DC| 2016
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS
HANDBOOK FOR INCOMING STUDENTS
www.utdt.edu/international
1 INDEX
Welcome 3
About Universidad Torcuato Di Tella 4
Section I: Argentina 5
History, culture and climate 5
Buenos Aires 6 Useful websites
Section II: Practical information 6
Health 6 Food and water Alcohol Drug Hospitals Pharmacies
Safety 8 General precautions Outside precautions At home Taxis
Money 9 ATM’s Bank hours Credit cards Exchange rates Money transfers Tipping VAT (Value Added Tax)
Transportation 10 Subways Trains Buses
Activities to do in and around Buenos Aires 12 Places to visit Shows Days Trips
Useful information 17 Weather Time Electricity Shopping areas Embassies
Communications 18 Important telephone numbers
Cultural tips 19 Learning and respecting local customs
Lunfardo 20
Section III: Universidad Torcuato Di Tella 21
Facilities and services 21
Academic information 23
Section IV: International Programs Office 24
Contact information 24
2 ¡Bienvenidos! Bienvenues! Welcome! Wilkommen! Bienvenuti!
We are very happy that you have chosen Universidad Torcuato Di Tella to study while in Buenos Aires!
We are certain that you will have a life-changing and enriching experience in our wonderful city and University. In order to make the most out of your time here, please take some time to read this Handbook, where you will find useful information to help you prepare and truly take advantage of your time in Buenos Aires.
We look forward to working with you and to contributing to a very memorable experience.
Alex Markman Tania Sturla Tatiana Cuadra Director International Programs Incoming Student Coordinator Coordinator
3 Universidad Torcuato Di Tella
Founded in 1991, the Universidad Torcuato Di Tella is a non-profit organization founded on the pillars of two cornerstone organizations in Argentina: the SIAM factory (1910) and the Instituto Di Tella (1958).
SIAM was the country’s first industrial company and also the first local organization to have commercial presence in several Latin American countries as well as in Europe. Innovative and with a global vision, it produced over 250 different products, ranging from household appliances to gas pumps and cars.
The Instituto Torcuato Di Tella (1958) was home of the artistic vanguard of the late 50s through the 70s. Also home of outstanding research in the Social Sciences, the Instituto Di Tella brought together some of Argentina´s most influential intellectuals and artists.
Inheriting the entrepreneurial and innovative spirit of SIAM and the vanguardist essence of the Instituto Di Tella, the University’s mission is to educate the country’s new business, political, academic, social and artistic generation and to produce basic knowledge, in an environment of pluralism, academic excellence and equal opportunity.
4 Part I: Argentina
History, culture and climate Between the 15th and 19th centuries, Argentina was a part of the Spanish Empire. On May 25th, 1816 the country became an independent Republic conformed by 23 provinces. The country’s capital, Buenos Aires, later became an autonomous city. During the 19th and 20th centuries many Europeans, mainly Italians, Spaniards, French and Germans, as well as many people from Eastern Europe, immigrated to Argentina escaping war and prosecution. Their presence in Argentina greatly shaped the country’s culture, so much so, that Buenos Aires prides itself of being called the “Paris of South America” as its Architecture and café culture very much resemble those of the French capital.
The country’s geography is as diverse as its culture. The north has warm, desert-like climate; the northeast, where the Iguazú Falls are, features humid, subtropical forests. The “Pampas”, located in the center-south of the country has temperate climate that make the region exceptionally good for agricultural production. The Patagonia region, located south of the country, has cold, arid climate with stunning lakes, mountains and glaciers.
Argentine people are very gregarious and enjoy being outside: eating out, spending innumerable hours at cafes, attending the cultural activities, many of them free that are offered weekly. Family and friends are very important for argentines. Indeed, Friendship day, which is celebrated in July, was established by an argentine and is now celebrated in many parts of the world. Soccer is the national sport and passion.
5 Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is the capital of Argentina, South America’s largest Spanish-speaking country. This dynamic metropolis of more than 12 million people is home to one of every three Argentines. Buenos Aires is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a European flavor, whose elegant residential neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and wide boulevards are why some refer to it as the “Paris of the Americas”.
The vast array of cultural activities in Buenos Aires rivals that of any other world capital. Porteños, as the residents are called, enjoy an extensive offering of theater, music, dance, and cinema as well as plenty of local soccer games and other sporting events. Buenos Aires never sleeps; there is always time to enjoy a coffee at a street café, sample Argentina’s famous beef or visit a trendy nightclub and dance until dawn.
UTDT is located in Belgrano, one of the 47 neighborhoods that make up the city of Buenos Aires. It is about twenty minutes from downtown Buenos Aires, connected by the subway, commuter train and several bus lines.
Useful websites
City of Buenos Aires homepage This comprehensive website has information on city events, maps, museums, theaters, etc.: http://www.buenosaires.gov.ar
Interactive Map of Buenos Aires Very useful to find out best ways to move around the city: http://mapa.buenosaires.gov.ar
Argentine Tourist Bureau http://www.turismo.gov.ar
Cultural agenda and listings of things to do in Buenos Aires http://agendacultural.buenosaires.gob.ar http://www.vuenosairez.com/v3
Time Out Guide http://www.timeout.com/buenosaires
Lonely Planet Guide http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Guía Oleo Restaurant guide with customer reviews: http://www.guiaoleo.com.ar/
Restorando Restaurant options and booking page: http://buenos-aires.restorando.com.ar
You can find all the country’s newspapers in Spanish and English at www.onlinenewspapers.com/argentin.htm
Part II: Practical information
Health
> Make sure to understand how your insurance works and to always carry your policy number and the provider’s contact information with you.
> Should you need to see a doctor, unless it is an emergency, make sure to contact your health insurance provider before seeing one (otherwise, you risk having to pay for medical fees out of your pocket)
> Please let the Office of International Programs know if you have any health problems as we can help you contact the health insurance provider and accompany to the hospital, if necessary.
> If you take any medicine regularly, bring to Argentina its generic name and dosage. Also, if you wear glasses/contact lenses, remember to bring extra pairs.
> If your sickness makes you miss classes, inform this to the Office of International Programs (OIP) right away and make sure to get a doctor’s note (to submit to the OIP) indicating how long you will miss school.
6 Food and water
> Water in most big cities is potable. However, in Tigre and in some smaller towns in northern and eastern provinces, it is not.
> Avoid eating foods from street vendors.
> Always make sure that your food (especially meat) is fully cooked.
Alcohol
> All serious problems that international students have had in the past in Buenos Aires have been related to excessive consumption of alcohol. Therefore, drink responsibly!
> The legal drinking age is 18.
> It is forbidden to drink alcohol in the street.
> Make sure to drink only with people you know and trust.
> Do not mix different types of alcohol.
> Always eat before and while you are drinking and make sure you drink water as well, to avoid dehydration.
Drugs
> Drug use in Argentina is illegal and can lead to very serious consequences.
> Anti-narcotics laws are strictly enforced regardless of the amount of drug that a person may be caught with.
> Drugs are a risk to mental and physical health.
Hospitals
Hospital Alemán Sanatorio Mater Dei 4827-7000 4809- 5555 www.hospitalaleman.org.ar www.sanatoriomaterdei.com.ar Av. Pueyrredón 1640 San Martín de Tours 2952
Hospital Italiano CEMIC 4959-0800 4808-8200 www.hospitalitaliano.org.ar www.cemic.edu.ar Gascón 450 Av. Las Heras 2900
Hospital Británico Sanatorio La Trinidad 4304-1081 4127-5500 www.hospitalbritanico.org.ar www.trinidadpalermo.com.ar Perdriel 74 Cerviño 4720
Swiss Medical Clínica del Sol 4824-7777 4821-1000 www.swissmedical.com www.cdelsol.com.ar Santa Fe 3700
Pharmacies
> Are usually open from 9 am to 8 pm, however, every day there must be at least one pharmacy open 24 hours in each neighborhood.
> You can find a list of all pharmacies in Buenos Aires in www.enfarmacias.com.ar.
> Local health insurance plans always have discounts in prescribed medicines.
7 Safety Buenos Aires is a marvelous city. However, just like most big cities, it has a fair bit of crime. This is mostly non-violent and it usually consists of pickpocketing and stealing. Resistance and fighting back is may turn non-violent crime into fatal situations. Therefore, if mugged, just let go of your valuables; material things can be replaced.
Common-sense and extra precautions, like the ones below will most likely keep you safe.
General
> Always listen to your gut feeling and to your intuition.
> Always let a friend/your host family know where you are going to and if you are travelling somewhere.
> During the first days in the city, make sure to have your address written down somewhere until you memorize it.
> Should you have any problems, always remember to inform them promptly to the International Programs Office.
> For emergencies call 911.
Outside
> Do not call attention to yourself by wearing expensive jewelry, carrying flashy electronics or having a boisterous behavior.
> Always keep bags and purses close to your body, especially in public transportation and crowded places. In restaurants leave your bag in a place where you can constantly see it and feel it.
> Try not to appear lost; if you need directions, obtain them from a store rather than from a passerby.
> Never leave your valuables unattended.
> Do not carry more money than you can afford to lose.
> Carry your money in different pockets so that if robbed, you only give part of it and not lose everything.
> Make a copy of your passport to bring with you and leave the original al home.
> Make scans of your credit cards, driver´s license and other important documents and keep them in your email in case you lose them.
> If driving, keep doors locked and never leave valuables visible when you park.
> Try not to walk alone at night.
> Avoid using ATMs at night.
At home
> Always leave your valuables in locked places (i.e. safety boxes, your padlocked suitcase, etc.)
> Never open the door to strangers.
> In buildings, never leave the building’s front door open nor let anyone you do not know come into the building with you.
Taxis
> It is best to try to call radio taxis rather than hailing them on the street.
> The driver’s name, taxi number and license should always be displayed at the back of the driver’s seat.
> Always check your change to avoid being short-changed.
8 Money Argentina’s unit of currency is the Argentina peso ($). Paper money comes in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100. One peso equals 100 centavos; coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos, 1 and 2 pesos. You will find that totals are rounded up or down to the nearest 5 cent denomination (for example, a ARS 2.03 cab ride will cost you ARS 2), and 1 cent coins are not used.
ATMs
ATMs are available throughout Buenos Aires to make withdrawals in Argentine pesos. They usually have the option to operate in English or Spanish. Many banks charge per usage fees and allow a maximum daily withdrawal of ARS 5000. Check with your bank about their international usage policies.
Bank hours
Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 10 am to 3 pm and are closed on public holidays.
Credit cards
Credit cards like MasterCard, Visa and American Express are widely accepted, but occasionally merchants will have a lower price for cash purchases so be sure to ask. Visa Electron and MasterCard Maestro debit cards are also widely used.
Exchange rates
The exchange rate fluctuates daily. Currently, it is of about USD 1 = ARS 13. Please visit www.xe.com to see today´s rate.
Note that at exchange bureaus low denomination bills (i.e. USD smaller than 20) are often exchanged for less than 50 or 100 dollar bills.
Money transfers
It is not possible for exchange students remaining in Argentina less than a year to open a local bank account. Therefore, in order not to travel with a lot of money, it is a good idea to look into Xoom.com and Azimo.com. These two services (the first one is for the US and the second for Europe) allow customers to transfer money from their accounts in their home countries to Argentina at a fairly good exchange rate. The money is usually transferred within 24 hours (we have, however, had students have longer transfer times) and it can be picked up at different locations.
The closest pick up location to UTDT is Olazabal 1725, esq. Arribeños. Note: when choosing where to receive the money, make sure to select “Buenos Aires” and “Captital Federal”.
Tipping
Most restaurants charge a set amount per person for table service (“servicio de mesa” or “cubierto”), which refers to the table setting, bread, spreads or small appetizers served when you sit down to eat. This charge is not optional and varies in quantity and quality. The cost is announced in small print somewhere on the bottom of the menu and varies from place to place. This table service is NOT a tip for the wait staff. Argentines typically leave 10% of the bill as a tip, adjusting for particularly good or bad service.
Tipping in taxis is not necessary or expected.
VAT (Value Added Tax)
IVA (or VAT Tax) is already included in the published prices of goods and most services in Argentina. It is usually 21%, except for some food items (10,5%). There is a system that returns the VAT tax at the airport for purchases over a certain value. Further information may be found at www.premiertaxfree.com
9 Transportation Buenos Aires offers quite a variety of transportation options such as subway, bus lines, and trains.
> Subway: Subte
> Bus lines: Colectivo
> Train: Tren
Public transportation accepts only coins or the transportation card called SUBE. This card is very convenient and its use also entails a discount in all public transportation and in some stores. See http://www.subeneficio.gob.ar/. If you pay with coins, the amount to pay will be double to the one using the SUBE card. To see where to buy a SUBE card please check this website.
In order to charge your SUBE card you should go to a kiosko, a Lotería Nacional or to a locutorio and ask if they charge SUBE. If they do, tell them how much money you would like to charge it with (people usually charge ARS 50, 100 or 150). In some places they might charge you a small amount (ARS 1 to 5) for the service.
Kioskos
A kiosko is a place where you can buy food, groceries, biscuits, cigarettes, etc. You will find these stores in almost every block in Capital Federal and many of them are open 24/7.
Lotería Nacional or Lotería de la Provincia
Loteria Nacional stores are where people go to buy lottery tickets and pay bills.
Locutorios
A locutorio is a place where there are telephone cabins and computers for people to use. Locutorios usually also sell calling cards and provide copying and printing services.
10 Transportation
The Interactive Map of Buenos Aires is the best source to find out how to get around the city by public transportation: http://mapa.buenosaires.gov.ar.
Subway
The subway is one of the most popular options to get around the city because it’s the fastest. However, it’s usually very crowded in rush hour so it is very important to pay extra attention to personal belongings. Subway passes may be bought at the station and the SUBE card may also be used for payment. The fare is AR$ 4.50 per trip.
> Subway lines: A, B, C, D, E, H.
In this website you will find a subway map.
Trains
There are 10 train lines that connect the city with the different “suburbs”
> Línea Sarmiento
> Línea Roca
> Línea Belgrano Sur y Línea Belgrano Norte
> Línea Mitre: if you take the train that goes from Retiro to Tigre it will stop at the Belgrano station, which is the closest one to UTDT.
> Línea San Martin
> Línea Urquiza
11 To find out the different stations each line has go to this website. One way fares range from $0,80 to $4,30, depending on the travel distance.
Buses
Buses in Buenos Aires are known as “colectivos”, “bondis” (slang) or they are simply called by their number (eg. “el cincuenta y nueve”). Most bus lines have a distinct color combination. Therefore, it is possible to distinguish them by the number and the color. However, sometimes the same line (eg. the 130) has different colors to indicate different routes. All buses show these routes on the left side of the windshield, so always pay attention to that information before getting on.
Bus stops “paradas” are usually about 10 feet from the corner and are indicated with the bus number. One way trips usually cost 3 or 4 pesos when paying with the SUBE card and double if paying with coins. Note that only coins may be used to pay for bus fares; no bills are accepted.
Buses only stop when someone at the stop indicates that they want to get on. To do this, as the bus is approaching, raise your arm so that the driver can see you. When on board, tell the driver your destination or the amount of the ticket (i.e. tres pesos) and he will set the ticket price in the machine.
Stops are every two or three blocks. When you are getting close to your destination, move towards the middle or back doors (do NOT use the front one) and press the buzzer on the pole near the door to indicate your stop. Before getting out, make sure to check that there are no cars or bikes passing by.
Activities to do in and around Buenos Aires
Nuñez
Saavedra Río de Belgrano la Plata Coghlan
Avenida Villa Urquiza General Paz Colegiales Palermo Villa Villa Ortuzar Pueyrredón Parque Chas CAPITAL FEDERAL BUENOS AIRES (CABA) Chacarita Recoleta Retiro Agronomía KEY Villa Villa Paternal Devoto Villa Crespo del Parque San Nicolás Belgrano Puerto Madero Villa General Almagro Balvanera Barrio Chino Puente de la mujer Mitre Puerto Madero Reserva Ecológica Villa Monte Villa Santa Monserrat Caballito Palermo Real Castro Rita San Telmo San San Telmo Paseo del Rosedal Floresta Cristobal MALBA Plaza Dorrego Versalles Velez Boedo Constitución Museo Nacional Bellas Artes El Zanjón de Granados Sar eld Parque Museo Evita Museo de Arte Villa Flores Parque Chacabuco Boca Jardín Botánico Carlos Thays Comtemporáneo Luro Patricios Liniers Jardín Japonés Buenos Aires (MACBA) Barrio Las Cañitas Museo de Arte Moderno Parque Nueva Barracas Buenos Aires (MAMBA) Avellaneda Pompeya Recoleta La Boca Riachuelo Cementerio de Recoleta Mataderos Caminito El Ateneo Villa Boca Juniors Stadium Soldati San Nicolás Fundación PROA Villa Café Tortoni Lugano Mataderos Casa Rosada & Bicentenary museum Feria de Mataderos Teatro Colón World Tango museum Villa Shopping areas Riachuelo
Shops are usually open from Monday to Friday from 10am to 8pm and on Saturday from 10am to 1pm. Malls are open from Monday to Sunday from 10am to 10pm.
Malls in Buenos Aires:
Abasto Shopping www.abasto-shopping.com.ar
Paseo Alcorta www.paseoalcorta.com.ar
12 Places to visit
Belgrano
Belgrano is a residential district and a neighborhood which contains a pleasant mix of bustling commercial streets and quiet tree-lined residential avenues. There are two train stations, Belgrano R and Belgrano C, and the “D” subway line which are the easiest ways to get to this neighborhood. Universidad Torcuato Di Tella (UTDT) is located in Belgrano.
Barrio Chino: Although small, the Chinese neighborhood is the place where you can find most international foods and the freshest fish in the city. It has many restaurants and many shops great for buying cheap homeware. The train station “Bel- grano C” is the closest way to get there. See the website for more information.
Palermo
The chic, sprawling neighborhood of Palermo in north Buenos Aires is divided into three parts: Alto Palermo, Palermo Chico, and Palermo Viejo (which is further broken into Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood). Alto Palermo is known for its museums and urban parks, like Carlos Thays Botanical Garden. Palermo Chico, which hosts extravagant mansions tucked behind the Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires (MALBA), is a hidden spot often overlooked by tourists. And Palermo Viejo is where you’ll encounter the most color and local flair. Palermo Soho houses a trove of high-end boutiques, bustling cafés and bars, and cobble-stoned streets. Neighboring Palermo Hollywood, located just north of Soho, brims with lively tapas bars, film studios, and festive outdoor markets. There’s plenty to do in Palermo. The only question is where to start. You can reach Palermo easily via subte Line D to Bulnes.
> Paseo del Rosedal: When you tire of meandering down the bustling Avenue Libertador, take respite at the city’s tranquil rose garden. Located in Palermo Woods (also known as Parque Tres de Febrero), this lush green space bursts with color thanks to more than 1,000 species of roses found here. The Rose Garden exudes a Zen-like charm similar to Paris’ Tuileries. The path extends into a serene Poet’s Garden and features an Andalusian patio, teeming with colorful tiles imported from Seville. The sprawling green space is divided into an array of smaller, easily accessible green areas (think Central Park). You can reach Palermo Woods via subte Line D to Plaza Italia. Access to the garden is free. Visitors can explore the garden every day between April and October from 9 am to 6 pm From November through March, the garden is open from 8 am to 8 pm To learn more, visit the Rose Garden’s page on the City of Buenos Aires website.
> MALBA (Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires): With its extensive collection of avant-garde 19th- and 20th-century works, the Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires (MALBA) is an essential stopover for art lovers. The museum features the private collection of Eduardo Costanini, a real estate tycoon with an eye for iconic art. Highlights include the works of Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Antonio Berni. In addition to its temporary exhibits, the museum also hosts film and lecture series throughout the year. The museum welcomes visitors every day except Tuesdays from 12 to 8 pm Regular admission costs 60 ARS. On Wednesdays, the MALBA stays open an extra hour and reduces ticket prices. Private guided tours are available in English or Spanish on weekdays, until 6:30 pm You’ll find the MALBA on Avenue Figueroa Alcorta in the trendy Palermo neighborhood, accessible via the 67, 102, 124, and 130 buses. For more information, visit the museum’s officialwebsite .
> Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: For art aficionados, the National Museum of Fine Arts is an aesthetic wonderland. The collection sprawls across 30 rooms and three floors, showcasing international art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Inside, works of Rembrandt, Goya, Manet, Modigliani, and Picasso hang on the walls. The museum’s permanent Latin American and Argentine collections can be found on the first floor, while temporary exhibitions are located throughout the building and in the outdoor pavilion. Within walking distance of Recoleta Cemetery, the museum is located on Avenida del Libertador in Buenos Aires’ Recoleta neighborhood. The museum offers free admission and welcomes visitors Tuesday through Friday from 12:30 to 8:30 pm and on weekends from 9:30 am to 8:30 pm The museum is closed on Mondays. For more information, check out the National Museum of Fine Arts officialwebsite .
> Museo Evita: housed in a beautiful mansion which was used by the Fundación Evita Perón as a shelter for homeless women and children, the museum, which was opened in 2002 by Evita´s grandniece, commemorates the life of one of Argentina´s most notable women. Located on Lafinur 2988, very close to the Botanical Gardens and the Buenos Aires Zoo, the museum opens Tuesday to Sunday from 11 to 7 pm. The library is open Monday to Friday from 2 to 6 pm. The restau- rant is said to feature the best crêpes of the city. It has a lovely garden, which is ideal for enjoying spring and summer days. To get there take the subway D to Plaza Italia or buses 12, 29, 36, 39, 55, 68, 111, 152, 10, 15, 37, 41, 59, 60, 64, 93, 95, 108, 110, 118, 128, 141, 160 y 188. For further information please visit their officialwebsite .
> Jardín Botánico Carlos Thays (Botanical Gardens): In this verdant, 18-acre botanical garden, you can take a rest from the hustle and bustle of the city and savor the scenery from a park bench. Boasting around 5,000 species of plants, this tranquil oasis lures visitors with its versatile array of flora, as well as beautiful statues, trickling brooks, buzzing dragonflies, and organic vegetable garden. Another highlight: The garden contains a green house imported from France in 1900. Admission to the botanical garden is free. During the winter season, the botanical garden welcomes visitors on weekdays from 8 am to 6 pm and on weekends from 9:30 am to 6 pm In the summer months, the botanical garden is open on week- days from 8 am to 7 pm and on weekends from 9:30 am to 7 pm Holiday hours vary. The garden is located in the Palermo
13 neighborhood and is easily accessible subway Line D to Plaza Italia. For more information, consult the garden’s official website.
> Jardín Japonés (Japanese Gardens): A wonderful, tranquil Japanese garden about 15 minutes by bus from central Buenos Aires. It contains all the features of a traditional Japanese garden, including streams, waterfalls, tea house, bridges and over 600 carp in the lake. It is possible to buy fish food from the shop and the carp will come and feed from your hand. There are exhibitions and events held throughout the year and information can be found on their website. Hours of opening are 10 am to 6 pm every day. Information on how to get there may be found here.
> Barrio Las Cañitas: Las Cañitas is one of the most fashionable and important gastronomical districts in Buenos Aires where you will find a high concentration of bars and restaurants. It is one of Palermo’s neighborhoods which is frequently visited by both locals and tourists. You can get there by any of these bus lines: 15, 60, 29, 118, 64.
Recoleta
> Cemeterio de la Recoleta: An antique and historic cemetery located in the Recoleta neighborhood of Buenos Aires. It contains the graves of notable people, including Eva Perón, presidents of Argentina, Nobel Prize winners, the founder of the Argentina Navy and a granddaughter of Napoleon, amongst others. The cemetery has a variety of architectural styles and is decorated with marble and other fancy materials. The address is Junín 1760 and you may visit it from Monday to Sunday from 7 am to 5.45 pm.
> El Ateneo: is one of the most well-known bookstores in Buenos Aires. Situated at Av. Santa Fé 1860 in Barrio Norte, the building was designed by the architects Peró and Torres Armengold and opened as a theatre named Teatro Grand Splendid in May 1919. In the late twenties it became a cinema, and in 2000 it was renovated and converted into a book and music shop. Chairs are provided throughout the building, including the still-intact theatre boxes, where customers can dip into books before purchase. There is also a café, which is a great literary refuge.
San Nicolas
> Café Tortoni: The Café Tortoni is a coffeehouse located at 825 Avenida de Mayo in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Inaugurated in 1858 by a French immigrant whose surname was Touan, it was named Tortoni after the Parisian café of the same name located on Boulevard des Italiens(where the elite of the Parissiense culture gathered in the 19th century). The café itself was Inspired by Fin de siècle coffee houses. Café Tortoni was selected by UCityGuides as one of the ten most beautiful cafes in the world. Further information available here.
> Casa Rosada & Bicentenary museum: Just around the corner from the Casa Rosada, the place where the President works in Plaza de Mayo, is the sleek Museo del Bicentenario (Bicentenary Museum). This museum was built in 2010 to com- memorate 200 years since the start of the revolution that led to Argentina’s independence. The sprawling museum is below street level, and lies on the spot where the first fort in Buenos Aires was built in 1580. The original brickwork is still visible in the museum and makes for a stunning reminder of the building’s history. Address: Paseo Colón 100. Tel: 4344-3802. Hours: (April-Nov) Wednesday through Sunday plus holidays 8 am - 6 pm (Dec – March) 11 am - 7 pm. Entrance is free.
> Teatro Colón: This theatre is the main opera house in Buenos Aires and is considered one of the best theaters in the world. It is also acknowledged for its acoustics and the artistic value of its construction and is located in the heart of down- town Buenos Aires in Cerrito 628. For information about guided tours and shows please visit their website.
> World Tango museum: Above the illustrious watering-hole, Café Tortoni is another site of interest that is saturated with Argentine history but often overlooked: The World Tango Museum. The 1880’s mansion on Avenida de Mayo recalls Buenos Aires’ own Belle Époque, with details such as a wrought-iron elevator, ornate ceilings and antique chandeliers. Comprised of only a few rooms, the museum can be separated into three distinct sections. The first contains chronologically -arranged glass cabinets that explain the evolution of the tango from its early roots in the 1850’s until today. Relics include records, photographs and clothing. Overlooking the space are the faces of tango’s greatest names in large black and white posters. Occasional performances by local tango legends and up-and-coming players take place at a small stage at the end of the hall. Address: Av. De Mayo 833 1st floor. Tel: 4345-6967/68 Museum Hours: Monday through Friday 2 pm to 8 pm. Tango Class Hours: Mon-Fri: 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
14 Puerto Madero
Puerto Madero is another neighborhood in Buenos Aires which occupies a significant portion of the Río de la Plata riverbank and represents the latest architectural trends in the city.
> Puente de la Mujer: in English means “Woman’s Bridge” and all the streets there are all named after different women. The bridge was designed by the Spanish architect, Santiago Calatrava, who has described the design as a synthesis of the image of a couple dancing tango.
> Reserva Ecológica: Located towards the east side of Puerto Madero, you’ll find an Ecological Reserve which has a bio- logical diversity including ponds, grasslands, woods, birds and other animal species. This place became a meeting point for joggers, cyclists, naturalists and bird watchers. If you are a nature lover, you should definitely visit it.
San Telmo
If you came to Buenos Aires to dance, sashay your way over to this stylish southern neighborhood where tango has left its mark. Though its streets garnered a reputation for seediness in the early 1990’s, the area has since blossomed into jam- packed bohemian blocks. Meander through San Telmo’s cobbled streets and you’ll pass colonial houses, quaint cafés, traditional restaurants, eclectic shops, and festive flamenco and tango clubs. For shopping, venture to Calle Defensa, a narrow, cobbled street lined with stores. For food, sit down at La Brigada, a steakhouse known for its hearty steak dishes. And for dancing, head to Independencia Street, which brims with nightclubs. If you happen to find yourself in San Telmo on a Sunday, you’ll also want to peruse the vibrant San Telmo market in Plaza Dorrego, where you can pick up some fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and vintage clothing. Entrance into San Telmo’s clubs will cost you, but strolling through the streets is free of charge. San Telmo is located to the south of Buenos Aires’ city center and is easily accessible by taxi or by public transportation via the Independencia subte stop.>
> Plaza Dorrego: Every Sunday from 10 am - 4 pm there is a big market which takes place in Plaza Dorrego. You will find many antique shops and stands, tango dancers, music and a very lively atmosphere. For more information visit this website.
> El Zanjón de Granados: When you tire of rummaging through San Telmo’s designer racks and museums, head over to El Zanjón de Granados for insight into Buenos Aires’ far-stretching, 500-year history. From the outside, the building looks like an immense, lavish mansion. But beneath this glamorous structure, you’ll catch a glimpse of Buenos Aires’ past as you traverse a maze of ancient Spanish settlements. Tour guides relay enchanting tales of the city’s history as you descend into through El Zanjón’s network of underground tunnels. You’ll admire ancient artifacts, old walls, and flooring and decide what to believe for yourself. Zanjón de Granados is located in San Telmo and is easily accessible via the Independencia subte stop. Guided tours in Spanish and English are offered every hour Monday through Friday from 11 am to 3 pm and every 20 minutes on Sundays between 1 and 6 pm Tours last between 30 minutes and two hours. For further details, consult the officialwebsite .
> Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Buenos Aires (MACBA): MACBA, Museum of Contemporary Art of Buenos Aires, opened to the public on September 1st, 2012 in San Telmo. Its intention is to become a forum for reflection and access to the different trends in contemporary art and, in particular, geometric abstraction, given its local and global historical im- portance. This tendency marks the profile of its collection and will be its primary object of study and research. It features fantastic exhibits and it is a great destination for a day where one feels like taking in a lot of art, as it is just a few steps away from the MAMBA. Located on Avenida San Juan 328. Tel. 5299-2010. Hours: Monday to Friday from 12 pm to 7 pm and Weekends from 11 am to 7.30 pm Tuesday’s closed. Further information available at their website.
> Museo de Arte Moderno de Buenos Aires (MAMBA): the MAMBA specializes in Argentine art from the 40s, 50s, and 60s to the present date. Located very close to the MACBA and Plaza Dorrego, it makes a lovely weekend visit. Address: Av. San Juan 350. Tel: 4300-8753. Hours: Tuesday to Friday 11 to 7 pm and Saturday, Sunday and holidays: 11 to 8 pm. Closed on Monday except for holidays. To get there: C subway line to Estación San Juan or buses: 4, 9, 10, 17, 20, 22, 24, 28, 29, 33, 39, 45, 46, 53, 61, 62, 64, 65, 70, 74, 86, 93, 126, 130, 143, 152, 159 y 186.
La Boca
> El Caminito: “Caminito” is a street located in La Boca, a neighborhood in Buenos Aires recognized for its cultural and tra- ditional significance. This street has many shops and museums and you will find all types of arts and crafts, gifts and many typical argentine accessories.
> Boca Juniors Stadium: No visit to Argentina would be complete without experiencing in some shape or form the passion for football (soccer) that Argentines have. A great way to do this is to take a guided tour of La Boca Junior Stadium. The tour starts off with a visit of a museum filled with photos and trophies and then proceeds to visit every aspect of the stadium, including the field. Further information is available in their website.
15 > Fundación PROA: located in the neighborhood of La Boca, Fundación PROA is a delightful place for art exhibits, using the library (which is dedicated to the Arts) and for a coffee or lunch when visiting La Boca. Art-wise, it features outstanding exhibits (note: it does not have a permanent collection). The library provides the public with material specialized in art and information on temporary exhibitions through a research centre and the possibility of Wi-Fi connection. The editorial catalogue is available to the visitor, as well as specialized collections on contemporary and Latin American art, a careful selection of Argentine contemporary poetry and literature, and books on design, architecture, fashion, cinema and photography. The café, located on the top floor, together with the terrace, feature a privileged view of La Boca’s most extraordinary land- scapes. The address is Av. Pedro de Mendoza 1929. Tel: 4104-1000. www.proa.org. Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 11 am to 7 pm. To get there take buses # 20, 25, 29, 33, 46, 53, 64, 152.
Mataderos
> Feria de Mataderos: To get your culture fix, you’ll want to head straight to the Feria de Mataderos. Here, guachos (similar to cowboys) saunter on majestic horses and market vendors offer a colorful array of crafts and food. Ornately costumed tango dancers ignite the streets with traditional country dancing and guachos rival each other in Argentinean contests to win prizes. If you tire of watching all the fun from afar, you can sign up for boleadoras (gaucho classes). And if you should get hungry, you’ll find no shortage of tasty steak sandwiches to munch on and scrumptious local wines to leisurely sip. The festive fair takes place every Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm To reach the suburban neighborhood (located in front of the Mercado Nacional de Hacienda) you can jump on Bus 126 from Retiro train station or hop in a taxi for the one-hour drive west of downtown Buenos Aires. For more information, check out the Feria de Mataderos official website (in Spanish).
Shows
> La bomba del tiempo: Every Monday night the drums sound and the hippies come out to play in the Abasto neighborhood when the group, La Bomba de Tiempo takes the stage at the Konex Cultural Center. ‘The Time Bomb’ is a 17-piece improvisational drum group that incorporates world beats including Central American and African rhythms samba and Argentine folk beats such as chacarera. Among the instruments making an appearance are congas, djembes, maracas, shakers and cowbells.
La Bomba draws lots of regulars among the 1,500 fans per week — foreign backpackers, groovy young porteños and drum-loving ragamuffins from across South America who come to mingle and dance. The show ends at 10 pm on the dot due to cranky neighbors and coding restrictions. Ciudad Cutural Konex, Sarmiento 3131, Abasto, Tel: 4864-3200. For tickets: Ticketek: 5237-7200.
> Tango: There are many, many places where to learn to dance and watch tango. Each has its own characteristics, some are for super serious dancers, who take offense from those who do not understand the dance´s etiquette, while others are friendlier and more relaxed. La Viruta, in Palermo, and La Catedral, in Almagro, are great venues where to learn first steps. In the Agenda Cultural de Buenos Aires you can find listings of all the cultural activities, many of which are fee, offered daily in the city of Buenos Aires. VuenosAirez also has a very complete listing of things to do.
Day trips
Tigre
The Tigre River Delta offers porteños (Buenos Aires residents) and tourists alike a playground for everything from horseback riding and hiking to fishing and swimming. Comprised of hundreds of tiny islands, the Tigre is about 20 miles northeast of Buenos Aires and is reachable from the city by trains, then by boat from the train station. While the main attraction here is the delta itself (formed where five rivers come together), you’ll also find a Naval Museum, restaurants and playgrounds for kids. Several tour companies offer day-trip excursions to the Tigre River Delta—but visitors also can book stays in area bed & breakfasts and adventure lodges. There are two trains, a couple of buses and a commuter boat that go to Tigre from Buenos Aires.
> Mitre Train: The most economical way to get to Tigre from Buenos Aires is via the Linea Mitre train. This train begins at Retiro station. Those staying in the northern areas of the city can board at a later stop such as Belgrano C. Tickets cost roughly AR$4. Trains leave every 10 minutes on weekdays, every 20 minutes on weekends and the journey takes about an hour.
> Tren de la Costa: For those who want to travel in style, the Tren de La Costa (Coastal Train) takes tourists to various stops along the river. Revamped as a tourist attraction in 1995, this train offers pictures of Delta views and stops at 11 train stations, many
16 refurbished, along the way. One type of ticket takes you straight to your destination while another allows you to get on and off the train as you please. To ride the Tren de la Costa, take the Mitre train described above from Retiro via the Mitre line and at the “Olivos” station you can change trains, crossing the tracks and heading to the Tren de La Costa station. The standard gauge electric train cabins are climate controlled. The train costs almost exactly eight times more than the very affordable Mitre train outlined above, but it is intended as an half day or day-long excursion in itself. Some worthwhile stops include Borges Station, named after the writer, and dubbed the ‘Station of the Arts;’ the English-style Barrancas Sta- tion; and San Isidro where a small urban center offers leisurely shopping and outdoor pubs and restaurants.
> Buses to Tigre: It is also possible to take the number 60 bus from various points throughout the city but the journey takes at least an hour and a half, usually more. Another option for those staying in a northern part of the city such as Palermo or Belgrano is to take the 152 bus to Mitre station where you can catch the Tren de la Costa. This option avoids backtracking to Retiro to take the train.
> Commuter Boat to Tigre: Monday through Friday it is also possible to take a commuter boat from Dock Four in Puerto Madero to Tigre, but there is only one boat per day, at 6:30 p.m. This is a good Friday evening option if planning to spend the weekend in Tigre. Tickets need to be reserved at least 20 minutes before launch time. Check the Proa Urbana page of SturlaViajes, the company that runs the commuter boat, to make reservations.
Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
The historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento, founded in 1680, evokes old Lisbon with its Portuguese-influenced architec- ture and winding streets. The area, located in southwestern Uruguay on the Rio de la Plata, was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. It’s an easy day trip by ferry from Buenos Aires, making the beaches a popular Argentinean escape. Major sights include Iglesia Matriz, the country’s oldest church, the Municipal Museum and a 17th-century port jutting into the river. Buquebus and Colonia Express have daily services to Colonia.
Useful information Weather
In Argentina the weather is measured in degrees Celsius. Buenos Aires has a temperate climate with average temperatures ranging from 94°F (35°C) in January to 22.3°F (-5.4°C) in July. The heaviest rain falls are during Autumn and Spring, however, rain can be expected at any time of the year. February, correlates to the end of the summer and it is one of the hottest months of the year.
Our seasons are evenly distributed throughout the year and, compared to the Northern Hemisphere, they are reversed: our winter season is from June to September, our spring season is from September to December, December to March is our summer season and March to June is the autumn season.
Humidity in Buenos Aires is very high and varies from 65% to 85% depending on the season.
To see the weather forecast: www.weather.com www.lanacion.com.ar
Time
Argentina is located at a longitude that would naturally put it in the UTC−4 or UTC−5time zone, but it actually uses the UTC−3 time zone. It has only one time zone. To find out the times in Buenos Aires and in your home city check out www.timeanddate.com.
Electricity
The electric current operates on 220 volts, 50 cycles. Heating appliances (such as curling or straight irons) will not work if they have a Hertz cycle of 60. Most hotels and offices use the three-pin flat type plug. However, older buildings use the two- pin round type plug. Adapters may be bought at any hardware store and the drugstore chain Farmacity.
Shopping areas Shops are usually open from Monday to Friday from 10 am to 8 pm and on Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm. Malls are open from Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm.
Malls in Buenos Aires:
17 Abasto Shopping www.abasto-shopping.com.ar
Paseo Alcorta www.paseoalcorta.com.ar
Alto Palermo www.altopalermo.com.ar
Patio Bullrich www.shoppingbullrich.com.ar
Dot Baires Shopping www.dotshopping.com.ar
Unicenter www.unicenter.com.ar
Galerías Pacífico www.progaleriaspacifico.com.ar
Streets where you can find nice shops for clothes, shoes, house decorations, etc.:
> Avenida Córdoba
> Avenida Santa Fé
> Avenida Cabildo
> Calle Florida
Embassies
We strongly advise that you contact your Embassy to let them know that you are here and how long you will be in Buenos Aires for. The advantage of doing so is that if there is a big celebration (i.e. Independence Day) while you are here, chances are that the Embassy will invite you to the commemorations they organize. Also, should there be some major disaster, the Embassy will know you the Embassy willl know that you are here and will provide you with support should you need it. You can find a list of all Consulates and Embassies in Argentina here.
Communications The use of cell phones in Argentina is more expensive than using a land line. However, calling any cell phone from a land line is more expensive than making a call from cell phone to cell phone.
Since using cellphones to talk is way more expensive than in other countries, people tend to text message or use whatsapp rather than calling. The main cell phone companies are Movistar, Claro and Personal.
The cellphones we offer at UTDT work with Movistar. You can charge your cellphone at a kiosko or at a locutorio. When you get to any of these stores ask if they work with “carga virtual” and if they do tell them the cellphone company name, your cellphone number and the amount you would like to charge. If the kiosko or locutorio doesn’t work with “carga virtual” ask if they have cellphone cards.
In order to make international calls people use calling cards (which may be bought at kioskos or big pharmacies), Skype, or locutorios (shops with individual booths which have reasonable prices for calling abroad).
> For calling abroad dial 00 (double zero) + country’s area code + city’s area code > Area code for Argentina: 54 > Area code for Buenos Aires: 11 > Area code for calling a cell phone: 9
Cell phones always start with the number 15 and have a total of 10 numbers (15 + 8 numbers). If calling any cell phone from a landline, you should dial the number with the 15. However, if making a call between two Argentine cell phones, instead of 15 you can dial 11 + the other 8 numbers of the cell phone number.
18 > For calling a Buenos Aires landline from abroad you should dial: 00 + 54 (Argentina) + 11 (Buenos Aires) + telephone number
> For example: to call the International Programs Office from abroad you have to dial 00 54 11 5169 7276
> For calling a Buenos Aires cellphone from abroad you should dial: 00 + 54 (Argentina) + 9 (Cell phone) + 11 (Buenos Aires) + other 8 digits from the cell phone number without dialing the 15.
> For example: to call the International Programs emergency phone you have to dial 00 54 9 11 3548 8698
> Any telephone number that starts with 0-800 has no cost and those which start with 0-810 have the same cost as a local call.
Important telephone numbers
Universidad Torcuato Di Tella Tel: 5169-7276 / 7211 / 7264 (9 am to 6 pm) Emergency phone: 1535488698
Police: 911/101 Emergencies: 107 Firemen: 100 Tel: 4381-2222 / 4951-2222
Jorge Newbery Airport Tel: 4514-1515
Ezeiza International Airport Tel: 4480-0224/0092
Buquebus (Trips to Uruguay) Tel: 4316-6500 www.buquebus.com
Colonia Express (Trips to Uruguay) Tel: 4317-4100 http://coloniaexpress.com/ar
Seacat (Trips to Uruguay) Tel: 4314-5100 www.seacatcolonia.com/
Tourist Information Tel: 4312-2232 / 0800-555-0016
Cultural tips While globalization and mass communications have somewhat made cultures more homogeneous, fortunately, there are still differences, which, when recognized and accepted can be truly enriching.
It is common for people who stay a long time in a different culture to experience what is known as culture shock. This emotional roller- coaster like state is considered a natural (and perhaps even essential) part of adjusting to a new culture.
It often features three stages, although these often overlap: one of fascination with everything new; one of deception and longing for home, and the final one, of acceptance and well-being. During the first phase, also known and the honeymoon period, the person is fascinated about everything the new culture has to offer; everything is exciting and interesting. The second stage is one of dislike and disenchantment; some of the new things, which before seemed fascinating, are now annoying. During this phase people often compare things in the new place with those at home, coming to the conclusion that home is better. In the third stage a balance between the honeymoon fascination and the deception, impatience and anger of the second phase merge and the person comes to terms with the new culture and all it has to offer.
While most people go through culture shock without major emotional or physical changes, some feel it very strongly. If you have changes in your mood, eating or sleeping habits that last more than three weeks, please come see us.
Learning and respecting local customs
Learning what behaviors are and are not appropriate in a new setting and acting accordingly is part of getting to know and understanding a new culture. To do this, make sure to ask questions about what you do not understand or find peculiar and observe the way in which people interact with one another, the way they behave and how they dress for the different occasions. Some things to take into consideration:
19 Greetings
> When greeting for the first time Argentines may give a brief embrace with a kiss on the cheek. Only in very formal situations (i.e. a business interview or meeting someone with a very high rank) will the kiss be replaced by a handshake.
> Both men and women greet friends, whether male or female, with a kiss on the cheek.
Personal space
> Different cultures have different personal spaces, that is to say. In Argentina, people tend to stand quite close to one another. We also “invade” each other´s space with our hands, which we use a lot when we talk, not only to emphasize points but also to touch the person one is talking to.
> If you ever have to pass between two people who are holding a conversation, make sure to ask “permiso” (pardon, excuse me). Otherwise, you will be considered very rude.
Other customs
> Yawning withour covering one´s mouth is considered impolite.
> When approaching someone to ask for help or directions, it is customary to first greet them.
> Pointing one’s finger is considered rude.
> Opening doors for and forfeiting seats to women and the elderly are common practices.
Lunfardo Lunfardo is the local slang, which has its roots in the language spoken by the many immigrants (mostly Spanish and Italian) who moved to Argentina between the 1860 and 1960s. See some examples below:
Phrase Meaning in Spanish Meaning in English
Bochar una materia Desaprobar una materia To fail an exam
Bancar a alguien Darle apoyo, consejos a alguien To help somebody with moral support
Birra Cerveza Beer
Boliche Discoteca Night club
Bombilla Sorbete de mate Straw to drink mate
Bondi Colectivo Bus
Bronca Enojo Annoyed
Chabón Muchacho Boy/young man
Chamuyar Mentir/Seducir a alguien To seduce someone with a lie, a smile or a phrase
Che Lllamar a alguien Used to call someone
Choripán Sandwich de chorizo Sausage sandwich
Chocho Contento Happy
Dar una mano Ayudar Help
Enchastre Suciedad To dirty something
Fiaca Pereza To be lazy
20 Guita Plata/dinero Money
Hacer la gamba Ayudar a alguien To help someone
Laburo Trabajo Work
Mina Mujer Woman
Flaco/a Hombre/mujer Man/woman
Pilcha Ropa Clothes
Tipo Hombre Man
Trucho/Falso Falso/mentiroso Liar
Section III: Universidad Torcuato Di Tella (UTDT)
Facilities and services
International students have access to all the University´s facilities and services.
ATM machine
There is an ATM machine located in the -1 level of the Alcorta Building.
21 Bonditeliano
The Di Tella bus takes you from the Campus Alcorta to Avenida Cabildo and Juramento and back to Campus Alcorta. From March to December, it passes every 20 minutes from Monday to Friday except for public holidays. From mid December through the end of Febraury the bus runs every 40 minutes. The bonditeliano has 3 stops that connect you to different public services:
Avenida Libertador - Bus stops: 130, 15, 29, 107, 42
Barrancas de Belgrano - Train station
Avenida Cabildo and Juramento - Subway station “Juramento” (Linea D)
Please see timetables here.
Cafeteria
The cafeteria offers a wide variety of meals. Payment can only be made with cash. From Feburary to December the cafeteria is open Monday through Friday from 8.30 am to 9.30 pm and Saturday from 8 am to 4.30 pm. From January through February the cafeteria closes at 6 pm. We also have a coffee shop next to the parking lot called “Oui Oui” which offers a variety of options for breakfast, lunch and tea time.
CEDIT
Cedit is the University´s Student Government. They are a great source of information about things happening at UTDT, volunteering activities and student parties. Please visit their website for more information: www.utdt.edu/cedit.
Changing rooms
There are changing rooms with showers in the -1 level of the Alcorta Building and next to the sports area.
Computer lab
The Computer Lab is located next to the Sáenz Valiente lounges. It is open during regular school hours. To log into the computers you must use:
> User name: your student ID number > Password: utdt2015
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit and medicines (i.e. aspirin, bandaids, etc.) are available at the Servicios para el Estudiante Department (SPE).
Legajo number
The legajo is the student ID number. You will need to know this number for your written exams, for printing, registering for events, etc.
Library
In order to borrow books from the library you have to go there in person to register. Once you are registered, you can request and renew loans on-line at www.utdt.edu/biblioteca
From Feberuary through December the library is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 8 pm and Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm. In January, the library is open from 9 am to 12 pm. Enquiries may be made at [email protected].
Lockers
Lockers may be rented per semester from the Servicios para el Estudiante (SPE) department, located in the ground floor, next to the cafeteria. Servicios para el Estudiante (SPE) is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm.
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Printing
All printing is done in the print shop La Copia, located in the -1 level of the Alcorta building. To print you can either save the document onto a flash drive and bring it to La Copia or you can email it to [email protected]. Printing is not free: you will always have to pay for your paper and after printing 300 copies, you will also have to pay for the printing. At La Copia professors sometimes leave class materials for their students to copy.
Sports and leisure activities
The Department of Sports and Leisure Activities offers a variety of sports and cultural things to do. These run from the last week of February through the end of each semester.
Sports include: > Basquetball > Chess > Football > Golf > Hockey > Running > Swimming > Tennis > Volleyball
In order to participate in these sports students must present an apto médico, which is a licensed doctor’s note indicating that the student´s health allows him/her to do sports. This certificate must be written in English or Spanish and must be an original, issued no more than two months prior to the start of the activities at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella.
Students may also participate in the choir, writing contests and language and theatre lessons. More information may be found at www.utdt.edu/deportes
Student ID
In order to get into and out of the University and to use the bonditelliano, you will need to show your student ID. If you lose your student ID please make sure to let us know immediately. A replacement fee will apply.
The student ID also gives access to the special discounts available to UTDT students. These may be found at www.utdt. edu/deportes in the Convenios y beneficios section.
Academic information Grading system
The Universidad Torcuato Di Tella uses the following grading system. The passing grade is C or 4. Since there is no grade inflation at UTDT, only very good and dedicated students obtain As.
A Outstanding 10
A- Outstanding minus 9
B+ Very good plus 8
B Very good 7
B- Very good minus 6
C+ Satisfactory plus 5
C Satisfactory 4
D Fail 2
F Fail 1
23 Class attendance
Since class participation is very important, it is required that students attend to at least 80% of the courses’ lessons. Should the student need to miss class due to a health issue, he/she will be required to show a doctor´s note indicating the length of thetreatmentneeded and the number of days the student will need to miss class.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is a very serious crime at UTDT, which may be punished with failure and even dismissal from the University. It is thus, very important to correctly quote other authors´ work in every paper.
Evaluation
Every course has at least two evaluation instances. These are usually a mid-term and a final-exam. These may be written, oral or in the form of a paper. Exam dates are non-changeable. Should an exam be missed, there are no make-up dates. This leads to automatic course failure.
Section IV: Department of International Programs Contact Information
Alex Markman Tania Sturla Tatiana Cuadra Director International Programs Coordinator Incoming Student Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 5169-7276 5169-7264 5169-7211
Office hours: Monday to Friday 9 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm. 24 hour emergency line: 15 35488698. We wish you a wonderful time at UTDT and in Buenos Aires!
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