Location

Antigua, Guatemala

Program Description

The Culture, History and Environment of Guatemala introduces students to the language, landscape, people and history of a nation at the heart of Mayan civilization and later Spanish colonization. The city of Antigua, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as the program base, offering the opportunity for students to explore and immerse in the city’s culture while also being near outdoor adventure opportunities. The program offers the opportunity to hone your Spanish skills in an immersive short course upon arrival that includes cooking classes and salsa lessons. Student may also choose to hike Acatenango, a volcano rising up to over 13,000 feet. We will visit Mayan ruins on our way to Lake Atitlan, widely considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, for several nights of home stays with local families. Students will learn about the resiliency of culture and language and how Spanish colonization and Mayan culture influence Guatemala today. The program will meet virtually for an introduction focused on culture and history prior to travel. Upon returning students will complete a final collaborative project reflecting on their travel experience.

The course will be delivered in a hybrid format. With pre-departure meetings focused on history, culture and context and logistics. While traveling, students will visit museums, nature preserves, national parks, meet local language instructors and stay with local families.

Location Description

The program begins in the city of Antigua, situated in a valley within the Sierra Madre mountain range. Antigua served as the capital for Spanish colonial rule in Central America for over 200 years. It’s well-preserved baroque style buildings create a beautiful urban landscape, contrasted with stunning volcanic mountains and coffee plantations outside of the city. Lake Atitlán will be home for several nights and is known for a thriving community influenced by Mayan culture. Before heading back to Antigua, the group will visit El Paredon a small Pacific coastal town known for its black sandy beaches and surfing.

Director

Shaun Mooney | mooneyms@jmu.edu | Centennial Scholars

Accommodations

Students will share rooms in Antigua with cabin and tree house rooms overlooking the city and valley below. Rooms are double occupancy with private showers. Home stay accommodations are single occupancy with a family hosting individual students. Transportation is available for access to activities and cultural site visits.

All meals will be provided as part of the program. Meals may be organized for the group, or students will be able to choose their preferred meal option for selected activities and days.

Additional Items to Consider

A visa is not required for US citizens. Immunizations and vaccines are not required.

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must have a GPA minimum of 2.0.

Open to undergraduate students in all class levels and majors.