About the Program

From Quito to Otavalo, this program will explore apparel design and production. Follow fiber as it is transformed from yarn into apparel and home furnishing products. This course will also provide an introduction to Ecuadorian culture through its apparel and textiles.

Excursions Excursions will assist in illuminating the program coursework. These excursions will take place in Quito, Otavalo and in the surrounding areas and may include:

• Quito: compare historic Old Town with the tourist oriented New Town
• Otavalo: surrounded by volcanoes, famous for its handicrafts and Saturday Crafts Market
• Wintersun Manufacturing Facility, where clothing is hand-painted and batiked
  
• San Antonio de Ibarra, a wood-carving village nestled in the midst of green hills
  
• Peguche, a village famous for its traditional weavers and musicians
• Contachi, a village known for its leather manufacturing and the volcanic lake of Lago Quicocha
• explore the Mindo area Cloudforest, including zip-lines, hiking and swimming at Las Cascadas
• place a foot in both the northern and southern hemispheres at Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) Monument and Park
• ride to the summit of Mojanda Volcano National Park
• meet members of the Santo Domingo Tsáchila Tribe
  
• travel to the historical Hacienda Zuleta, to visit a traditional hand-embroidery workshop
• see the complete thread and fabric manufacturing process at Amaguaña
• relax in the hot springs at Termas de Papallacta

Housing & Meals
Students live in shared student housing with other program participants. Most meals are included in the program fee. Meals can be taken at local eateries or in the program housing.

On-Site Support
On-site support is provided by a local learning abroad center. Students may have access to a computer lab, a classroom space, and a library. On-site staff provide information to students regarding cultural activities as well as ensuring 24-hour emergency support.

Access Abroad

Persons with disabilities or special needs are encouraged to explore opportunities abroad. The Learning Abroad Center and Disability Services are collaborating to enhance access to study abroad for students with disabilities. Go to the Access Abroad web page for more information.