What a country of contradictions! It's immediately beautiful, friendly, energetic and fascinating, filled with music, culture and magic. At the same time, it's relaxed, trapped in time; cars from the 1950s run on streets with shabby storefronts. It's a world unencumbered by modern conveniences such as fast wifi, yet the more frustrating it gets, the more you fall in love with it. It is the Cuban soul that makes the island irresistible.
Cuba is one of the safest, kindest countries and its climate, culture, music and traditions bring thousands of visitors yearly. Arcadia has been bringing students to Cuba for summer study abroad programs since 2012, in academic collaboration with the prestigious University of Havana, and its Center for Hemispheric and U.S. Studies.
As a student here, you will be immersed in a culture that is multi-faceted and exciting. You'll stroll through cobbled streets of faded grandeur that evoke mysteries and adventure of time gone by. You'll also notice how the first buds of private enterprise are starting to grow, creating pockets of renovation and innovation. There is truly no better time to visit the fascinating place.
While you will have to navigate certain challenges due to the difficult economic situation (internet access not always readily available, a more traditional education system), the idiosyncrasies of Cubans, their openness and welcoming attitude towards foreigners and rich social life make this experience incomparable to any other.
You will also have the Arcadia staff in country near-hand for support in all areas, including Health and Safety, academic guidance, orientation and settling into the fabric of everyday life. Our Resident Director also organizes excursions, events and activities to help you make the most of your time here.
Our friendly and convenient student residence, located in the Vedado area of Havana, is always a hit with students. It is just a 25-minute walk to the main campus and only a few blocks from our Resident Director's accommodation.
As former participants in the program have put into words: “Cuba makes you appreciate all the things you have, makes you re-evaluate who you are as an American and as a citizen of the world and makes you re-assess your life objectives and goals.”
