AFS Year and Semester High School Abroad in Chile
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About
Discover the southernmost country of the world or, as Pablo Neruda once wrote, the country made for poets. From flamingos inhabiting the world's driest desert in northern Chile, to penguin colonies indigenous to the southern Patagonia region, Chile's natural wonders will enchant you.
You'll experience the towering beauty of the Andes as you arrive in Santiago, the capital and largest city in Chile. Chile is renowned for its idyllic Lake District, dotted with snow-capped volcanoes and crystalline lakes. You will learn about Chilean culture by sharing your host family's special traditions. Local traditions are best reflected in the many festivals that take place around the country, such as the Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day).
Memories are waiting to be made as you sit in an outdoor cafe, munch on empanadas, and get to know your new friends. Chile is an ideal place to step outside of your comfort zone, become a cultural insider, and engage in an exciting new adventure.
Summer Homestay: This seven-week program is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the lifestyle and culture of Chile. Spend your summer in the Southern Hemisphere, living with a host family and learning about Chilean life and culture. There will be an emphasis on engaging with your host family and taking part in their daily activities.
In their spare time, young Chileans like to get together at friends' houses or go to movies. They also like to gather in the town square, go to parties and dance, or just hang out in the local café. Your host school may offer some after school activities that you can get involved with. Lunch is the main meal of the day and usually includes meat (beef, lamb, pork or chicken) or fish with rice or pasta and vegetables. Between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. most people have a meal called onces, where tea or coffee is served with bread and butter or marmalade and possibly cakes or some other kind of pastry.
- Immerse yourself in Spanish – the best way to become fluent.
- Make connections and memories you'll never forget with other AFS exchange students from all over the world.
- Live with a host family to deepen your immersion and connection to Chilean culture. If you’re like most AFSers, you won’t want to leave this second family and home.
- Catch a glimpse of a variety of landscapes, from rugged mountains to deserts, swamps, and beaches. You might even pass by Mapuche men (the indigenous people of Chile) playing chueca, an ancient game like hockey!
- Become a global citizen. Gain intercultural communication skills. Build your college and career resume. Help create a more peaceful, understanding world.