Which do you think are the strengths of Ecuadorian education?
I can only comment on my own experience at La Universidad Espíritu Santo in Samborondón. I was thoroughly impressed with the knowledge and insight of the professors (Ecuadorian and international professors.) at this university. Furthermore, I think it is a very strong asset for universities to offer non-language classes such as management classes in other languages. For example, EES has many management and business classes taught entirely in English which are available to both Ecuadorian and international students. This immersion concept truly allows a student to practice their language skills and reinforces cultural understanding.
What are the differences between local teaching as opposed to Canada’s system?
Although I do not want to skew any perception, I found there to be few differences between the actual structure and content of classes when comparing the Canadian university and the Ecuadorian university that I attended. In Canada it is not as common for students to have the majority of their classes after 4pm. Often students in Canada will be done all of their classes mid-late afternoon (with the exception of those who take a weekly night class). The biggest difference is that there are no classes taught between noon and 4.30pm at the Ecuadorian university and that many students in Ecuador have several classes late afternoon and early evening.
Do you think a bilateral commerce opportunity is possible with Canadian markets?
I think a bilateral commerce opportunity between Canada and Ecuador is very feasible. Both Canada and Ecuador have multiple raw materials that the other lacks. As such, we would complement each other’s market needs. For example, the large quantity of grain, bean, hay and canola commodities (which Canada also exports to the U.S., India and Japan) could foster the development of bilateral trade if those are resources Ecuador lacks. In return, Canada could import tropical fruit and other materials native to Ecuador that would supplement Canadian markets.
In terms of logistics, both countries have port cities (Vancouver and Guayaquil) on the Pacific Ocean which would be an effective transportation route of bilateral trade commodities. Given that Ecuador uses the American Dollar as its currency, it will be easier to form a bilateral agreement since Canadians are already very accustomed to the use of the American Dollar as a result of the extensive trade that exists between Canada and The United States.
How do you see job opportunities in Ecuador in comparison to Canada?
To make a relative comparison, omitting this year’s economic crisis, I feel Canada has more promising job opportunities. My impression of Ecuador job’s market is based solely on my observations. In Canada it is possible to start at the bottom of a company with very little post-secondary education and over the years climb to higher positions or achieve promotions. Some companies for example, will provide extra training or specified training to adapt the employee to their work/job. An individual with little post-secondary education in Canada could start entrepreneurial ventures or work for themselves quite easily and become very successful. My observation and taking into account: Ecuador’s high poverty percentage leaves the impression that professional jobs may not be abundant or not as easily obtained in Ecuador.
What would you recommend other exchange students coming to Ecuador?
Would you recommend Ecuador as a country to visit/live in?
I would definitely recommend Ecuador for other exchange students. There are so many things to learn, see and observe. The country’s natural beauty and landscape are unique and breathtaking. Ecuador has a very diverse landscape and each pertains to a distinctive sub-culture with so many admirable qualities we can learn from. A student or individual considering visiting, studying or living in Ecuador must be able to deviate from their comfort zone and embrace the differences between Ecuador and their home-country. |
