ucsc guide

ExchangeStudentGuidebook

2010 - 2011

Our

University Ministry3.6

Exchange Student Guidebook 2010 - 2011

Photographer - Axel KoehneAtacama Desert, Atacama Region


Chile:

Chile is known for its diverse geography.It is located on South America's narrow westerncoastline, between the Andes Mountains and thePacific Ocean.

The country stretches over 4,000 km, andencompasses a variety of different cultures, customs,and realities. Numerous production and serviceactivities are carried out in urban and rural areasalong the length of Chile. Each activity is adaptedto its surroundings: mountains, valleys, deserts,rivers, and ice.

The hot, dry desert climate makes theNorth an ideal place for tourist attractions andindustries such as mining and fishing. Furthermore,the night skies - among the clearest in the world- have turned this region into a hub of internationalastronomy, with state of the art observatoriesattracting scientists from around the world. TheSouth is a vast zone of lakes, rivers, indigenousflora and fauna, and cities and towns founded byChilean pioneers and European immigrants. Famousfor the deeds of sailors, explorers, and adventurers,Chile's broad Patagonian, Tierra del Fuego, andAntarctic territory also attract scientists and tourists. Both areas are considered to be some of the mostprecious natural reserves remaining on the planet.

Antofagasta Region

Conguillio, Araucania Region

Torres del Paine, Magallanes Region

Mauricio López


The Bío-Bío Region has been considered“the door to the South of Chile”. It is second inimportance in Chile, not only in population, but alsobecause of its industrial, petrochemical, port,forestry, and fishing development. It is formed bythe four provinces of Concepción, Ñuble, Arauco,and Bío Bío, which contain a total of 54 communes. The variety of its natural, cultural, and historicalresources is complemented with a varied offer oftourist services during the whole year.

CoastAlong the coast, beaches, coves and native

communities encourage tourists to practice nauticalsports, try seafood cuisine, and meet traditionalfishermen and Lafkenche families. The towns andcities invite visitors to get to know the importantport and industrial activities, and go to the depthsof the Earth in the only coal mine that goes underocean waters.

Lighthouse, Ramuntcho

Mapuches Photographer - Mario Ptasick


CobquecuraThis city of over 5,500 inhabitants is

located on the coast, about 110 km from Chillán. Although agriculture is the main economic activityof the area, its coastal location also provides anarray of seafood. The most outstanding aspectsof Cobquecura are its mild weather and naturallandscape. Its beaches provide crystal clear water,a regular temperature, and rough waves, excellentfor surfing and body boarding.

Tome and DichatoTome, whose history begins in 1544, is

the main textile port of Chile. Today, it has excellentbeaches and seafood restaurants. Dichato, whichin Mapudungun (the language of the Mapuchepeople) means “Naked”, is located 10 kilometersfrom Tome. Throughout the year, this beach townreceives many tourists who come to enjoy its beautyand tranquility, as well as its cuisine.

LotaTo know Lota is, without a doubt, to know

one of the most exciting chapters of the beginningof industrial activity in Chile. Marked by the discoveryof generous coal deposits, Lota was born and stillexists thanks to the mining activity. Although thecoal mines were closed in 1997, one, The Chiflóndel Diablo (The Devil's Draft), located some 850m under the sea, is open to the public for guidedtours. Other points of interest include Lota Park,Block 83, as well as several nearby beaches.

Cobquecura

Dichato

Carlos Point, Lota


Lanalhue LakeThis place, full of natural generosity, invites

visitors to enjoy absolute tranquility as well as learnthe traditions of ethnic Mapuches, as well as Germansettlers that have lived in Contulmo fore more thana Century, who have done their best to preserveparts of their culture.

Lleu-Lleu LakeLleu Lleu Lake is located a few kilometers

from the Pacific Ocean, among native forests,agricultural prairies, and river valleys. Its watersare the purest of Latin America, and it is one ofthe last natural reserves of the region. Touristactivities allow visitors to get acquainted with theMapuche culture: its cuisine, music, dance,ceremonies, medicine, handicrafts, language andtraditional games. In addition, there are manyoptions for outdoor activities.

Central ValleyIn the center valley, the wine route of the

Itata Valley, agro-tourism, handicraft markets, andmuseums are the main attractions. This zoneinvites visitors to discover an ambient full of traditionsand history that permit the development ofagricultural , rural , and urban tourism.

Lanalhue, Lake

Lleu Lleu, Lake

Las Turbinas, Yungay


ChillánThe city of Chillan is the capital of the

Ñuble province. The city was founded in 1580,and plays an important role in Chile's history.Chillán is the birthplace of Bernardo O'Higgins,Chile's national hero from its struggle forindependence, as well as some famous nationalartists, such as Claudio Arrau, Ramón Vinay, andMarta Colvin.

QuillonThe city of Quillon, the “Tourist Capital of

the Itata Valley”, is characterized by the quality ofits people, the beauty of the natural scenery, andits delightful micro-climate that makes it ideal forfruit farming, grape growing, and wine making,along with other agricultural activities. Some callit the “Valley of the Sun”. There are also manycabins and camp grounds, especially near itsAvendaño Lagoon, which makes it a populardestination.

Cathedral Chillán

Handicraft Market, Quillón

Countryside, Quillón


Wine RouteThe Itata Valley, the southernmost grape

and wine growing zone of Chile, has a humid,Mediterranean climate; therefore the temperatureof the area is slightly lower than those of the northernvalleys. This condition, along with good soil quality,adequate light, and clearly defined seasons, havemade these lands grow their best fruits year afteryear. The Itata Valley Vineyard, Casa de GingerWinery, Tierra y Fuego Vineyard, Tierra de ArrauVineyard, Larqui's Wines, Casanueva Vineyard, andMännle Vineyard are all located along the Route.

Laja WaterfallsThis important tourist attraction is formed

by four independent waterfalls. The surroundinglandscape is made up of semi desert nativevegetation.

MountainsThe generous Andean Mountain Range,

with its thermal waters and winter resorts, receiveslovers of the great outdoors. Main attractions includenumerous protected wild areas and the presenceof the Pehuenche ethnic group. Skiing, rafting, zip-line, rock climbing, hiking, horseback riding, andfishing are some of the activities that can be practicedin these impressive Andean landscapes that attractvisitors because of their majesty and beauty.

San Fabian de AlicoAt San Fabian de Alico, visitors discover its

fascinating nature and enjoy the friendship of itspeople, as well as traditional Chilean cuisine. It isthe perfect place to set off and explore the nearbyhills and mountains, hike, and fish, among otheractivities.

Wine Route, Quillón

Laja Waterfalls, Laja

Las Trancas Valley, Pinto


Alto Bío-Bío and Ralco National ReserveThe geographical area of Alto Bío-Bío

belongs to the Andean Mountain Range, and it ismainly inhabited by the Pehuenche ethniccommunities that are located alongside the valleysof the Queco and Bío-Bío Rivers. Thanks to theabundant native vegetation, this zone is a wonderfulplace to be with nature. Its inhabitants welcomethose who wish to visit this beautiful place, andlearn the traditions, legends, and customs of thePehuenche community, by participating in the worksof Andean life.

In the area of the Ralco National visitorscan observe natural flora and fauna, includingAraucaria trees, pumas, and condors. One of themain attractions of the reserve is the CallaquiVolcano, which is characterized by its constantsnow-covered peak. The reserve has severalauthorized trails that permit trekking.

Las Trancas Valley and Chillán's Hot SpringsLas Trancas is considered a privileged

mountain village, located at the foot of the AndeanMountain Range. One can observe majestic Oaks,Lengas, and Coigües, impressive waterfalls, cliffs,and during the winter, an abundance of snow, andthe awesome Chillán Volcano. Chillán's Hot Springsis currently one of the best and most known skiresorts of South America. It is located 1,600 metersabove sea level, in the midst of the Andean MountainRange. During the summer months, visitors canalso partake in trekking, mountain biking, and rockclimbing in the area.

Antuco and Laja Lagoon National ParkThis area is located 62 km east of the city

of Los Angeles, on the border of the central valleyand at the foot of El Mirador Hill. It has a privilegedlocation, because it is the only connecting areabetween the Bío-Bío Region and Argentina (thePichachén Pathway, which is only open during thesummer). The Antuco Volcano is located 2,985meters above sea level, and is considered one ofthe sharpest volcano peaks of the world. It is mainlyused for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, andhiking in the summer.

Photographer - Álvaro RivasRalco National Reserve

Ski Resort, Chillan

Laja Lagoon, Laja Photographer - Francisco Larrea


Concepción was founded in 1550 by Pedrode Valdivia, in what is today known as Penco. In1751, an earthquake and tsunami destroyed thecity, and in 1764, the city was moved to its presentlocation. Currently, the city is the main culturalcenter of the Southern-Central zone, a UniversityCity, and seat of numerous congresses and seminars. Important art galleries, outstanding mural paintings,and museums form part of the attractions of thiscity that unites culture, history, and nature.

It has excellent air-land and railroadconnections that join the city with the rest of thecountry. From Carriel Sur Airport, located in theinter-commune of Concepción-Talcahuano, visitorscan travel daily to any part of the country andconnect with international flights. The metropolitanarea, with about 1,000,000 inhabitants, constitutesthe financial, commercial, and service center of theregion.

Places of Interest

Plaza Independencia

This plaza was given this name becauseit is where Chile proclaimed its independence onJanuary 1st, 1818. At present, it is located in thecenter of the city, permitting a chance to rest underthe shade of its trees while visiting the city.

Downtown Concepción

Plaza Independencia Concepción


Catedral de la Santísima Concepción

Located across from the Plaza de laIndependencia, it was built between the years 1940and 1950 by the architects Carlos Casanueva,Fernando Urrejola, and Ramón Vega Venegas.Among its most valuable works are the engravedwooden ceiling, stained glass, religious paintings,and a polychromatic wooden image of the InmaculadaConcepción which dates from the 17th Century.

Ecuador Park

This park, located close to the city center,has a variety of native trees, bushes, and greatextensions of green grass, athletic fields,playgrounds, and recreational trails. It is a favoriteof families, especially on weekends.

Caracol Hill

It is the highest hill in the city, at 256m.Here one can find trails surrounded by both nativevegetation and introduced species. Climbing upthe hill, one can access different viewpoints, whichoffer amazing views of the city and the Bío-Bío River.

Monitor Huascar

This ship has a glorious past, which is whyit was transformed into a floating museum thatopens its doors day after day to those who want tolearn about its history. It has been maintained ina perfect condition of conservation. For peoplewho like ships, history, and the sea landscape, thisis undoubtedly an excellent place to visit.

Catedral de la Santísima Concepción

View from Caracol Hill

Monitor Huascar


Tumbes Park and Cove

Tumbes Park is an excellent place toobserve native flora and fauna, including copihues(Chile's national flower), swallows, and some penguinspecies. The park is part of a project to recoverand protect the “Green Lung” located on thesouthern end of Tumbes Peninsula. The park hasa field of 20 ha., whose greatest asset is one of thelast fragments of coastal native forest, that at onetime filled the area.

The cove is located on the northern endof Tumbes Peninsula. It is known for its qualityfishermen and construction of fishing boats. Forsome years, access to the cove was controlled bythe Chilean Navy, and was limited to its residents. Today, the cove is open to the public.

Lenga CoveThis quaint fishing community settled in

the coastal border of San Vicente Bay has developedan attractive gastronomic offer, where visitors canenjoy delicious seafood dishes. It is located 16kmfrom Concepción, in the commune of Hualpén.

Tumbes Cove

Lenga Cove

Lenga Cove


Pedro del Río Zañartu Museum andPark

The house, originally inhabited by Pedrodel Rio Zañartu, today holds over 3,000 objectsthat don Pedro (1840 - 1918) collected duringfour trips he made around the world, from 1880 -1913. Among the objects are oriental cabinet work,weapons, coins, pipes, religious works of art, Egyptianart, an Egyptian mummy, Mapuche and Hindusilverware, precious stones, and objects of naturalart. The house and the park are open to the publicwho wish to visit its rooms and halls.

Jorge Alessandri Rodriguez EducationalPark

Visiting this park, experiencing and enjoyingits beauty, is an alternative for those that enjoyopen air activities and photography. It has a numberof trails and viewpoints. There are guided tours forthose who would like to enter the native forests.

Pedro del Río Zañartu Museum

Jorge Alessandri Rodriguez Educational Park


The Universidad Católica de la SantísimaConcepción was founded on July 10th, 1991, byordinance of the Bishop of the Archdiocese of theSantísima Concepción, Monsignor Antonio MorenoCasamitjana. The regional branch campus of thePontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Talcahuano,created in 1970, provided the foundation for thenew University.

The University is a private entity, receivingsome state support. Legally autonomous, it is amember of the Council of Rectors of ChileanUniversities. This is a network of so-called traditionaluniversities, in other words, those working withinthe main scientific and intellectual frameworks ofour country. Furthermore, the University is amember of the Chilean Chapter of CatholicUniversities and the International Federation ofCatholic Universities (FIUC). The University maintainsclose ties with the Archbishop of Concepción, whohappens to be the University's Chancellor, its highestauthority, with all of the attributes established withinthe University statutes.

Currently, it has 2 institutes and 7 faculties(Institute of Theology, Faculty of Law; Faculty ofSciences; Faculty of Education; Faculty ofEngineering; Faculty of Medicine; Faculty of Economicand Administrative Sciences; Faculty ofCommunication, History and Social Sciences andthe Technological Institute). They provideundergraduate and graduate level courses, whichare complemented by considerable research andsustained academic extension.

Although the University is also active inthe cities of Chillán, Los Angeles, and Cañete, bothits main campus and its main offices are located inthe city of Concepción.

Santo Domingo Campus

San Andrés, Campus

San Andrés, Campus


University Mission and Vision

Because of its origin and nature, theuniversity's mission springs directly from theframework established by the Roman Catholic Churchfor all Catholic universities in the ApostolicConstitution on Catholic Universities by Pope JohnPaul II Ex Corde Eclessiae. The mission can beexpressed as follows:

To lead research, teaching, and communityservice, in accordance with the ethical principles ofChristian faith.

The University has a clear vision of itsfuture expectations:

A center of excellence in the search ofknowledge and radiation of the truth for the goodof humanity.

This objective is closely related to the “ExCorde Eclessiae”, and consequently, to itsDeclaration of Principles.

The University Community

The university community is over 8,000strong, including students, faculty, and administrativestaff. This community is geared toward thedevelopment of teaching, learning, and researchin the various majors that are offered within diversefields of knowledge. Determined to be agents ofprogress in the Bío-Bío Region and in the country,the community always shows its Catholic nature,acting ethically and in accordance with Christianvalues.

Students at the Universidad Católica de laSantísima Concepción are afforded the necessarytools and academic support for guiding theirprofessional training through graduation. Thestudents are prepared to enter society as solidlyeducated professionals, able to serve the socialcontext into which they are inserted.

San Andrés, Campus

San Andrés, Campus

Photographer - Alejandro Arros


As a community with a teaching vocation,University members have Master's and Doctoraldegrees in a variety of areas: theology, law, medicine,engineering, economics, education, sciences, andcommunication. Faculty members are devoted toteaching, research, and the extension of theiracademic work in compliance with the guidingprincipals of a Catholic university.

The support of the administrative staff indecision-making, executive, and technical areasenables the University to comply with its mission ofeducating and serving the region by responding toboth internal and social needs. The University'sadministrators supply the strength necessary tomake the decisions that will lead to the achievementof the institutional objectives of a Catholic university.

International Affairs

The Office of International Affairs, whichoversees the internationalization of the University,is responsible for all aspects of student exchange,both incoming and outgoing. The main goal is toincrease the number of UCSC students who studyabroad, and increase the number of foreign studentswho come to the UCSC. Please feel free to contactus with any questions:

Mr. Gonzalo Bordagaray, Director+(56) (41) 273 [email protected]

Ms. Mary Hayes, Assistant and Student ExchangeCoordinator+(56) (41) 246 [email protected]

Mrs. Liliana Lagos, Secretary+(56) (41) 273 [email protected]

International Affairs

1.4San Andres, Campus

UCSC student in Malaysia


2

rospective studentsP

UCSC file


ur Student Exchange ProgramsO

UCSC file

2.1

The UCSC can offer the following plans, or anycombination of them, depending on the needs of thestudents:1.Semester Programs. International Students can takethe regular courses offered by the University's differentFaculties during the 1st (March - July) and/or 2nd (August- December) semester. In these courses, students willhave the opportunity to:-Take classes with Chilean students-Obtain academic credit-Practice the Spanish Language

2.Visiting Research Students. Undergraduate or graduatestudents from foreign universities may do research workat the UCSC, working with a professor who specializesin the students´ topic or area of interest.

3.Spanish for Foreigners. The University can offer Spanishcourses during its regular semesters or during summerbreak (both in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres). The courses are offered at beginning, intermediate, andadvanced levels, and can vary between 40 and 180hours, based on the students' needs.

4.Courses in English. The UCSC also offers a number ofcourses in English, aimed at international students. Theobjective is to give an idea of the Chilean and LatinAmerican reality in terms of economy, science, and otherareas. Some of these courses are:International AccountingLatin American EconomicsEarthquakes and Tsunamis in Chile

5.Internship Programs. Undergraduate students mayinquire about doing an internship with the UCSC. Subjectto limitations in areas and availability. Please contactthe Office of International Affairs for more information

6.Summer Programs. The UCSC also offers summerprograms that last from 4 to 6 weeks, in the areas Chile'sflora and fauna, history, and culture. Some of theseprograms are offered in English, while others are inSpanish. Courses are offered in July and January.


Prices given in May of 2009, and are subject to change without notification.

ees and CostsF2.2

Tuition 1. Students from universitiesthat have agreementswith the UCSC do nothave istrationfees uition at theUCSC.

2. Students who come fromuniversities that do nothave agreements withthe UCSC will have to paytuition, depending on theprogram and number ofcredits they will take.

Housing The UCSC does not have studentresidences. Foreign students willbe placed in a home – stay,which average about US $400per month.

Transportation The average fare on publictransportation costs about US$0.75.

Extras We estimate that with about US$200 per month, foreign studentswould have more than enoughmoney for entertainment andother extras. (Not including anylarge trips or purchases)


A2.3

pplication and visaHow to Apply

First, foreign students should complete any internal application process that their home university has,regardless if there is an agreement or not with the UCSC. Students who do not apply through their University'sInternational or Study Abroad Office will not be accepted.

Once students have been pre-selected by their home university, they can find our application on lineat (http://rrii.ucsc.cl/extranjeroseng/postulacion_eng.php). We ask that students send us an online version, andmail us a printed copy. The printed copy should be signed by the student and their Tutor or Director ofInternational Affairs. In addition to the completed International Students Application Form, we will need thefollowing documents:

- Photocopy of passport information page- Brief Curriculum Vitae- Letter from Tutor or Director of International Affairs.- Student's Motivation Letter- Two Passport size photographs- Health Insurance (you must send a copy after receiving the Acceptance Letter from UCSC).

All documents must be sent to:

Mary HayesAssistant and Study Abroad CoordinatorDirección de Relaciones InstitucionalesUniversidad Católica de la Santísima ConcepciónCaupolicán 491Concepción, [email protected]

Application Deadlines1st Semester (March - July): December 1st of the previous year.2nd Semester (August - December): May 1st of the same year.

VisasAll foreign students must obtain a student Visa before coming to Chile to study. Students should apply

for an E-1 Visa (first student visa) or an E-2 Visa (extension of a student visa), depending on their situation.Fore more information, contact your local Chilean Consulate, or visit the Chilean Department of Foreign Affairsand Immigration Web page (http://www.extranjeria.gov.cl/ingles/).


nsuranceIAll foreign students applying to the UCSC must have medical insurance for their time in Chile. Once

the letter of acceptance from the UCSC has been received, students must show proof of insurance to the Officeof Foreign Affairs.

reparing for ChilePClimate

The Bío-Bío Region has mild warm weather; the dry and rainy seasons are similar, although the coastalstretch experiences more rainfall and humidity. In Concepción, the average high temperature in the summeris 19ºC (66ºF), and the average low is 13ºC (55ºF). In the winter, the average high is 12ºC (53ºF), and theaverage low is 7ºC (44ºF). However, in the interior of the region, the average temperatures are more extreme.The maximum temperature in the summer reaches 28ºC (82ºF), and the minimum temperature in the winteraverages 2ºC (36ºF).

In the Andean Mountain Range, a cold height climate develops together with abundant rainfall; morethan 2,000 mm of rain per year and low temperatures cause a permanent presence of snow in the heights ofthe mountains. Annual rainfall reaches 1,239 mm in Concepción. The months of April to September areconsidered the wet season, while the months of December to March are considered the dry season.

Students coming in the fall and winter months (April - August) should be prepared to dress in layers. A raincoat and boots are recommended, as stretches of rain are common. During the spring and summermonths (September - March) students can expect warmer weather and less rain, but should take into accountthat the temperature drops in the evening. Sweaters and/or jackets are advisable.


How to Get to Concepción

All International flights coming to Chile arrive at Arturo Merino Benitez Airport (SCL), in Santiago. Fromtheir, students have three options for traveling to Concepción:

1. By Plane: Students may take a flight from Santiago to Concepción's Carriel Sur Airport (CCP). Twoairlines offer service to Concepción: Lan Airlines (http://www.lan.com/cgi-bin/country_selector.cgi) and SkyAirline (https://www.skyairline.cl/default.aspx). Remember, travelers arriving to Chile will have to go throughImmigration and Customs in Santiago, before continuing to Concepción.

2. By Train: Students also have the option to take a train, departing from Santiago's Estación Central(Av. Alameda 3170). The train will leave them in the city of Chillán, where they take a connecting bus toConcepción (http://www.efe.cl/html/transporte/chillan.php).

3. By Bus: The third option students have is taking a Bus from Santiago's Terminal Santiago (Av. B.O'Higgins 3848, http://www.terminaldebusessantiago.cl/), or Terminal Alameda (Av. B. O'Higgins 3750). Ingeneral, the companies Eme Bus, Pullman Bus, and Tur Bus offer good service, with frequent departures duringthe day.

Miscellaneous

Please keep the following in mind as you are planning to come:

- Remember that you need to have a valid passport, as well as a Visa in order to study in Chile.- You are required to have medical insurance during your stay in Chile. This insurance is your responsibility. A copy must be sent to International Affairs before you travel.- Make sure you give your arrival information (Flight Number, form of arriving to Concepción, etc) to the International Office.- In Chile, voltage/frequency is 220 Volts/50 Hertz. Most outlets accept plugs that have two round pins

- Students should not have a problem using major credit cards and ATM cards in Concepción. Moneycan also be exchanged at various places downtown. There are also Western Union offices where one can send and receive money.- Remember any personal belongings, medication, etc. that you will need during your stay.


UCSC file


3.1

etting to the UCSCG

UCSC file

Students should plan on arriving to theInternational Affairs office, located at UCSCheadquarters (Casa Central), in downtownConcepción, a week before classes begin. CasaCentral's address is Caupolican 491 (betweenBarros Arana and O'Higgins), and can be foundacross from the Plaza de la Independencia.

Students must check in with the office,and then begin the process of registering their visa,and applying for their Chilean ID number and card. Students will not be able to register for classesuntil they have done this.

Casa Central


International students should be clear as to what courses they will be taking before they come to

Concepción. Upon arrival to the UCSC, foreign students must register for classes at the Dirección de Admisión

y Registro Académico (DARA - Office of Admissions and Academic Records). This office is located at the San

Andrés Campus. DARA will take the student's picture, and will also give students their library card, their password

for the Intranet, and other important information. When applicable, DARA will give students a bill for their classes.

Students will then have to go to Tesorería (Treasury Office) in order to pay for their courses. This is also done

on the San Andrés Campus.

The University does not have dormitory facilities for international students. The Office of International

Affairs will place foreign students in appropriate home stays near the University. The cost of home stays average

around US $400 per month. The Office of International Affairs does its best to find a family that meets each

students' requirements.



The Office of Student Health is made up of amultidisciplinary health team, with professionals in:medicine, psychology, dentistry, nutrition and nursing,offering free services to students.

The Medicine Unit offers first aid in generalmedicine. Here, students can relieve a diagnosis, aswell as information on any treatment that should besought and received.

The Nursing Unit offers basic clinical attention,as well as the medicine prescribed by the Medicine andDentistry Units.

The Dentistry Unit offers clinical exams,emergency dental care, minor surgeries, and prophylaxis.

The Psychology Unit provides the necessarysupport to the student that has problems which affecttheir academic performance, and/or those with mentalhealth problems, through individual clinical service, andthe development of workshops.

The Nutrition Unit gives diet education,anthropometric measurements, and diets according toassociated pathologies. They also provide consultancyand special diets to the University's cafeteria.

UCSC file

Student Health Office

UCSC file

University Ministry

3.5

The UCSC, through the Office of UniversityMinistry, makes it possible for faculty members, staffmembers, and students to strengthen their project ofa Catholic Christian life. Students are encouraged toserve those most in need in the community, by formingpart of the different groups that are coordinated byUniversity Ministry and the Faculties.

UCSC file



Extracurricular, Cultural and Sporting Activities

3.6

UCSC file

Extracurricular:

The UCSC, through the Office of Artisticand Cultural Extension, offers extracurricular coursesand workshops. These courses normally haveadditional fees associated with them, butinternational students, like UCSC students, have a50% discount towards these courses. Past courseshave included: Claymation, Digital Cinema, ClassicalGuitar, Introduction to Greek, and Storytelling.Please note that these courses are offered inSpanish.

Cultural Activities:

Casa Central, the UCSC's headquarters,located in downtown Concepción, has an art gallery,a great hall (Aula Magna), as well as the Museumof Religious Art. The art gallery, which is open tothe public, has exhibitions of regional, national,and international artists throughout the year. TheAula Magna hosts a variety of events, includingconcerts, theater, cinema, and literary readings.The Museum of Religious Art has a permanentcollection of Catholic art and artifacts on display.

Sports:

University Teams: The UCSC has men'sand women's teams in basketball, volleyball, football(soccer), and table tennis.

Intramural Sports: International studentswould be allowed to form and/ or participate inintramural teams at the UCSC. Students participatein futbolito, babyfutbol, basketball, and table tennisteams.



Photographer - Paz Correa

Extracurricular, cultural and sporting Activities

UCSC file

Classes: International students are invited andencouraged to participate in the classes offered bythe Office of Sports and Recreation. These includespinning, aerobic dance, Latin American dance,Chilean Dance, Spanish dance, aerobox, table tennis,fitball, and football (soccer). There is also anexercise room where students can access differentexercise equipment. Please not that these coursesare offered in Spanish.

Sport Facilities:

The UCSC has the following facilities. Ifstudents wish to use them, they must make areservation with the Office of Sports and Recreation:

Gymnasium A: Indoor court with seatingcapacity for 500 people. This is the where theUniversity Basketball and Volleyball teams practiceand play.Gymnasium B: A multi-purpose gym, whereactivities such as babyfutbol, dance classes andaerobics classes take place.Gymnasium C: A multi-purpose gym for sportsthat do not require balls, such as weight lifting,karate, table tennis, and physical training takeplace.Synthetic Field: Field made of synthetic grass,which is used for futbolito.Tennis Courts: There are two tennis courtsavailable for the University community. Studentsmust supply their own equipment.

Photographer - Paz Correa


Testimonies

4

Life in Concepción

Mary Hayes, originally from the U.S., works in the International Affairs Office, andhas been living in Concepción since 2003.

After having lived in Santiago a couple of months, I was told that I was beingtransferred to Concepción. The truth is I did not know what to expect from the city. All I wastold was that it has a lot of universities, green areas, and rain in the winter. I discovered thatwhile all of this is true, there is more to it.

It's true. In addition to the UCSC, Concepción houses 4 other “traditional” Chileanuniversities, as well as a number of private universities and institutes. Like the UCSC, the otherUniversities also have theaters, auditoriums, art galleries, etc. There are constant and multiplecultural activities throughout the year, including film cycles, opera, and literary readings. Thereare also sporting events and lectures offered during the year. Some don't realize it, but thepresence of these universities really adds to the quality of life in Concepción.

It's hard not to notice the green areas in the city. Hills and parks can be foundthroughout Concepción, including its downtown area. As Concepción is a compact city, oneof its most impressive aspects is its proximity to natural and rural areas. One of my favoriteplaces in Concepción is the Desembocadura - the mouth of the Bío-Bío River. Located withina protected natural area, it is about 20 minutes from downtown. Here you can explorebeaches, rock formations, and hills. Chileans can be spotted fishing, picnicking, and even windsurfing here.

Concepción can feel like both a modern city and a small town. On the one hand,Concepción offers modern health, shopping, and telecommunication services. A modernairport, as well as two bus terminals, and major highways connect the city with the rest of thecountry. Two major hospitals, in addition to a number of private clinics, serve the health needsof the area. At the Mall Plaza del Trebol, as well as several of the large supermarkets, onecan find the international products and brands they are familiar with. Cell phones and internetare an essential part of life here. One can even find WiFi service in the mall, the Plaza deIndependencia, the airport, and certain cafés and restaurants.

At the same time, there are remnants of a smaller city or town. Travel times anddistances are very short when compared to other cities. One can still find small specialtystores, especially in the downtown area. There are even ferias (farmers markets) in residentialneighborhoods that offer fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as other items. And after beinghere for a while, you'll start to run into somebody you know almost anywhere you go.

All in all, I feel that Concepción offers a safe environment for foreign students toexperience Chile. Its proximity to national parks, ski resorts, and beaches, as well as its friendlyresidents, make for an unforgettable experience.



TestimoniesChristine Müller is a Medicine student fromUniversität Ulm (Germany) who did a clinical internshipwith us at the Hospital Herminda Martin in Chillán.

I came to the UCSC through an agreementwith Ulm University (Germany). This experience hasbeen extremely gratifying for me, as I was able tobe in direct contact with patients and test the truevocation of service. The work in the hospital didn'tseem very different from a hospital in Germany ofapproximately the same size. Of course, in Germanythe use of technology such as MRT or scanner ismore frequent, but in the end the results seem tome to be the same very often. In Chile, I saw somediseases that don't exist in Germany, which was veryinteresting for me. The relationship between doctorsand students in surgery was very relaxed and theyalways had time to explain things or answer to thestudent's questions. Also, the fact that they haveenfermeras (nurses) in the hospital was differentfor me, as it is a study program we don't have inGermany. It seemed to be clearly defined who wasin charge of what kind of work. Interacting with myclassmates, teachers, and patients was not a problemat all, even though I had some problems with thelanguage. The patients were always very nice tome, and always asked me about were I am from,and whether I liked Chile or not.

The truth is I love Chile, particularly for thepeople living there. It was a great pleasure for mehaving experienced so much kindness and open-mindedness to a foreign person. They really mademe feel at home in Chile. The other thing I reallyliked was its diverse geography. I saw so many niceplaces, pure nature; it was unbelievable. You canfind everything: desert, beach, high mountains,glaciers, lakes, forests, and all well preserved.

I recommend to everybody who has thechance to come and get to know Chile to do it. Itwas such a great experience for me, and I wouldreally love to have stayed. I have never felt thataccepted and integrated in a foreign country.

UCSC file


TestimoniesAndreas Pavlou

Before coming to the UCSC, I was reallyworried about what to expect when I arrived in Chileand my expectations here at the university. However,they were very helpful in communicating before myarrival about everything that I needed to know. Theyhelped with pre-arrival planning and I felt moresecure and excited than nervous and scared whenI finally came over. Life at the university seems rathermuch the same as life at any other university whichmakes settling in very easy and stress-free. Everyoneis helpful and friendly, and the students areparticularly keen in finding out more about you andwhere you are from and teach you about Chile itself.The close relationship between teachers and studentswas a pleasant surprise when I started working hereas it made the UCSC seem much more like a familythan simply a working environment. Making friendsand getting involved in the university has beeneffortless, and any language barrier is quickly broughtdown. Being part of the English department makesthis much simpler of course, but even with studentsfrom other departments, language does not seemto hold back their enthusiasm to get to know you.

Chile itself is amazing. It has that SouthAmerican feel to it, but with the modern technologicalelements you would expect of Europe. People areso friendly and interested in you when they find outyour not Chilean, whether your in a shop buyinggroceries or in a bar at the weekend. Concepcionitself is great too; it has all the amenities of a bigcity, but is compact enough for you not too feel likeyou are lost. As a country, it has so much to offeras well - you can find everything - from the Andesin the east to the unspoilt beaches in the west,desert to the north, and glaciers in the south.

If you have the opportunity to come herethen I would say you have to do it. Not every dayyou get to work or study in South America in auniversity that is so comfortable and welcoming -this truly is a once in a lifetime experience.

UCSC file


Acknowledgements

5

This guide was created in collaboration with:

Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepciónwww.ucsc.cl

Servicio Nacional de Turismo (SERNATUR)www.sernatur.cl

Alejandro Arros, PhotographerClaudio Bustos, PhotographerPaz Correa, PhotographerAnnais Ferreira, PhotographerValentina Garrido, PhotographerHugh Honeymann, PhotographerMauricio López. PhotographerFrancisco Larrea, photographerAxel Koehne, PhotographerAntonio Olea, PhotographerMario Ptasick, PhotographerÁlvaro Rivas, PhotographerCarlos Rosso, Photographer

ucsc guide

Documents

south of chile

length of chile

bobo region

seafood cuisine

anarray of seafood

seafood restaurants

andes mountains

towns andcities