guadalupe Shrine).
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Visit the indigenous farming community of Xoxocotla, the Pyramids and historic site at Teotihuacan, as well as Taxco (Santa Prisca Church and markets).
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Participate in a walking tour of Cuernavaca during which you will visit the Cortés Palace, Jardín Borda, Cathedral and Brady Museum.
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Visit a local charity, “Vamos” that works to meet the educational and medical needs of children.
The Spanish Language Institute
The Spanish Language Institute (SLI) will serve as the headquarters for the seminar. Towson University has conducted numerous successful study abroad experiences through the Spanish Language Institute since 2000. See SLI’s website at: http://www.spanishincuernavaca.com
Instructor: Dr. Colleen Ebacher, Associate Professor, Foreign Languages, LA 4139
Housing: In Mexico, students will live with a host family that provides 3 meals a day and accommodation in a shared double room. Single-occupancy rooms are available for an additional fee.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2009.
Application Process: Must be a TU Honors College Student in good standing. Fill out the application (PDF) and submit it to the TU Study Abroad Office. $250 deposit required at time of application.
Cost: $2,000 includes academic credit, health insurance, roundtrip airfare, housing with a local Mexican family, 3 meals a day, and excursions. Additional costs include $150 study abroad fee and personal expenses.
*The Towson University Study Abroad Office reserves the right to make any necessary changes including adjustments in cost in the event that unforeseen circumstances arise.
Scholarship Application Deadline:
- TU Study Abroad Scholarship Application Deadline: October 15, 2009 by 5 p.m.
For further information: Contact the Honors College, 410-704-4677.
Honors College
Stephens Hall, Room 302
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Phone: 410-704-4677
Fax: 410-704-4916
E-mail: honors@towson.edu
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