Snapshot

Minimum GPA: 2.50

Terms and Dates:

  • Fall 2019
  • Spring 2020
  • Fall 2020
  • Spring 2021

Advisor:

Kristen Grace

Cornell Affiliations:

Global Learning

Off-campus partner:

CIEE

This Opportunity is Currently in Draft

Overview

Opportunity Description

Mérida is a beautiful, historic, colonial city centrally located on the Yucatán Peninsula just 20 minutes from the Gulf of Mexico. It is surrounded by biodiverse nature reserves, UNESCO archaeological sites, and historic “Pueblos Mágicos,” where visitors get an authentic glimpse of Mexico’s deep history.  Mérida attracts visitors from around the globe to its boutique hotels, excellent restaurants, museums, theaters, and sports facilities. Researchers and students are in good company, as Mérida hosts more than a dozen universities and several national research facilities.

What is unique about Mérida?

Mérida is the capital of Yucatán state and the largest city in the Yucatán Peninsula, known for its Mayan ruins, art, and colonial architecture. It hosts one of the largest intact indigenous populations (60%) of any Latin American city.  Mayan culture is still reflected in modern Mérida, from its regional foods and music, to its textiles and traditions. Mérida is also a safe and modern city filled with shops, hotels, restaurants, universities and museums.

The region is the perfect setting for studies in agricultural, marine, and natural sciences as well ecology, environment, and Spanish language.  Mérida sits within the Chicxulub crater, formed by the impact of a large asteroid that fell to earth 66 million years ago, causing the fifth great extinction that included dinosaurs. Geologically, the Yucatán has karst topography of limestone, leading to many fascinating caves and cenotes rich in cultural significance. In addition, zoos, botanical garden, Museum of Natural History, and science institutes are all within easy reach.

How do I choose among programs?

  • See the Office of Global Learning’s “Selecting a Program” page for information on program types and considerations
  • Use the search features on the Experience Cornell  Opportunities page to filter for programs approved by your college, and by particular subject areas
  • Go to the “Get Advice” page for information on drop-in advising hours, scheduling an advising appointment, returned student contacts, and college advisors for study abroad
  • Find out about upcoming events, check out FAQs, and read stories from returned study abroad students

How do I apply?

Applying to study abroad is a two-step process. You may complete both steps simultaneously, but the Cornell approval process must be complete before your program advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit any approval or nomination to the program.

  1. For Cornell Approval, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page.
  2. For Program Admission, complete an external application directly on the program’s webpage, using the link in the “Snapshot” section. (Note: This deadline may be in advance of the general Cornell deadline for approval. Many programs fill by rolling admission.