Location:

Chengdu, China

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

The University at Albany is partnering with West China University, located in Chengdu, China, to offer this exciting summer service learning program in Chengdu. This program is designed to help students who have limited knowledge about China but are eager to learn more about the Country and its language and culture. Program participants will learn first-hand about the real China by delivering service learning projects on a personal level. Available service learning project options are teaching English and basic computer skills to local students, organic farming, volunteering with the local SOS children's village, volunteering with the local communities and etc. Site visits in Beijing, Chengdu and its surrounding areas are offered as an integral part of the program to help students learn about different aspects of China.

Juniors, seniors and exceptional freshman and sophomores in all majors with at least 2.5 GPA and are in good academic standing are welcome to apply. Graduate credits can be arranged. Students with a lower GPA should consult with the adviser about whether or not to apply. No prior knowledge of Chinese is required. During the first week of the program, students will take "survival" Mandarin Chinese classes for a total of twenty hours in the mornings. Five lectures, taught in English, on topics about China and other Chinese cultural activities will be given in the afternoons, for a total of ten hours. During the second and the third weeks of the program, for a total of 45 hours, the program participants will be teamed up with the Chinese students from West China University on different service learning projects, supervised by the faculty/staff from the University at Albany as well as West China University.

Please see our website for more information.

Setting Description:

Students are housing in double rooms in the guest house on West China University's campus. Group meals at provided for the duration of the Program. There are also cafeterias and restaurants on and off campus where students can get meals on their own.

Cost:

Our goal is to make study abroad as affordable as possible. Please see our website for more information.