Students on this educational program to Cuba can experience first-hand a culture, society, and political system that is very different from the one they know. Students will see the blending of African traditions with Spanish traditions, an experiment in a unique, Cuban political system, and a life style that is non-materialistic . It is an exploration into a different society and into the student's own identity.

The program is sponsored by Peace and Justice Studies and the History and Political Science Department with four primary goals.

• First, it will provide students with an exposure to everyday life, culture, politics, and history of Cuba. Cuba is selected because of the important ways it is distinct from the experiences of most UVU students. We will study under Social Science, History, and Philosophy faculty at the University of Havana, with a course that will offer credit at UVU and the University of Havana. We will also engage in a personal project that will allow students to pursue personal interests related to Cuba. We will live with Cuban families.
• Second, it will provide scholars and citizens of Cuba with an opportunity to become acquainted on a face-to-face basis with students from the United States and Utah. Our past experience indicates that we create close, enduring connections with Cuban scholars. Students and faculty learn from each other. Our students are excellent examples of the positive side of the United States at a time when that is desperately needed.
• Third, students will engage in activities with Cubans in community gardens, health care facilities, schools, and NGOs to learn of their activities and support them.
• Fourth, students will have experiences that can be used in evaluating their own life plans and goals, in enriching their academic development, and in developing  skills to be included in their resumes and work skills.

Program Sites:

Havana, with side-trips to locations of interest outside of Havana (including Santa Clara, Trinidad, and Playa Giron)