Ecuador » USFQ » Living in Quito

Living in Quito

Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, Quito is the center of Ecuador's political and cultural activity. Colonial churches and cathedrals as well as the art and artifacts of a diverse indigenous population illustrate Quito's rich history. Narrow cobblestone streets of the Old City instantly provide contrast with the modern office buildings and avenues just a few blocks away.

At 2,800 meters (9,200 ft.) above sea level and just 21 kilometers (13 miles) south of the equator, Quito enjoys two distinct seasons: the dry season (summer, June to September) and the rainy season (winter, October to May). The combination of the elevation and proximity to the equator most often provides Quito with mild days and cool nights.

Accommodations:

Students live with local Ecuadorian host families in order to best gain exposure to daily life in Quito and to improve their Spanish language skills. Host families are carefully selected and are in frequent communication with the Resident Director.

Families are matched with students based on mutual interests. As part of the application and preparation process, students will complete a homestay questionnaire to indicate preferences and specific needs. Program staff have a successful record of matching students and families, and working to help students blend successfully with Ecuadorian culture and family life.

Students should plan to commute on public transportation from their homestay to the University. Public buses in Quito are inexpensive by U.S. standards.

Students remaining on the program for the academic year have the option of living independently after their first term.

On-Site Support:

Students in Quito are supported by the experienced full-time Resident Director and Program Associate in the Oregon Study Center there. They will help with housing and orientation, advise you on academic issues, and provide logistical and personal support as needed. In addition to OUS program staff, the International Office at USFQ provides academic and administrative support to all international students at the University.