1. Why do I sometimes see the program called, "Duke en la América Andina"? Duke in the Andes is the name of our program for promotional purposes in the U.S. It has been the name of Duke's program in South America since 1995, when the program was first established in La Paz, Bolivia. Duke en la América Andina is what our program calls itself in Ecuador. The slight difference in our Spanish name recognizes that "America" is a term that belongs to many peoples, not just those in the U.S., and de-emphasizes for some the colonial vestiges associated with the term "Andes."
2. How large is the program? The program is typically 15-18 students. The group is about half Duke and half non-Duke.
3. Do I need an Ecuadorian visa and if so where do I get it?
You will need a student visa for study in Ecuador. Enrolled students will receive information about obtaining the visa in the orientation packet. As part of the visa process, you will be required to visit an Ecuadorian consulate in the U.S. or your country of origin. Failure to obtain a visa prior to arrival in Ecuador for the program will result in your dismissal from the program.
4. Are there any volunteer service opportunities in Quito?
There will be an emphasis given to community service and volunteerism through activities associated with the core seminar. The resident director will be able to assist you in exploring ideas for additional involvement in community activities and projects.
5. Can I work in Quito?
It is not legal for US citizens to work in Quito without official permission of the Ecuadorian government. Your student visa does not grant work permission.
6. What’s the best way to access money in Quito?
Accessing your home country accounts via an automated teller machine (ATM) in Ecuador is, by far, the easiest way to secure cash. The banks in major cities provide 24-hour ATM access and cash is dispersed in the local currency, which just happens to be the U.S. dollar. (Ecuador does mint its own coins, although U.S. coins are also accepted.)
7. How do I register for my next semester classes while abroad?
Duke students will receive an e-mail with PIN and registration instructions from the registrar prior to the registration period. ACES is available through internet access in Ecuador. Registration may also be done via fax or e-mail if the internet proves unreliable.
8. Will there be an interview in the application process?
Yes, you will be required to interview with Professor Walter Mignolo, the academic director of the program, or his appointee. The interview, conducted in Spanish, will cover your interest in and preparation for a semester in Ecuador.
9. Do I need any special immunizations before I go?
You will receive a list of recommended immunizations for Ecuador, as well as other health information regarding ailments common to the region. Duke students should make appointments with the Student Health Clinic early in the semester before departure to get the necessary travel immunizations.
10. Should I take my laptop to Ecuador?
This is a personal decision, based on your dependency on a laptop for composing papers and correspondence. If you have a digital camera, but don't have unlimited memory storage cards, a laptop may be essential. All of our partner universities have some type of computer labs where e-mail can be checked and papers composed, and there are numerous internet cafes throughout the city. In fall 2007, we are requiring all program host families to have broad band internet access and wireless routers. If this proves successful, it will become the norm for Duke in the Andes housing. If you bring a laptop to Quito, please backup all files on a regular basis.
11. Should I invest in a cell phone when I arrive?
You will need to check into the costs of cell phones and make a decision based on your financial resources. Some students recommend buying phone cards in the local kiosks and using them to call both locally and internationally as desired. Others find it helpful to have family members and friends call a designated number at a designated time (e.g. at home every other Sunday at 9 p.m.).
12. I’m a non-Duke student. How do I get a Duke transcript after I finish the program?
Transcripts will NOT be sent automatically - you will need to request them. Transcripts can be requested in writing by contacting the Duke University Office of the Registrar.
13. Is there an application fee?
No. Upon acceptance, a deposit will be required to confirm your place in the program. Information will be included in your acceptance packet.
14. Is there a recommended reading list for this program?
There is no official reading list, but we sometimes include links here to web-based articles we think are interesting for students contemplating study in Latin America. More specific information about recommended reading will be given in the program's orientation packet.
Links to numerous articles about Ecuador
Last revised: 5 September 2007
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