Program Details
| Program Length | Approx. Start Date | Approx. End | 2009 Price | Age on Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community Service | Fall Departure Jun 29 - Jul 3, 2009 | Return Dec 17-20, 2009 |
$8,900 | 18yr 0 mos - 30yr 0 mos |
All programs to India depart from New York.
Note about travel dates: Travel date ranges are provided to help with general scheduling. Please do not reserve any domestic travel based on these dates. AFS will notify confirmed participants with specific travel details approximately 45 days prior to departure.
About India
Located in southern Asia, India is the most populous democracy in the world and has been a nexus for trade routes and cross-cultural exchanges for most of its history. It is the birthplace of four major world religions (Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism), and has been shaped as by Christianity, Islam, and Judaism since the first millennium. It is this ability to keep its traditions while accepting new ideas, customs, foods, and even languages that makes India such a diverse society. While Hindi and English are the official languages of the country, there are more than 1,500 dialects. India gained its independence in 1947 through the widespread use of nonviolent resistance, and has made large economic strides in the last decade. Almost 70 percent of its residents still live in rural areas, though its cities are growing quickly.
Gap Program, Semester Community Service
Live with an Indian host family, become part of the local community, and spend your days helping with volunteer projects. There are several different community service assignments you can choose from, though most involve working with children. You’ll receive basic language lessons and an orientation about family life, culture, food, and making friends. There will be other exchange students in your community for you to spend time with.
All programs, prices, and travel dates are subject to change without notice.
