volunteer, intern, teach, work, and group travel in 18 countries around the world
Learning transformed. Life transforming.™ V O L U N T E E R
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I N T E R N
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T E A C H
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W O R K
table of contents cultural embrace by api mission statement
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cultural embrace by api locations
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why choose cultural embrace by api?
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how to apply and what’s next
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volunteer
11
intern
17
teach
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work
29
group travel
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application form and procedures
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Our mission is to encourage others to recognize and appreciate cultural diversity. We believe that visiting a place firsthand allows one to truly experience the authenticity of a culture and develop one’s own impressions. Our goals are to provide quality service and to create safe opportunities for participants to explore our world and enlighten their minds and hearts. We believe travel encourages a reciprocal flow of communication and interaction between people...the more you seek, the more you learn.
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work
teach
intern
volunteer Argentina
Argentina
paid teach
PAID WORK
Br a zil
br a zil
China
Aus tr alia
C a mbo d i a
C HINA
C O L O M B IA
Fr ance*
Chile
C o s ta R i c a
i ta ly *
China
ecua dor
M É x i co
*Room and/or board included. Stipend duration and employer dependent.
C o s ta R i c a
Fr ance
Thail and
Ec u a d o r
G u at e m a l a
Vietnam
G u at e m a l a
NEPA L
M É x i co
PERU
* u n pa i d b u t r oom a n d bo a r d a r e i n cl u d e d
Peru So u t h Af r i c a Thail and V IETNA M
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why cultural embrace by api? experience The staff of Cultural Embrace by API has traveled extensively through six continents in over 80 countries – teaching, working, volunteering, studying, backpacking, and managing travel groups. Our knowledge and understanding of where to go, what to do, and how to do it will prepare you for your adventure abroad.
quality service/support Cultural Embrace by API assures high quality, English-speaking local support in each country and on every program. In addition to our quality programs, we provide comprehensive medical insurance (including medical evacuation and repatriation), as well as guidance in securing international transportation, hotel arrangements, visas and immunizations, and more!
variety Cultural Embrace by API offers a wide range of experiential and educational programs for individuals and groups of all ages. If you would like to teach, intern, volunteer, work, or participate in a group trip, we have a program for you. We will assist you in identifying or customizing a program to fit your schedule, budget, interests, needs, and passions.
incredible value
Cultural Embrace by API keeps program fees low, despite offering more immersive opportunities and including more support services than most other organizations. We design group trips and programs that cater to each person’s budget, activity, interest, and schedule.
discounts
All Cultural Embrace by API, API, and Aspire by API alumni will receive a 5% program discount on any Cultural Embrace by API program. 7
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it’s time to embrace the world how to apply and what to expect next
1 2 3
Complete the Cultural Embrace by API program application. (Application in the back of the catalog or downloadable from our website.) Submit the application, your résumé/CV, and a $300 (volunteer) or $400 (teach, work, intern) non-refundable standard application fee to: Cultural Embrace by API • 301 Camp Craft Road, Suite 100 • Austin, TX 78746
A Cultural Embrace by API Program Coordinator will contact you to conduct a 20-30 minute Google Hangout or Skype interview.
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Placement process begins upon receipt of all supplemental application materials and at least
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Confirmation of your placement and final details with international insurance and pre-departure materials
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Your experience abroad begins! You will have English-speaking, in-country support,
50% of your program fee.
are provided upon receipt of the full program fee. In the event we are unable to make a successful placement, your complete program fee, including application fee, will be refunded or transferred to another program.
as well as continued support from the Texas-based Cultural Embrace by API Program Coordinator throughout your program.
Keep the movement going even after you finish your Cultural Embrace by API program. Upon completion of your post program online evaluation, you will receive a pair of TOMS Shoes from Cultural Embrace by API. With every product purchased, TOMS will help a person in need. One for One.™ Giving back is part of our ethos. We share the vision of the TOMS mission – to help make a positive impact abroad by providing a pair of shoes to a child in need. 9
volunteer
save
5% Receive 5% off any Cultural Embrace by API program as an API, Aspire, or C.E. by API alum.
why volunteer abroad? Volunteering abroad offers a unique opportunity to grow personally while making significant contributions to the local community. Open your heart, lend a hand, and seize the day as you embark on a purpose-filled adventure. Cultural Embrace by API has developed strong relationships with orphanages, schools, conservation groups, hospitals, animal rescue centers, and non-profit organizations abroad. We work with your skills and preferences to best match your passions with the availability, needs, and objectives of the local host community.
benefits/highlights Make a difference: Volunteering abroad allows you to travel with purpose and provides activities to enhance your experience. You can gain global perspective and create positive change in our world and within yourself. Grow your sense of self: Volunteering can improve your sense of self-worth and gratitude. Volunteering abroad will help you to test your abilities, develop new skills, learn to adapt, gain confidence, and become more independent. Worry-free travel logistics: Guaranteed placements, along with room and board, are pre-arranged and included in most of our programs.
what’s included
what’s not included
• Volunteer placement • International airfare • Pre-departure and local support • Local transportation • Housing (private or shared depending on location) • Visa and passport fees • Most meals (depending on location) • Some meals (depends on location) • Arrival pick-up and transfer • $300 standard application fee is not included in your program. (Standard program start date is • Training, orientation, and assessment every 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless • Medical, life, and travel insurance with otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator) evacuation and repatriation Add $150 to the standard application fee for • Optional cultural activities and trips tailored start dates and any program alterations. • Certificate of completion • Optional international mobile plan with data coverage • A pair of TOMS Shoes, a One for One™ giving product, upon completion of your program and evaluation 11
volunteer projects a Child and Infant Care
e Medical/Health/Nutrition
Community programs or orphanage support
Community health and medical clinics
b Coaching
f Social Justice
Sports, art and music
Supporting women, individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or economically disadvantaged people
c Construction/Maintenance Community building projects, school restoration
d Environment/Ecology Reforestation, agriculture, sustainable development, environmental awareness
g Teaching/Tutoring Public schools and community centers
h Wildlife Conservation Endangered species and habitat protection
countries Argentina a b e f g
Costa Rica a c d e f g h
Peru a c d e f g
Brazil j x q a p
Ecuador a c d e f g h
South Africa j m c d e f g h
Cambodia j m c d d a h
Guatemala a c d e f g
Thailand a b c d g h
Chile j m c q a
México a c e f g
Vietnam a b c d a
China a b c d e f g h
Nepal a m c e f g h
“I would certainly recommend CE by API to others. I would do so because they are very flexible with your choices and options…giving the option to custom-make your own project…My homestay was very soothing and comfortable. I could honestly say that I was so comfortable that being there made me feel like it was my second home. Everyone opened up to me by sharing personal family stories, which made me feel comfortable to share some of my own stories as well. Even though I only stayed for 2 weeks, it felt like I knew them forever.” - Titilayo M. Volunteer, Brazil
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China
Nepal
Program Fee
Program Fee
1 week orientation + 1 week volunteer: US$850-$1,175* project dependent US$295 EACH ADDITIONAL week US$500 EXTRA WEEK (PANDA CAMP)
1 week orientation + 1 week volunteer: US$850* US$290 EACH ADDITIONAL week
Dates
• Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 2 weeks • Maximum duration: 12 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 8 weeks prior to departure date
Chengdu, Fengyang, Hainan Island, Jiangxi, and Yangshuo
• Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 2 weeks • Maximum duration: 12 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12 weeks prior to departure date
Types of Projects
a b c d e f g h Requirements
Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara
Dates
Southeast Asia
Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam Program Fee 1 week orientation + 1 week volunteer: US$850-$1,175* project dependent US$290 EACH ADDITIONAL WEEK US$500-600 EXTRA WEEK - project dependent cycling, buddhism, wildlife, elephant, hillside/jungle trek, beach
Dates
Types of Projects
• Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 2 weeks • Maximum duration: 6 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 8 weeks prior to departure date
a m c e f g h
Types of Projects
Requirements
a b c d e g h
• Minimum 21 years of age
Requirements
• Minimum 21 years of age
• Minimum 21 years of age
“I just wanted to say how amazing my experience was volunteer-teaching in Vietnam. I met so many wonderful colleagues and students, and I made such great lifelong friends whom I will never forget. This experience has certainly changed my life for the better, and I will always remember this as a major turning point in my career. This would not have been possible without your gracious help and guidance. Thank you!” - Dustin G., Volunteer in Vietnam
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*All volunteer programs require an additional $300 standard application fee.
Latin America
contribution to my volunteer
Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, México, and Peru
South Africa
placement. I felt like the kids
Program Fee
Program Fee
“I think I made a meaningful
had grown attached to me…I believe, and I hope, my affection towards
them
kindled
their
hearts. I’ve always wanted to do something to help kids in need. This experience has been my first step, and I now wish to search for more opportunities like this in the future. I hope to become a doctor, and this experience has inspired me to consider becoming a doctor specializing in children’s needs.” - Ashley K. Volunteer in Argentina
Varies based on project and destination Starting from US$500* FIRST Week Starting from US$210 EACH ADDITIONAL week
Dates • Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 1 week • Maximum duration: 12 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 8 weeks prior to departure date (12 weeks for Brazil)
What Else Is Included • 10-20 hours of Spanish or Portuguese language for most destinations’ first week of service (additional weeks of language available).
Types of Projects
Cape Town, Chintsa, Jeffrey’s Bay, and Gansbaai Varies based on project and destination Starting from US$685* FIRST Week US$520 EACH ADDITIONAL week
Dates • Standard start date of 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month for orientation, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 1 week • Maximum duration: 12 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 8 weeks prior to departure date
Types of Projects
a b c d e f g h Requirements • Minimum 21 years of age
a b c d e f g h Requirements • Argentina, CHILE, Costa Rica, and MÉxico Minimum 18 years of age • Brazil, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Peru Minimum 21 years of age
j Child and Infant Care m Coaching y Construction/Maintenance x Environment/Ecology d Medical/Health/Nutrition q Social Justice a Teaching/Tutoring p Wildlife Conservation
*All volunteer programs require an additional $300 standard application fee.
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intern
save
5% Receive 5% off any Cultural Embrace by API program as an API, Aspire, or C.E. by API alum.
why participate in an internship abroad?
If you’re a student or recent graduate looking to gain professional skills and to make international contacts within your area of interest, our programs are for you! Individually tailored internships will develop your professional qualifications and provide valuable insight into the global market. Through a Cultural Embrace by API internship, you will receive direct guidance from professionals while learning skills that will help prepare you for your future career. You will also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, practice another language, and make lifelong relationships!
benefits/highlights
• Internships tailored to your professional goals and the skillset you offer to employers • The opportunity to broaden your global perspective and increase your independence • Valuable work experience and intercultural skills to enhance your résumé • The opportunity to participate in cultural activities with other interns • The chance to make lifelong friends from around the globe • Full-time local support, orientation/training, housing assistance, and arrival support • Memorable travel experiences with the possibility of seeing exotic sites
what’s included
what’s not included
• Guaranteed internship placement • International airfare • Pre-departure and local support • Local transportation • Accommodations • Visa and passport fees • Training, orientation, and assessment • $400 standard application fee is not included in your program. (Standard program start date is • Medical, life, and travel insurance every 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless with evacuation and repatriation otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator) • Optional cultural and recreational activities Add $150 to the standard application fee for • Certificate of completion tailored start dates and any program alterations. • Optional international mobile plan with data coverage • A pair of TOMS Shoes, a One for One™ giving product, upon completion of your program and evaluation
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internship fields g Business
f Hospitality/Tourism
Accounting, Marketing, Sales, Finance, Administration, Design/IT, Microfinance, etc.
Customer Service, Administrative, Food and Beverage, Logistics and Operations, Design/IT, Sales, Marketing, Translation
x Eco/Environmental
d Medical/Health
Agriculture, Animal Wildlife, Eco-System, Sustainable Agriculture, Environmental Studies
Public Health, Outreach, Administration, Nutrition, Systems Observations, Clinical Shadowing
b Education
c Social Services
Classroom Assistance, Tutoring, Curriculum Development, Observation, Administrative Support
Social Business, NGO or Non-Profit Administration and Support, Renovation/Construction, Design/IT
countries Argentina g x a f d q
Ecuador g x f d q
Nepal g a f d q
Brazil g a f q
France g x f q
Peru g x a q
Costa Rica g x a f d q
Guatemala x a d q
“I thoroughly enjoyed my experience. It was truly remarkable. Meeting new people, exploring a new culture, learning a new language. I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a change in their life.� - Riya R., Intern in Argentina
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Argentina Buenos Aires Program Fee
4 WEEKS US$1,950* US$290 EACH ADDITIONAL week US$235 EACH ADDITIONAL week of spanish classes
Dates • Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 1 month • Maximum duration: 12 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 16 weeks prior to departure date
Brazil Program Fee 8 WEEKS US$2,100* US$350* ADDITIONAL month *Housing will increase during peak and CARNAVAL seasons
Dates • Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 2 months • Maximum duration: 6 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 16 weeks prior to departure date
Costa Rica
San José and Manuel Antonio Program Fee 4 WEEKS san josé
US$1,995* US$335 EACH ADDITIONAL week manuel antonio
US$2,435* US$385 EACH ADDITIONAL week *+US$50 for medical/health, construction, and environmental placements
Dates
Internship Fields
g a f q
• Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 1 month • Maximum duration: 12 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 16 weeks prior to departure date
g x a f d q
Requirements
What Else Is Included
Requirements
• 21-30 years of age • Intermediate Portuguese or Spanish helpful, but not required
• 1 hour/day private Spanish lessons
What Else Is Included • 20 hours of Spanish lessons • Breakfast and dinner five nights a week
• 18-30 years of age • Intermediate or higher Spanish language level (courses available)
g Business x Eco/Environmental a Education
What Else Is Included • Small stipends typically offered at employer’s discretion
Internship Fields
* Additional fees for cultural and recreational activities may be required.
Internship Fields
g x a f d q Requirements • 18-30 years of age • Intermediate or higher Spanish language level (courses available) • Interns must be in 3rd year of health studies and have a high level of Spanish for medical internships
f Hospitality/Tourism d Medical/Health q Social Services 20
*All internship programs require an additional $400 standard application fee.
Ecuador
Mainland and Galápagos Program Fee 4 WEEKS Mainland: US$1,400* Galápagos: US$1,700* US$310 EACH ADDITIONAL week (mainland) US$350 EACH ADDITIONAL week (Galápagos) *Does not include transportation, park and harbor fees to visit Galápagos.
Dates • Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 4 weeks • Maximum duration: 6 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 16 weeks prior to departure date
What Else Is Included • 20 hours of Spanish lessons • Meals with host family, Monday-Friday
Internship Fields
g x f d q
France
Throughout France Program Fee
“Being in France has not only taught me a lot about the French medical system, but also a lot about
4 WEEKS US$2,075* US$1,100 EACH ADDITIONAL month
the French culture. Coming from a
Dates
at home, it was initially a challenge
• Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 1 month • Maximum duration: 6 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 16 weeks prior to departure date
to adjust to a more relaxed lifestyle
Internship Fields
g x f q Requirements • 18-30 years of age • Intermediate or higher French language level (courses available) ** One-time fee of €85 for registration, textbook and supplies for French language lessons not included.
Requirements • 21-30 years of age • Intermediate or higher Spanish language level (courses available)
very hectic and fast-paced lifestyle
here in France, where we eat together as a family every evening and do not rush family activities. I really have enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere in France and hope that I can continue to be more relaxed with my schedule at home. I also was very intimidated by the language at first, but have grown to be able to speak the language pretty well, in addition to expanding my medical vocabulary. I have been very happy staying here and being immersed into a French family, truly learning how French families live, eat, and work, and I enjoy comparing this to the American way of life. This program
has
been
particularly
special because the father of the family is a physician, so I have not only learned about French families in general, but what it would be like to live as a physician in France.” - Kathryn B., Intern in France
*All internship programs require an additional $400 standard application fee.
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Guatemala
Nepal
Peru
4 WEEKS US$1,150* US$280 EACH ADDITIONAL week US$160 EACH ADDITIONAL week of
4 WEEKS US$1,630* US$350 EACH ADDITIONAL week
4 WEEKS US$2,200* US$300 EACH ADDITIONAL week US$280 EACH ADDITIONAL
Antigua and surrounding villages Program Fee
5 hourS of private Spanish tutoring
Dates • Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 4 weeks • Maximum duration: 12 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 16 weeks prior to departure date
What Else Is Included • Private room and bathroom at host family • 10 hours of 1:1 Spanish lessons 1st week
Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara Program Fee Dates • Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 4 weeks • Maximum duration: 12 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 16 weeks prior to departure date
Internship Fields
g a f d q Requirements • Minimum 21 years old
Internship Fields
Cusco and Lima Program Fee
10 HOURS PER WEEK OF SPANISH CLASSES
Dates • Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 4 weeks • Maximum duration: 6 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 16 weeks prior to departure date
Internship Fields
g x a q Requirements • Minimum 21 years old
x a d q Requirements • Minimum 21 years old
g Business x Eco/Environmental a Education f Hospitality/Tourism d Medical/Health q Social Services *All internship programs require an additional $400 standard application fee.
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teach
save
5% Receive 5% off any Cultural Embrace by API program as an API, Aspire, or C.E. by API alum.
why teach abroad? Teaching English is one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel, give back to a community, immerse yourself in a new culture, and gain practical teaching experience. Appreciation of cultural diversity and English language skills are increasingly necessary in a global economy. You can help others to expand their personal and professional opportunities, and broaden your own perspective, through your interactions within the school and community. Live and travel abroad while doing something inspiring, fun, and valuable! Cultural Embrace by API has established positive relationships with schools, language academies, and Ministries of Education around the world to ensure an ideal match between teachers, students, and communities. Classroom education experience and foreign language competency are helpful but not required in all destinations.
benefits/highlights • Guaranteed and pre-arranged placements to match your skills and experience with the needs of the local community • Monthly salary/stipend • Affordable way to live and travel abroad • Practical international teaching experience which enhances every résumé, regardless of industry • A fantastic opportunity to improve your foreign language skills while conversing with locals on a daily basis • The chance to broaden your perspective and world view
what’s included
what’s not included
• Guaranteed teaching placement • Pre-departure and local English-speaking support • Arrival pick-up • Accommodations • Orientation and training • Cultural activities and excursions • Medical, life, and travel insurance with evacuation and repatriation • Bonus or travel stipend for completed contracts in Colombia, China, Vietnam, and Thailand • Optional online TEFL course • Optional international mobile plan with data coverage • A pair of TOMS Shoes, a One for One™ giving product, upon completion of your program and evaluation
• International airfare Airfare reimbursement in Asia upon contract completion
• Local transportation • Visa and passport fees • $400 teach application fee not included in your program fee
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Colombia
Government-sponsored programs and NGOs throughout Colombia Program Fee No program fee! You only have to pay the $400 application fee.
Dates 10 Month Academic Terms From January to Mid-December with month-long midterm break in mid-June. SPRING January - Mid-June, 2015 FALL Early July - Mid-December, 2015 • APPLICATION DEADLINE: November 10, 2014
Highlights • Monthly stipend (sufficient to cover local living expenses). • Bonus after completion of 10-month contract • Two-week orientation in Bogotá plus one-week training in host city with shared room, meals, and excursions
Requirements • Native English speaker • Minimum 21 years old • College degree • Experience working with children as a teacher, mentor, tutor, coach, etc. preferred • Excellent spoken/written English, flexibility and cultural sensitivity
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México
Language schools in Guanajuato and Léon Program Fee SEMESTER US$500* 5 MONTHS
ACADEMIC YEAR US$750* 10 MONTHS
Dates SPRING January - June FALL August - December • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12 weeks prior to departure date
Highlights • Local salary: MP5,000/~US$400 - MP10,000/~US$800 per month Varies based on experience and school placement • Lower salary range will include housing at teacher apartments • Higher salary range will not include housing but can be arranged for approximately 2000 pesos per month
Requirements • Native English speaker • Minimum 21 years old • College degree • Experience working with children as a teacher, mentor, tutor, coach, etc. preferred • Excellent spoken/written English, flexibility and cultural sensitivity
*All teach programs require an additional $400 standard application fee.
“I have felt very supported during this pre-departure process…CE by API has sent informative, succinct emails about the program, departure details, orientation, etc. As a result, it has not been overwhelming preparing for this program, as I feel like there has been plenty of time and information to complete each step of the process efficiently. “ - Cara M., Teach in Colombia
China
Thailand
Vietnam
Public and private academies, schools and universities throughout China
Secondary schools and kindergartens throughout Thailand
Language schools in Vinh City
Program Fee
Program Fee
Program Fee
No program fee! You only have to pay the $400 application fee.
5 MONTHS US$1,350* 10 MONTHS US$1,490*
Dates
Dates
2-3 MONTHS US$500* 6 MONTHS US$500* 10-11 MONTHS US$750*
SPRING February - June FALL Late August - January SUMMER Mid-July - Mid-August • APPLICATION DEADLINES: Spring: November 28, 2014 Fall: June 1, 2015 Summer: April 20, 2015
Highlights • Local salary: ¥4,000/~US$630 to ¥7,200/~US$1,130 per month Varies on school, location and experience • Summer stipend: ¥3,000-12,000/~US$475-$1,875 • Private room in teacher’s housing or apartment included • Various excursions and cultural activities throughout placement • Airfare reimbursement and/or vacation bonus (except summer)
Requirements • Native English speaker • Minimum 21 years old • Bachelor’s degree at least two years ago • Experience working with children as a teacher, mentor, tutor, coach, etc. preferred • Excellent spoken/written English, flexibility and cultural sensitivity
SPRING Early May - Late September
Dates
• APPLICATION DEADLINE:
SPRING Mid-February - Late June FALL September - January • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12 weeks prior to departure date
March 20, 2015
Highlights • Local salary: Minimum 20,000BHT (~US$650) per month Varies on school, location and experience • Airfare bonus (20,000BHT/~US$650) after completion of 10-month contract starting in May • Private furnished housing included in teacher’s house or apartment • 5 days all-inclusive orientation and TEFL training with cultural activities, excursions around Bangkok • Various excursions and cultural activities throughout placement
Requirements • Native English speaker • Minimum 21 years old • College degree • Experience working with children as a teacher, mentor, tutor, coach, etc. preferred • Excellent spoken/written English, flexibility and cultural sensitivity
Highlights • Local salary: ~US$500 per month (20 hrs/wk) Varies by school, location and experience • Airfare bonus: one-way ticket (6-9 months) or round-trip ticket (10-11 months) • Private furnished housing included in teacher’s house or apartment • Various excursions and cultural activities throughout placement • Bicycle and and local cell phone provided
Requirements • Native English speaker • Minimum 21 years old • College degree • Experience working with children as a teacher, mentor, tutor, coach, etc. preferred • Excellent spoken/written English, flexibility and cultural sensitivity
*All teach programs require an additional $400 standard application fee.
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save
work
5% Receive 5% off any Cultural Embrace by API program as an API, Aspire, or C.E. by API alum.
why take advantage of a work and travel experience? Cultural Embrace by API allows you to travel to an exciting international location where you are able to earn a local salary or work in exchange for meals and accommodations, making your travel far more affordable. Cultural Embrace by API offers paid work or placement opportunities in the hospitality and outback/farm/ranch industries that offset the cost of living. These opportunities allow you to live abroad and experience the local culture as more than a tourist. Hospitality and farm/ranch placements are available in beautiful Australia and France. By working abroad, you can cultivate real world experience, lifelong friends, and your sense of adventure. Cultural Embrace by API will provide you with the support and security you need to successfully live and travel abroad!
benefits/highlights • An economical way to live and travel abroad • An opportunity to broaden your personal and global perspectives • A fantastic opportunity to improve your foreign language skills while communicating with locals on a daily basis • Memorable travel experiences with the chance to see exotic sites • The option to make lifelong friends from around the globe • A valuable work experience that enhances your résumé and strengthens your intercultural and interpersonal skills • A great way to develop self-confidence and independence
what’s included
what’s not included
• Guaranteed paid job placement • International airfare • Pre-departure and local English-speaking support • Local transportation • Arrival assistance • Visa and passport fees • Accommodations • $400 standard application fee is not included in your program. (Standard program start date is • Housing and most meals with host employers every 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless • Orientation otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator) • Medical, life, and travel insurance Add $150 to the standard application fee for with evacuation and repatriation tailored start dates and any program alterations. • Optional international mobile plan with data coverage • A pair of TOMS Shoes, a One for One™ giving product, upon completion of your program and evaluation 29
Australia
Paid Farm/Ranch Work in Outback/Rural Areas Program Fees
Unpaid Farm/Ranch Work Program Fees FARM STAY
US$1,990*
US$1,150*
Dates
RANCH STAY
• Standard start date of 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Valid up to 12 months for working holiday visa holders
• APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12 weeks prior to departure date
Highlights • Weekly stipend from ~AU$250-350/~US$250-350 • Accommodations and meals included in most placements • 4 nights jet lag recovery in Brisbane and Rainbow Beach • 5 days agriculture training and orientation with all meals and housing
Requirements • 21 to 30 years of age • High school diploma or GED certificate • Proof of financial stability • Good physical health and motivation
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France
EXTRA MONTH US$250
US$1,275* EXTRA MONTH US$275
Dates • Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 1 month • Maximum duration: 3 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12 weeks prior to departure date
Highlights • Accommodations and meals included • FARM STAY Approximately 25 hours/week fruit picking, grape harvesting, market selling, etc. • ranch STAY Approximately 25 hours/week working with animals and daily farm work.
Requirements • 18 to 30 years of age • Basic knowledge of French • Good physical health and motivation
France
Paid Hospitality/Tourism Work Cities throughout France Program Fees US$1,150* EXTRA MONTH US$250
Dates • Standard start date of the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month, unless otherwise specified by your Program Coordinator. Customized options available for an extra fee. • Minimum duration: 1 month • Maximum duration: 3 months • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 8 weeks prior to departure date
Highlights • Approximately 400 Euros/US$535 per month stipend for 2-3 months placement. • Housing, meals and laundry service included for most hotel placements. • Housing and laundry service included for most campsite placements.
Requirements • 19 to 30 years of age • Good knowledge of French • Must be a hospitality, tourism, PR, or customer service major • Some previous work experience in the hospitality field
“I just wanted to thank you and your company for making it possible and facilitating me in the process of working abroad in France. Not only did I achieve my goal of improving my French, gaining work/life experience in the European sector, but additionaIly, I feel that I have grown as a person. While abroad I was able to live, work, and gain the knowledge of how it is to survive in the real world. An experience that I will take with me and surely share with others!” -Michelle B., Work in France *All teach programs require an additional $400 standard application fee.
group trips what better way to experience another country than with other like-minded people? Join one of Cultural Embrace by API’s group trips or request a customized itinerary specifically designed to fit the schedules, budget, interests, goals, and passions of you and your fellow travelers. Our expert advice and knowledge of destinations goes beyond sightseeing. We specialize in integrating the traveler with the local communities for an authentic experience through educational, humanitarian and cultural activities. While we pre-arrange all travel logistics so you are able to maximize your time abroad, we also recognize the importance of needing independent time to explore. Whether hiking to an active volcano by day and helping conservationists in Costa Rica preserve endangered sea turtles by night, or traveling through China while learning how to cook traditional Chinese dishes, we know you will have a life-transforming experience.
want to customize your own trip? Get a group together (minimum 8 travelers for most destinations) and let us know where you want to go, when you want to go, what you want to do…and we’ll do the rest! We will organize every detail, including: airport arrival and transfer, accommodations, meals, ground transportation, service projects and donations, excursions, cultural activities, English-speaking guides, and much more. We are able to tailor safe and comfortable programs in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Oceania. Contact us for professional ideas, opinions, and logistical arrangements.
want to travel for free? If you recruit 10 full-paying travelers for your trip, you will go for free (complimentary program fee, airfare not included).
”Cultural Embrace by API’s trips are so innovative and they provide such exceptional service. I have been impressed with each trip you have arranged, and how smoothly things have run, the capability of the local travel guides, and the overall enriching experience. In no way the typical, run-of-the-mill tour.” - Carolyn, Australia/New Zealand, Nicaragua and Ecuador
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your life-changing adventure starts now application forms and procedures Cultural Embrace by API (“CE by API”) is a division of Academic Programs International, Inc. (“API”) and offers volunteer, teach, work, intern, and group travel programs. Submit the following to begin your Cultural Embrace by API experience: • Application form (included in this catalog or downloaded from the Cultural Embrace by API website) • Your résumé/CV • A US$300 (volunteer) or US$400 (teach, work, intern) application deposit Note: Not included toward program fees but refundable if we cannot provide you with a placement. Upon receipt of your preliminary application, a Cultural Embrace by API Program Coordinator will contact you to conduct a 20-30 minute phone or Skype interview. During this conversation, we will learn more about your interests and goals so we can identify a placement that best suits you and the host community’s needs. We also talk open and honestly about what you should expect from our program and living abroad. Application Deadlines Preliminary applications are due 8, 12, or 16 weeks prior to the program start date, depending on the type of program. Late applications are accepted on a space-available basis for an additional fee of $180. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at +1 (512) 469-9089.
CONTACT US Cultural Embrace by API • 301 Camp Craft Road • Suite 100 • Austin, TX 78746 +1 (512) 469-9089 • info@culturalembracebyapi.com • culturalembracebyapi.com 32
application V O L U N T E E R
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Mail application to: CULTURAL EMBRACE by api • 301 camp craft road • SUITE 100 • austin, tx 78746-6501 please type or print clearly in capital letters with black or blue ink.
participant contact information Name FIRST __________________________________ middle _________________________________ last _______________________________________ DATE OF BIRTH ________________ GENDER m Male m Female
Month/Day/Year
MAILING address _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ city __________________________________________________________________________ state _____________ zip ___________________________ telephone ( __________ ) _____________________________________ best time to be reached ____________________ e-mail address ______________________________________________ SKYPE address _______________________________ preferred method of contact m E-Mail m Phone m Skype m Text PASSPORT # (if currently available) ____________________________ country _______________________ expiration date __________
program information TO WHICH TYPE OF PROGRAM ARE YOU APPLYING? m Volunteer m Intern m Teach m Hospitality or Farm/Ranch Work
m Group Trip
what country are you applying for? _______________________________ what is your preferred city? ________________________ what is your PREFERRED START/END DATE? start date __________________________ end date __________________________
skills and experiences Do you have any background skills for the program you are participating in? m Yes m No please describe _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ List any training/experience related to this program you are applying to ___________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Do you speak any foreign languages? m Yes m No if yes, which ones and at what level? _______________________________ List any overseas work/study/travel experience ___________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ List your hobbies/interests ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ how did you hear about the cultural embrace by api program? (please be specific) ___________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Upon receipt of an application and completion of a phone/Skype interview, you will be invoiced for 50% of the program fee. This payment must be made within 14 days of your acceptance so that API is able to begin processing your placement, and is considered to be confirmation of your intent to participate in the program. The remainder of your program fee is due a minimum of 30 days prior to your program start date. Failure to remit your payment in a timely manner will result in late fees of US$180 or dismissal from the program with no refund. Confirmation of a placement (as applicable) will not be made until FULL payment is received.
customized and expediting fees Cultural Embrace by API requires an additional tailored application fee of US$150 in addition to the standard US$300 (volunteer) or US$400 (teach, work, intern) fee if you wish to deviate from the program start dates. Cultural Embrace by API requires an additional expediting fee of US$180 if your completed supplemental application materials and 50% of your program fee are not received a minimum of 8 weeks (for most Volunteer programs), 12 weeks (Work, Teach, and Volunteer Brazil and China), and 16 weeks (Intern) prior to your desired departure date. Expediting fees are non-refundable.
cancellation and refund policy Cultural Embrace by API makes financial commitments for your placement prior to your program start date. If cancellation of program participation is required, we must receive a notice in writing. If you cancel your participation in the program, you are entitled to a refund as follows: Withdrawal notification 30+ days prior to preferred departure date All program fees minus the US$300 or $400 application fee Withdrawal notification 15-29 days prior to preferred departure date 50% of program fee minus the US$300 or $400 application fee Withdrawal notification 1-14 days prior to preferred departure date 25% of program fee minus the US$300 or $400 application fee Withdrawal notification after preferred departure date None Note: Upon enrollment in an online TEFL course (when applicable), the US$300 fee is nonrefundable. Cultural Embrace by API is also not responsible for any transportation, travel, visa, and/or heath related fees that may have been incurred prior to withdrawal.
program deferrals Cultural Embrace by API understands certain situations arise and you may need to defer or postpone your program. If so, you must submit a specific request with an updated preferred start/end date in writing. Requests to defer or postpone the placement start date can be accommodated without penalty as long as they are received a minimum of 30 days prior to the program start date. Requests received less than 30 days prior to the scheduled start date are subject to API’s standard cancellation policies. name of participant (please print) __________________________________________________________________________________ signature of participant _____________________________________________________________ DATE ________________________
please return this application and all of the required materials to: cultural embrace by api • 301 camp craft road • suite 100 • austin, texas 78746-6501 if you have questions, please visit the cultural embrace by api website at www.culturalembracebyapi.com, e-mail us at info@culturalembracebyapi.com or call +1 (512) 469-9089.
(512) 469-9089 culturalembracebyapi.com
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301 Camp Craft Road • Suite 100 • Austin, Texas 78746 phone fax skype e-mail
512-469-9089 512-600-8999 Cultural.Embrace info@culturalembracebyapi.com
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