Meet Craig T.Z., a student at AmeriSpan's Cusco Spanish School (Budget Friendly)

What is your background?
Ethnicity: American
Age: 21
Education: International School Bangkok, Thailand (2001-2008)
Binghamton University, New York (2008- )
Current Address: Wakefield, Rhode Island, USA  
Civil Status: Single

Do you travel abroad often?
Yes, I used to travel abroad once or twice a month before I enrolled at University. Now I travel two to three times a year, primarily for vacation.

Have you studied abroad?
I attended the International School of Bangkok in Thailand for 7 years.

Which languages do you speak or have studied?
I speak English, and have studied Thai and Spanish in school.

Why did you choose an AmeriSpan program?
I was introduced to the study abroad program through my travels abroad, meeting people and visiting schools. I joined the program because after growing up overseas, I wanted to continue my studies in a foreign environment.  

When did you start your program?
I began my program February 28^th, 2011. In The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

What does your program consist of?
In the program, my work is volunteering as a teacher and teachers assistant in local schools in the host country, as well as a Spanish language student.

What do you enjoy the most about your program?
The part of my work I enjoy most is connecting with the children in the schools. Its cliché to say it is rewarding, but there is no better way to explain it. The enjoyment comes from the challenge of understanding each student's abilities and how best to leverage them. No matter the country, city, or social status of the school I am volunteering in, children are all the same and their energy is always positive.

Has a person, group of people or organization instrumental in your study abroad goals?
There have been many people that have been instrumental to my success, as well as organizations. Namely the camp I work in each summer. Spending all day and night with youths allowed me the opportunity to not only be a teacher, instructor and counselor but also a role model and companion. I have also had ample support from friends and family, they have made me the person I am today. And finally, there are always the people and places that I travel to that provide new insights and ideas that I am able to transfer to my work.      

Tell us one of the biggest challenges you've encountered studying abroad.
My biggest challenge is knowing where to begin. With students there is always a range of attitudes and aptitudes. It is necessary to cater to everyone’s own learning style so they all receive an equal understanding of the material.

Tell us one of the mistakes you've made studying abroad.
My biggest mistake when volunteering is forgetting to take it slow and keep the material and pace consistent.

How did you find out about AmeriSpan?
I discovered AmeriSpan through my Spanish school in Cusco, Peru.

Can you tell us about your school’s philosophy, specialty and/or why you think it is special?
My school's specialty is teaching interested students the Spanish language and providing enthusiastic individuals with volunteer opportunities.  

Learn more about AmeriSpan's Budget-Friendly Cusco Spanish school

The school's beautiful building boasts a great location and many sought after amenities, including large bay windows, free Wi-fi, a tango room, a lounge, cafe, full kitchen, and more – not to mention the truly brilliant and attentive faculty! One student loved his experience here so much, he used his multimedia expertise to make a "mini-documentary" about this school for future students!

Learn more about AmeriSpan's Buenos Aires Spanish school (Budget-Friendly) 

Things to add to your budget

Of course, the usual suspects should be on here:

• Daily meals/snacks (if not included in your program)
• Daily transport between lodging and the school
• Going out/entertainment (dinners, bars, etc… )
• Souvenirs
• Cell phone/calling card use
• Internet use (Internet cafes or school fees)
• Weekend travel & excursions
• Incidentals: toiletries, film, batteries, etc… 

But don’t forget about these important budgeting factors:

• Airline extra charges (baggage, food, drinks, etc… )
• Airport arrival & departure taxes (see Don' Forget About Departure Tax for more info)
• Entry fees/tourist cards
• Visa extensions
• School activity fees not included in your program
• Book fees and deposits
• Lodging damage deposits
• Unexpected emergencies

Ways to save money

• ISIC: If you are a student, get an ISIC (International Student Identity Card). They cost a little over $20, and the savings you can get will really add up! Make sure to review the benefits carefully, and when in doubt, ask if you can get a discount, it can’t hurt!
• If going to Spain or Latin America, contact eXito Travel, specialists in airfare for those studying abroad.
• Skype: Skype is a wonderful tool to use while traveling. You can make free or cheap phone calls, surf the Internet on their worldwide WiFi, and much more. Find out more about Skype.
• Look into free events in your host city or country. Many great cultural experiences are available for free, check the Internet, or better yet, the local newspapers.
• Ask around for the most inexpensive place to shop for groceries
• Know how much the exchange rate is! Don’t get ripped off by finding the best place to exchange your currency. Universal Currency Convertor

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