Summer Field Studies


Summer Field Studies programs are small, investigative, faculty-led study seminars. They offer an opportunity for original inquiry in lesser-traveled settings. Summer Field Study is intended especially for students who want to practice connecting across cultures under new and occasionally challenging conditions. Seminars depart in May and are typically one month long.


Spring 2012 Summer Field Studies

May 8-June 6, 2012

Rwanda: Service in the Heart of Africa
Global Studies
Amy Watkin, English
Estimated seminar cost: $4,500 plus tuition $3,200

If you are adventurous and flexible; if you have a strong desire to learn and to serve; and if you are interested in a Summer Field Studies journey that promises to be eventful, challenging, and rewarding, Rwanda: Service in the Heart of Africa, is definitely for you. While in Rwanda, a beautiful and interesting country with a fascinating culture and history, you'll meet warm and friendly people; help those who are working to improve their lives; and live BREW by participating in five life-changing weeks of service and learning.
We will spend the first two weeks teaching English to genocide orphans in Kigali, Rwanda's capital. In their early twenties, these students are very motivated and eager to learn. We'll work in large and small groups using question and answer sessions, storytelling, songs and games. The students will be a joy to work with and to teach. We'll spend the next two weeks in Musanze, a regional center in the north, where we'll teach at a primary school and help at a school for deaf children. The children at both schools are delightful-our hearts will stay with them forever! During orientation, and on weekends, we'll visit Butare, home of the National Museum and University; Gisenyi, on Lake Kivu; Akagera Game Park; and genocide memorials. We'll also visit an artisan group and we'll learn about NGO work in Rwanda.
Though no special training or experience is needed, during Spring semester and during orientation in Rwanda, we'll prepare for, and practice our teaching. Students will also be provided with a thorough introduction to the culture and history of Rwanda and comprehensive information about what to bring and what to expect. Though Rwanda is a very poor country and though the aftermath of the 1994 genocide permeates Rwandan society, it is very peaceful and safe. And it is beautiful-with its verdant hills, volcanoes, lakes, and wildlife.
All food and lodging is included in the cost.

Connecting with People in the Middle East
Global Studies
Stewart Herman, Religion
Estimated seminar cost: $6,450 plus tuition $3,200

For four weeks, we will explore common ground with the people of the Middle East. This field study is intended especially for students who want to practice connecting across cultures under challenging but secure conditions. First, in Jordan we will stay in the homes of Jordanian families for nine days, learning Arabic, exploring the fascinating Mediterranean hill country on trails and performing small service projects in a number of locations. We will live in close learning contact with local Muslims, and far off the tourist track. Second, we will drive south, swimming in the Dead Sea, and spend two days on your own in the stunning red-rock ruins of Petra. Third, we will ferry to Egypt, climb into the rugged Sinai granite country. Our major project will be to build a dam to capture runoff for gardens of the local Bedouin. Then we will hike overland and camp on Mt. Sinai, then take camels deep into the desert. Fourth, we will cool off with a plunge in the Red Sea, then drive to Cairo and see the Pyramids, Tahrir Square, and the grand musueum of Egyptian antiquities before flying home. (Program Website)

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