Study and serve in Kerala, India
What can I study?
As part of the Alma-India Program you have a chance to do volunteer/service work as well as take classes in philosophy, religion, sustainability and rural development. Your volunteer work in the Mathen Mappilai Memorial School in Ayroor, India, and other local organizations, such as health clinics, earns you eight Alma College credits. In addition, you will typically attend Mahatma Ghandi University once a week for lectures, discussions and use of the library and facilities.
Why India?
The school in Ayroor, Kerala, about 50 miles inland on India’s southwest tip. The city has an artistic and highly literate culture - English is widely spoken alongside Kerala’s native language Malayalam. There is a great deal of religious diversity and the area has a stunning environmental beauty with tropical greenery, coastal backwaters and breathtaking mountain ranges.
The school was founded in 1991 and the late Bishop Thomas Mar Makarios, Professor of Religious Studies at Alma College, was the patron and president. The school is an English medium school consisting of grades K-12, with all traditional subjects taught in English. Students also are required to take two language courses: Malayalam, the language spoken in Kerala, and Hindi, one of India’s most widely-spoken languages.
What are the requirements?
Freshmen, sophomores and juniors may apply for the program. Applicants should have strong academic credentials, be open to new ideas and experiences and approach the world with self-confidence. Because Alma-India participants represent the College and, indirectly, the U.S. while in India, they must have a command of the English language and general knowledge of the people, history, and economy of the U.S. and India.
Personal maturity, sensitivity to the needs and problems of others, patience in the face of sometimes exasperating and frustrating situations, empathy with people of a culture unlike one’s own and resourcefulness is essential. Final admission is contingent upon acceptance to the program by Alma College.
Where will I live?
You will live in a home directly adjacent to the school. The three bedrooms and two bathroom house is comfortable and well maintained by its owners Sunny and Grace Eapen, who live on the second floor. Bed linens are provided. Food and cooking utensils will be provided to you at the home. Typically, you will make your own lunch and a cook will prepare breakfast and dinner. With ample local markets, you will be able to purchase local products and to explore Indian cuisine on your own.
How much will it cost?
Program services include:
- Pre and post advising
- Alma College tuition for 16 credits
- Room
- Internet access
- Transportation costs associated with academic work
- Educational excursions
- Round trip transportation between the airport and school
- International Student ID Card
- Limited insurance
Semester Program Fees: You will pay published tuition, fees, and room and board.
Summer Program Fees: You will pay the costs associated with the program and a $500 summer enrollment fee.
What do I need?
Travel to India requires a passport, which must be valid at least 180 days beyond the end of the program.
A visa is required. An application and instructions will be included in the acceptance packet.
How do I get started?
To begin the application process, visit the Academic and Career Planning Office (basement of the library). All applications are submitted to each program through the ACP Office on the student’s behalf.
