Summer Study Abroad

Embark on a transformative journey in the Azores with "Catching the Wave," a 3-week program seamlessly blending surfing, mindfulness, and philosophy. Engage in daily surf sessions harmonized while practicing mindfulness and studying its Buddhist roots. Discussions will unravel the contemporary relevance of mindfulness, bridging philosophy and psychology with the physicality of surfing. The stunning Azorean backdrop becomes an integral part of our exploration, inspiring conversations on the intertwined aspects of nature, mind, and body. Immerse yourself in an interdisciplinary experience that effortlessly connects ancient wisdom with modern discourse, providing a profound understanding of self and the world. By the program's end, not only will you master surfing, mindfulness, and philosophical concepts, but you'll also carry a unique perspective on the psychology of meditation and the philosophies of Spinoza, Merleau-Ponty, and Deleuze. Join us for an unforgettable journey of self-discovery and intellectual exploration. 

Check out the video of the course on YouTube

Faculty: Dr. Marc Demont

Cost: $4,690

In this course, students will be making ceramics alongside Malaysian artisans and will consider how to make photographs as a member of a growing cross-cultural community, rather than slipping into the tourist habit of exotification. Malaysia fosters experiential and interdisciplinary learning in a wide variety of locations ripe for the study of ceramics and photography. Students will engage with landscape, culture, colonial influence, and community through activities in the bustling urban metropolis of Kuala Lumpur; the historic port cities of Melaka and Penang; and the lush biodiversity of both the mountainous rainforests of Cameron Highlands and the resort islands of Langkawi. This course invites both the beginner and the advanced student.

Faculty: Stephanie Galli & Michelle Burdine

Cost: $4,300

In this program students will take part in the Graz International School, where they will learn alongside students from all over the world as well as international faculty and staff. The theme of the international school is Conflict, Challenge, and Change: State - Society - Religion- offering a discussion on how conflict, challenge, and change determine our lives as individuals and as a society.

Faculty: Dr. Satty Flaherty-Echeverria

Cost: $4,700

In this course, students will investigate Scandinavian environmentalism through both academic and experiential lenses. We will pay particular attention to three dimensions that affect our ability to make sound environmental choices: socio-cultural (e.g. minimalism); structural (e.g., public transit, recycling, education); and ecological (e.g.. Access to outdoors/wild spaces). This course is grounded in a comparative framework that invites students to consider what we might learn from looking at everyday experiences in a different setting and considering how it compares with our own. As such, students will engage in reflection opportunities that will facilitate our ability to critically consider the relationship between theories about environmental action with daily lived experiences.

Faculty: Dr. Ellen Prusinski and Dr. Kaelyn Wiles

Cost $5,531