Semester: Valladolid
Semester Abroad in Valladolid
Valladolid, the former capital city of Spain, is rich in history, wine, agriculture, and nightlife. Located on the Castilian Meseta with a population of 400,000, the city is ideally suited as a center for studying the language and culture of Spain.
OVERVIEW
Valladolid is known as the area where the purest “Castellano” form of Spanish is spoken. Here you will be truly in the heart of Spain, immersed in the Spanish culture in a way that many visitors never experience. Valladolid is a charming city that is easily explored on foot, which is the best way to discover all that it has to offer.
QUICK FACTS
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Language Requirement: 2 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent
GPA Requirement: 2.5 GPA
Housing: Host family
Volunteer and internship opportunities available
APPLICATION PROCESS
Apply
Begin your journey. Start your application now and you'll be on your way before you know it.
Explore
Get ready to explore. Open your mind to new opportunities and experiences in your host community.
Transform your world
Learn, change your perspective, and return home as an engaged and informed global citizen.
YOUR EXPERIENCE
Here are a few important details about what you can expect from a semester with Amizade in Valladolid.
ACADEMIC
The Amizade-Universitas professional and academic team is composed of highly qualified professors and researchers in the field of Hispanic studies, from both foreign and Spanish universities, and study abroad staff dedicated to student learning. Modern classroom spaces in a historic bull-fighting ring help students connect to Spanish history and modernity in and outside of the classroom.
Universitas Castellae is a specialized educational center in Valladolid that is dedicated to the study of Spanish language and Hispanic culture for students from the U.S. and around the world. Our academic program includes advanced Spanish language, literature, art, history, culture, and various courses in the social sciences. Universitas is located in the very heart of the city of Valladolid, with classrooms and office space located in the historic and culturally significant Plaza del Viejo and also in the nearby Calle Concepción. Amizade-Universitas course offerings are divided into three main areas: Spanish Language Courses, Humanities Courses, and Social Sciences and International Relations Courses
This is a great program if you want to learn Spanish: beginning level through advanced courses are offered.
DAILY LIFE
Experience Spanish life by living with a host family in Valladolid. Host families play an integral role in helping students learn more about Valladolid, Spain, and the various aspects of Spanish culture. Students often point out living with their family as one of the highlights of the program. All meals will be provided by your host family.
Some of the best opportunities to get involved in Valladolid happen outside of the classroom! Our site director has established partnerships with several local organizations where you can complete a volunteer or internship experience, and he will happily help you set something up. For internships, please be in touch immediately after starting your application so we can begin the process. You can choose from a variety of service activities, including supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, working with a cancer research and support organization, providing services to at-risk groups, or promoting the rights of immigrants, to name just a few. There is no better way to truly get to know a community than consistently volunteering your time.
CULTURE & RECREATION
Designed to enrich your understanding of local life and culture, Amizade’s excursions are unique to each program and offer exciting learning experiences. All costs are included in the program fee. Excursion destinations are likely to change from year to year, however, students typically visit a combination of the following.
POSSIBLE EXCURSIONS MIGHT INCLUDE:
Salamanca
One of the world’s oldest universities, an impressive cathedral, and a beautiful central Plaza Mayor, but its the tiny details that make it such a pleasure to explore!
Segovia
Segovia is famous for its castle that is said to have inspired Walt Disney and its impressive ancient Roman aqueducts.
OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS
ASOCIACIÓN DE VOLUNTARIOS SAN JUAN DE DIOS
An organization focused on improving the quality of life of adults affected by intellectual disability, as well as their families.
ASOCIACIÓN ESPAÑOLA CONTRA EL CANCER
An organization focused on prevention, research and resources for cancer patients and their families, that also provides psychological and emotional support, including group therapy.
ASPACE VALLADOLID
Non-profit institution dedicated to supporting those with cerebral palsy through physical therapy.
CARITAS DIOCESANA
Non-profit, catholic institution that specializes in working with many of society’s most vulnerable groups, including those struggling with addiction, those experiencing homelessness, immigrants, seniors, and other potentially vulnerable groups.
RED INCOLA
Organization working to promote the rights of immigrants through intercultural tutoring, an adult literacy program, crafts, and opportunities for recreation and socialization.
VALLADOLID TEAM
Sergio Villa de Castro
Site Director
Melissa Nix
Site Liaison
Victoria Radford
Program Advisor
DATES & FEES
What’s included?
• Full-time Tuition & Fees
• Host family
• Breakfast and dinner with host family
• Medical and emergency insurance
• Educational excursions
• On-site resident director
• Volunteer and internship opportunities
• On-site group activities
• Seminars and guest lectures
• University services
• BCA courses taught by host institution’s professors and/or resident directors
• Cultural and university orientation
• Intensive language training
• Academic advising
• University official transcript
• Pre-departure orientation
• Airport pickup
• On-campus internet access
Scholarships are available! Visit our scholarship page to learn more.