STARS

Overview

The STARS program (Summer Training on Applied Research and Service Learning) is a collaborative initiative between Ohio University (OU) and the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador (PUCE). Building on over two decades of education abroad, STARS emphasizes community-based training and immersive cultural experiences in the rural communities of Ecuador.

Designed to offer students an enriched understanding of Ecuadorian culture, this program moves beyond the classroom, placing students directly in the heart of local communities. While STARS has historically focused on research, the 2025 program shifts towards experiential learning with a strong emphasis on cultural exposure and service-learning, allowing participants to actively engage with diverse populations and gain valuable insights into Ecuador’s rich cultural landscape.

Program Highlights

• Duration: 2 weeks - July 25 to August 6, 2025
• Locations: Quito, Cariamanga, Otavalo
• Focus: Cultural immersion, service-learning, community engagement
• Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students across all disciplines, regardless of prior research experience. Graduate students may participate on a case-by-case basis.

Why Join STARS?

• Cultural Immersion: Gain a firsthand understanding of Ecuador’s unique blend of traditions, history, and modern challenges by engaging directly with communities.
• Service Learning: Participate in hands-on projects that foster collaboration and mutual learning, such as community rebuilding efforts, educational workshops, and local industry exploration.
• Personal and Professional Growth: Develop cross-cultural communication skills, expand your global perspective, and learn to adapt to new and diverse environments.

What to Expect

The STARS program offers a transformative learning experience that blends cultural exploration with community service. Highlights include:

• Orientation in Quito: Engage with Ecuador’s major systems of power, including visits to key cultural and governmental institutions.
• Service Projects in Cariamanga: Spend a week collaborating with local communities on service projects such as rebuilding homes, conducting sex education workshops, and contributing to local documentation efforts.
• Exploration in Otavalo: Delve into the cultural and economic fabric of Otavalo, renowned for its indigenous market, traditional crafts, and unique industries.

Tentative Itinerary

• Day 1-2: Arrival and Orientation in Quito
• Day 3-8: Service learning and community engagement in Cariamanga
• Day 9-10: Cultural exploration in Otavalo, reflection, wrap-up, and departure
• (Note: The final itinerary is subject to change; confirmed dates will be provided closer to the program start date.)

Eligibility and Application Process

The STARS program welcomes applications from undergraduate students of all majors who are eager to immerse themselves in a culturally enriching and service-oriented experience. No prior research or Spanish language skills are required, though a willingness to engage fully with the local context is essential. Graduate students may also be considered, particularly those interested in the intersection of culture, community work, and service learning.

How to Apply: Check the requirements here

Application Deadline:

• Priority Deadline: December 15, 2024

Program Fee and Funding Opportunities

Spreadsheet with costs TBD.

Find funding opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is eligible for STARS? 
  • The program is open to undergraduate students from any discipline who are interested in cultural exposure and service learning.
• Is prior research experience required?
  • No, the 2025 program focuses on cultural and service learning rather than research. However, those interested in pursuing research opportunities can discuss possibilities on a case-by-case basis.
• Will there be opportunities for language practice?
  • While the program is designed to be accessible to non-Spanish speakers, basic language interactions will be part of the cultural experience.

Contact Us

For more information or to express interest, please reach out to batesb@ohio.edu. 

Partners

As part of the multidisciplinary and multinational approach, the STARS+ program works with Partners of the Americas, the Center for Research on Health in Latin America (CISeAL), the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador (PUCE), the Infectious and Tropical Disease Institute (ITDI), and Ohio University.