In today's world stepping out of your comfort zone to explore new horizons is a valued characteristic among college and career candidates. Volunteering or interning abroad certainly lend themselves to enhancing individual marketability as participants are challenged to go beyond their comfort zone to expose themselves to the history, customs, and traditions of another country and its people. Those, however; are only a few of the learning benefits that come with obtaining a genuine cultural immersion experience. Language is another important element, and it goes a long way in bridging understanding as well as providing a valuable skill that can be applied throughout participants' academic and professional careers.

In recognition of this need, AMPED, in cooperation with its local partners in Latin America, is pleased to offer participants the opportunity to learn Spanish from qualified, native Spanish speaking instructors, at no additional cost.

In addition to the daily interaction with project staff, host families, and the community, participants can reinforce and improve their Spanish through our small group Spanish classes targeted to their individual skill level.

Upon arrival, participants are given a Spanish diagnostic to assess their skill level and appropriate class placement. Basic to Advanced level placements are available.

Each day, Monday through Friday, participants will attend Spanish classes for 2 hours (a total of 10 hours per week for up to 12 weeks.) Classes are arranged around participants' volunteer assignments so there are no schedule conflicts to worry about.

While participants' Spanish skills are sure to improve, AMPED makes no claims that individuals will attain a certain level of fluency as the level of progress varies from person to person according to individual learning pace.