Morocco Teenager Study Abroad

Program Snapshot Age Range: 16-18 Fun Ranking: Intensity: Some Homework Staff/Student: 1:10 Curfew: Enforced by host family

Rabat Junior Immersion

Rabat is the capital of the Kingdom of Morocco. The society of Rabat is comprised of Sunni Muslims of Arab, Berber decent, and a mixed group of Arab-Berber groups. Rabat has been loyal to its age-old traditions and cultures, not only in lifestyles, but also in its architectural style. Rabat has managed to modernize without losing the richness and beauty of the past and is a quiet and safe city without the hustle of the larger cities. Rabat’s central location allows students to explore other great Moroccan cities. Casablanca and the Imperial Moroccan capitals of Meknes, Marrakesh, and Fez are within easy reach by bus or train.

School Facilities: Located in the prestigious residential area of Souissi, the neighborhood streets around the school are wide, with large private gardens. There is shopping, restaurants, teahouses, many foreign embassies and a gym within a 5-10 minute walk of the school. In addition, the Royal Palace, Royal Dar es Salaam Golf Club, equestrian clubs, the beach and a large western style shopping mall only a short distance away.

The air-conditioned school building combines new architectural style with old and is enclosed within its own tranquil garden, away from the every day hustle and bustle of city life in Morocco. The front entrance offers traditional style architecture with a beautiful reception area decorated by mosaics. The 7 large and well-lit classrooms are a mix of traditionally decorated ceilings and modern furniture, all with large windows over looking the garden. In addition, students have access to a small library, cafeteria, large student kitchen, patio and computers with high speed internet access. Participants are mixed nationalities mainly from the US and Europe. Students will stay with a host family and be provided 3 meals/day (lunch will be provided at the school).

Activities/Excursions: Four afternoon activities are offered per week. Activities are conducted in both Arabic and English and supervised by school staff. Activities could include: Lectures on Moroccan or Arab culture, video showings of Arabic films, barbecue in school garden, bowling, visits to Maamore forest, madina souks, the Oudaya, Hasaan Tower, the Royal Palace, Museum of Art, Medina and perhaps a boat trip on the Bou regreg (river). One half day and one full day excursion are guided by school staff will be offered per week within Rabat and other popular destinations such as: the historic city of Fez, Meknes a UNESCO world heritage site, Kenitra, the famous city of Volubilis with its Roman ruins and Casablanca to name a few.

Lodging & Meals: Homestay with 3 meals/day

Supervision: This program is designed for mature, independent thinking teenagers. The program offers students the experience of living & studying in a foreign country, meeting other students of the same age, studying with older students during class time, experiencing and adapting to the local culture (very different from back home) and given the independence to explore. An experienced staff is present during language classes, activities and excursions. Overall students will have independence and little supervision; however, there are strict school & accommodation rules and curfews to obey. IMPORTANT: A dress code is required for both males and females at school: Shirts should have sleeves, no exposed midriffs or undergarments, knees should be covered, no offensive slogans on t-shirts.

To/From School: Students will travel to/from the school on their own every day - normally by public transit, walking or by taxi. Taxis will cost about $3-5 each way, Bus $2 each way however many host families are within walking distance.

Other: IMPORTANT: Those students who have no previous Arabic language skills must learn the names of the letters & the basic alphabet on their own before arrival. Students will receive guidance on learning the alphabet before the course begins.

Prices/Dates (for 2008):