Valparaíso (pop. 284,000), and Viña del Mar (pop. 285,000) are sister cities located halfway down Chile's endless coastline and sixty-eight miles northwest of Santiago. A city of seafaring traditions and grand hilltop views, Valparaíso was once home to the famous Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. Valparaíso also functions as the primary commercial harbor, naval base, and seat of political power for the country, which creates a unique and modern dynamic in a city with roots in the colonial past. Together, Valparaíso and Viña del Mar offer something for each visitor, including spectacular beaches, museums, and architecture.
Remember that you may combine ELAP with an ISA study abroad program. To learn more about our academic programs in Valparaíso and Viña del Mar please click here.
Current placements in Valparaíso: (Click on the titles to read more)
Public Clinic
Observe medical procedures and learn medical terminology. Shadow doctors and medical staff and learn about the healthcare system in another country. Volunteers can also accompany clinic staff and paramedics to help provide social, educational and medical outreach in the community. This placement is ideal for those students going into the medical field.
Public or Private School
Assist teachers in English-language classrooms in public schools in rural and semi-urban communities. Volunteers assist with the class or may teach the class on their own. Organize English conversation tables, write lesson plans, grade papers, assist students with homework, and help supervise the classroom.
After School Program
Mentor children and teenagers and instruct them on how to prepare and present workshops in areas such as art and theatre, leadership development, peer pressure, sex education, and sustainable urban living. Volunteers may also teach classes in English. In addition, volunteers help to maintain the garden, library, and facilities of the organization.
Children's Rehabilitation Center
Create a positive environment by providing recreational and educational activities for the children during their free time. Guide new patients through the center and get them acquainted with the facility. Volunteers may also assist in the organization's
campaign to spread awareness about disabilities.
Nursery School
Help coordinate various classroom activities, assist the head teacher, and lead extracurricular activities at a school for children between the ages two and four. Volunteers teach basic English and plan fun educational activities for the children.