What are the academics like?
The program is designed to be similar to coursework on an American Campus. The biggest differences are that most courses are taught in Spanish and that field projects are assigned in many courses. Mérida and surrounding areas are wonderful learning laboratories. Every attempt is made to use the Venezuelan setting as an educational resource. This means less work in the library and more time in structured field assignments. Don’t worry too much about taking classes in Spanish. The first weeks taking notes and speaking in Spanish will be a real challenge, but you will adapt sooner than you think. As long as you make the same effort in your VEN-USA classes as you do at home, your grades in Venezuela will be comparable to those you earn in the States.
