Winter Faculty-led Program in Chile

Course: Family Services 1020: Family Relationships (Study Abroad in Chile) (3 credit hours)

• This course will count towards the UNIFI Human Condition Domestic category or as a Connect elective
• This course also meets one of the required courses for the Mental Health Minor
• Students who have already completed this course can take the alternative Family Services 4198, which will still count as an elective in the mental health minor.
• No prerequisites. All majors welcome. 

Students will explore a range of identities, communities, cultures and conceptions of the human condition, within the United States and the world. This course seeks to understand contemporary families as they exist in their cultural context, explore how families change and adapt to normative and non-normative challenges and an application of family theory and current research in order to understand family dynamics.

Topics to be offered:
- Healthcare for families, children, and the aging population
- How generations and families communicate
- How patterns are passed down through generations
- Divorce and Mediation
- Mental Health
- Early Childhood and Education
- Maternal Care

Participation in this program requires several class meetings during the fall semester, although the course is scheduled as a winter session course. The Study Abroad Center will enroll participants in the course. Please contact the program's course leader for more information on academic requirements.  

Course Leaders: Bill Henninger & Nathan Taylor

Bill Henninger

Department: Family, Aging, and Counseling

My areas of expertise are in social-emotional development and interpersonal relationships. I believe the best kind of growth (both personal and professional) happens when you are outside of your comfort zone. That is why I love to travel. As an undergraduate, I studied in Ireland for a year. Professionally, I have traveled to and worked with universities in Kosovo and Taiwan. I also co-lead last year's program to Chile with Dr. Taylor. Personally, I have traveled through most of Europe and Japan. I am thrilled to share my love of learning and travel with students on this trip to Chile. Chile is a beautiful country with a rich history and has so much to teach us about how families are constructed and operate.

Nathan Taylor

Department: Family Studies

My expertise is family dynamics, with my research focused on improving individual, family, and community wellbeing in underserved areas. I love to travel and am always dreaming of my next adventure. I have had the opportunity to study abroad in China and Australia, and have conducted research in Brazil. I also co-lead last year's program to Chile with Dr. Henninger and I am ecstatic for this opportunity to take another group of students to Chile because I know it will be a transforming experience as you will expand your understanding of how families function and thrive, both your own family and families around the world. 

Deepen your understanding of global social systems through this immersive program in Chile, which offers a unique focus on family health, education, and public policy. Based at the Universidad de los Andes, you will engage in expert-led seminars covering early childcare, the Chilean healthcare system, and mental health while collaborating directly with local Chilean students. Beyond the classroom, the experience includes professional visits to family health centers (CESFAM) and specialized clinics, complemented by breathtaking excursions to the Andes Mountains at Cajón del Maipo and the historic hills of Valparaíso. From reaching the summit of South America’s tallest skyscraper at Sky Costanera to enjoying traditional Chilean cuisine and dance, this program seamlessly blends academic rigor with the vibrant cultural heritage of Santiago.

Studying abroad offers rich cultural immersion, but it may also involve unfamiliar sensory experiences. You might encounter new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and environmental conditions that differ significantly from what you're used to. These can be exciting but also overwhelming for some individuals, especially those with sensory sensitivities. We encourage all participants to approach these experiences with curiosity and adaptability. If you have sensory sensitivities or specific concerns, please reach out to program staff.

Students will stay in apartments arranged by the Study Abroad Center while abroad. The cost of the apartments are included in the "Program Cost" line item of the program cost estimate. A few meals are built into the "Program Cost". Students will pay for the remaining meals out-of-pocket while traveling and are encouraged to try the local foods. Student apartments will include kitchens for students to cook their own meals, with grocery stores within walking distance. There are also many bakery's and cafe's nearby.

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend talking to your healthcare provider early. At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

Feel free to connect with the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility & Study Abroad

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern, whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs, we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

A faculty-led study abroad program combines academic learning with cultural immersion, guided by university faculty. Students earn credit through hands-on experiences and site visits tailored to the destination. The program fosters a strong sense of community through shared housing, group activities, and cultural events, creating lasting bonds among participants. This type of program has limited individual free time and days will be spent primarily with other group members. If you are interested in a more individualized program experience, we encourage you to check out our partner university summer school opportunities.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Entry and Exit Requirements: 

Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to Chile

The Study Abroad Center reserves the right to determine participants' eligibility to study abroad. Students must have a completed study abroad application, including supportive recommendation form(s). View eligibility requirements.