As a LASP student you'll complete:
- an intensive Spanish language course
- a class on Latin American history and contemporary issues
- a study trip to the country of Nicaragua
- one of four academic concentrations
"The first-hand experiences with people and political issues challenged us to change our perspectives on what it means to be a Christian in a world full of difficulties and poverty" (Jacob Galloway, Northwestern College)
Core Courses
Spanish Language, Core Seminar and Regional Study Travel form LASP's experiential and academic "Core" courses.
Concentrations
applicant selects one of the following four academic concentrations:
- Latin American Studies
- Advanced Language and Literature
- International Business (fall semester only)
- Environmental Science (spring semester only)
Concentration work takes place during weeks 10-15 of the semester and entails related coursework and practicums/internships.
GRADING
Evaluation of your work is based on many factors. These include but are not limited to: participation, written assignments, group projects, and examinations. A "C" grade indicates adequate performance, a "B" grade indicates good, competent and complete work, and an "A" grade indicates creative excellence that is integrative and exceeds requirements.
Accompaniment through a Local Practicum/Field Study
Each semester, students are placed in a practicum/internship that coincides with the participant's concentration and interest. LASP students have assisted on construction projects, export/import businesses, conservation of tropical flora and fauna, in classrooms, orphanages, day-care centers, hospitals, penitentiaries, farms and much more. The LASP staff monitors student work and visits project sites.
Travel in Central America
To broaden the cross-cultural experience, the LASP group travels through other countries in Central America during various times throughout the semester. The travel practicum component will not stop in every Latin American country, but will include visits to several of them, discovering both the similarity and diversity among the Latin American peoples. In recent semesters, the LASP group has traveled to the countries of Nicaragua and Guatemala. Travel allows you many direct, personal encounters with Central Americans and with the reality of their lives.
