Program and Location:
Summer, Cuba: History, Environment and Culture in Havana, Havana, Cuba
Major/Minor:
History Major, Anthropology Minor
Why did you choose to study abroad?
Well, I had never left the country until I studied abroad. When I was informed about the possibility of going to Havana I was completely enthused about not just leaving the United States but also to study a more niche part of history. I also thought that going to a place like Cuba would be the perfect place to bring me out of my comfort zone!
How did you pick your program?
In the fall 2024 semester I was enrolled in Dr. Nicholas Robins’ “Global Environmental History “ course. Through this course we spoke about many different aspects of environmental history and the history of Latin American and the Caribbean. Dr. Robins, the program director informed me of the study abroad opportunity during this time. I felt more than enlightened after completing “Global Environmental History” and felt that the study abroad opportunity would make me feel the same way.. which it did!
What is something you learned about yourself? How are you different? How are you the same? Or, what did you realize about your own culture by living in another one?
While in Cuba, I made new friends from the United States as well as people from Cuba. I concluded after my departure from Havana that as people, we are all truly the same but we all have a variety of different circumstances that make us unique individuals! I also came to understand the importance of time and how every second and every action we take is extremely consequential.
What advice would you give to another student?: Complete tasks and take risks that are out of your comfort zone. Experiences like this one will guide you in becoming a better student, adult, and professional.
What advice would you give to another student?
Complete tasks and take risks that are out of your comfort zone. Experiences like this one will guide you in becoming a better student, adult, and professional.
How were your classes abroad different than if you would have taken them at NC State? Did you take any field trips or do anything outside of the traditional classroom?
Dr. Robins led the class down a super enlightening path. Instead of a standard lecture, Dr. Robins encouraged us to speak to the locals of Havana, leave the city to understand Cuban culture and the national economy. These kinesthetic experiences helped myself as well as other classmates truly grasp the importance of Cuban society and culture.
Would you do it again?
Ten times over. This study abroad opportunity cannot just be looked at as a mere experience but rather a two week period of cultural and psychological growth.
