Location

Salamanca and Madrid, Spain

Dates

June 1 - 8, 2025

Registration Opens

October 18, 2024

Program Description

Are you a family member of a current JMU Duke? You’re invited to join us on this Family Engagement study abroad program to Spain! This opportunity is designed to give our families a taste of the study abroad experience. 

The JMU Families Abroad: A Taste of Study Abroad in Spain is a one-week, hands-on, learning abroad program designed specifically for JMU students and their family members. This unique initiative aims to encourage global mindedness, support study abroad opportunities, and provide both JMU students and their parents with a transformative international experience. By including family members, the program fosters continued cultural growth and shared experiences that can be integrated into everyday life upon returning home. 

By attending this program, participants will be able to experience: 

• Hands-On Learning: Engage in immersive educational activities such as guided tours, cultural workshops, and university visits.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Spain through excursions to Salamanca and Madrid, including visits to historical landmarks and participation in local traditions.
• Family Bonding: Strengthen family ties through shared international experiences, fostering mutual understanding and growth.
• Community Impact: Return with new perspectives that can be applied within local communities, fostering a more globally aware society.

Tentative Itineary 
subject to change, to be confirmed in the spring

Day 1: Arrival in Salamanca | Welcome dinner and evening introduction to Salamanca

Day 2: Exploring Salamanca | Guided walking tours and explorations of cultural landmarks

Day 3: Academic Experience | Visit to the University of Salamanca and engage in a cultural activity

Day 4: Excursion to La Alberca | Day trip to historic town for tour and picnic

Day 5: Study Abroad Information Session | An overview of the Semester in Spain study abroad program and free time for independent local exploration

Day 6: Travel to Madrid | Guided tour of Madrid's famous sites

Day 7: Madrid Highlights | Visit the Prado Museum, engage in free time for shopping and personal exploration, and attend a farewell dinner

Day 8: Depart Madrid

Location Description

Salamanca, located in northwestern Spain (about two hours from Madrid), retains its enchanting medieval character. The city has been occupied by the Carthaginians, the Romans, the Vandals, the Moors and the Castilians. Hannibal, Columbus, Fray Luis de Leon, Cervantes and Unamuno are among the famous residents of the city. As the oldest university in Spain and third in Europe, the University of Salamanca was founded in 1218 by King Alfonso IX.

Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Salamanca, a Spanish gem where history and academia intertwine. Wander through its medieval streets, adorned with stunning architecture, and be captivated by the grandeur of the Universidad de Salamanca, one of the oldest in Europe. Bask in the lively atmosphere of Plaza Mayor, where the past meets the present in a vibrant tapestry of culture and community.

The city of Salamanca is ideal for foreign students because of its beautiful setting and small size. It is a great location to explore and experience the Spanish culture and history. Salamanca is enriched with theatres, concerts and museums that represent the cultural dimension of Spanish history. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, embracing the Spanish language, or savoring local cuisine, Salamanca promises an enriching study abroad experience that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity.

Director

Tracey Kite | kitetl@jmu.edu | Director of Family Engagement

Cost

$2,800 | Cost includes accommodations, meals, on-site transpiration, guided tours, and cultural activities. Cost does not include airfare.

Accommodations

Housing is in downtown Salamanca and central Madrid. All attendees will be in shared hotel rooms with family members in either double or triples, depending on family size. 

Registration Process

Sign-up link will open on October 18, 2024 at the bottom of this webpage. To commit to the program, all participants must pay $1,000 deposit that goes toward the overall program fee. Of this deposit, $500 is considered non-refundable. The remaining program fee is due by February 1, 2025.

Please note: When registering, you will see the full program balance. On the final screen prior to processing payment, you can select to only pay the deposit. 

By registering for the program, all participants agree to abide by the: 

• participation agreement
• withdrawal policy

All participants will be contacted within one week of registration to complete a profile in Terra Dotta and complete necessary forms to finalize registration.

Additional Items to Consider

Must have a valid passport. No visas are needed to travel to Spain.

Participants will travel independently to Spain where they will meet the Program Director. More details will be shared upon registration confirmation.

Family members aged 18+ of a current JMU Duke are eligible to participate. Maximum three participants per family.