Edgewood College is pleased to have established an Affiliation Agreement with ISA (International Studies Abroad) at the University of Guanajuato, in the State of Guanajuato in Central Mexico.
The city is one of the oldest colonial centers of the Spanish in the New World, founded back in the 16th century as a center of the silver and gold mining industry. Some of the original mines are still in operation, and you can visit them even today!
The University is located right at the heart of the old city, and dates back
to the seventeenth century. It is a majestic old building, with ancient stone staircases, ornate domes and beautiful interior patios, quite a difference from the architectural styles we're used to in Wisconsin! The University of Guanajuato is one of the best known and prestigious in Mexico, and way up at the top of the main building, looking out over the city and the mountains beyond, is the Centro de Idiomas (Center for Languages), where our students take classes in the Summer from dynamic and
knowledgeable Mexican professors.
Given its rich history, Guanajuato is a popular site for many tourists, Mexicans and foreigners alike. The International Airport of Guanajuato/Leon makes it an easy city to get to from the US. The busy cultural life means there are many museums and activities, bars, restaurants and night clubs to provide entertainment. When not out enjoying the sites and sounds of the city, students live in Mexican homes with families, where they can practice their Spanish skills outside of class.
For five weeks (from late-May to late-June) and for several hours every day, students take classes in grammar, conversation, history, culture and literature, with additional classes in art and dance an option for those interested. On weekends, there are excursions to exciting new places, like Mexico City, the world's biggest city, or Michoacan, one of Mexico's most scenic states, where you can take a horse-back ride up to the top of an active volcano.
At the end, students earn 6 credits from our host institution (ISA-International Studies Abroad) which are applied to their degree progress back in Madison. Study Abroad Mexico (SASP470) is an exciting new program that we hope will benefit students for years to come. Contact the Department for more information on this great opportunity.