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• Student Life

Student Life

Quito is a vibrant setting for BCA students.  The university offers a balance of strong academics and social activities.  Students experience quotidian life with their host families and student life at the university-with professors and Ecuadorian students.  Many BCA students get involved in the social climate of the university and city. Some students participate in internships and/or volunteer at a local organization, including orphanages, day care centers, and schools for disabled children; teaching English as a second language in local schools; and working in various non profit organizations, including special organizations in Quito’s Historical Center. The BCA Quito director helps arrange these experiences for students.

Your Home at the “Middle of the World”

Whether it is life with your Ecua-family, the great cultural opportunities all around you, your volunteer work, local youth groups or just hanging out with Ecuadorian classmates or fellow BCAers, Quito quickly becomes “home.”  And just as you felt after leaving your United States home for the first time, you will feel homesick after leaving Ecuador. 

Student Video from Quito, Spring 09

Housing and Meals

On the third day of your stay in Quito, you will move into the home of your host family. Host families range from middle to upper-middle class, with different resources available.  While all families provide breakfast and dinner, a private room and laundry services, some also have internet in the house or even a maid who does the cooking and cleaning. Students receive a lunch allowance every month, since they are not normally home at that time.  They are welcome to make their own box lunch or purchase food at the many eateries in or near the university.

Computer Access

Although Internet access is not guaranteed in host families' homes, many of the families do have personal computers.  BCA students have access to all of the university's computer labs. There are also many inexpensive cyber cafes located throughout the city.

Local Transportation

In Quito, public transportation is inexpensive and reliable. Passes are not available, so you'll pay the fare with coins each time you ride the bus. At night, students are advised to take taxis and travel in groups whenever possible. A taxi allowance is provided to each student.  Check map (a better map is by simply going to google maps: http://maps.google.com

Sports Facilities

Students have access to the numerous sports activities at the university, including soccer, fencing, mountain climbing, hiking, aerobics, yoga, tae kwon do, basketball, volleyball, track, and tai chi. You may also take advantage of the public parks that are open for jogging and playing basketball, soccer and Ultimate Frisbee.  There are many gyms throughout the city and students can easily become members.

 

 

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