USAC Cuba: Cuban History, Society, Politics, and Culture Studies in Havana

Havana, Cuba

Information

Area of Study:

Anthropology, Comparative Literature & Cultural Studies, Dance, Economics, History, Latin American Studies, Political Science, Spanish

Program Type:

Intensive Language, Non-UNM Program

Language of Instruction:

English, Spanish

GPA:

2.5

Language Prerequisite:

Advisor Name:

Madde Lesnewich

Advisor Email:

studyabd@unm.edu

Overview

Explore this fascinating Caribbean nation with complex, interesting politics and history
Study from the ground level the impact of African, Spanish, and American flavors on Cuban culture and society
Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this tropical island—its beaches and bays, lush vegetation, mountains, plains, and robust agricultural areas
Join field trips to significant nearby areas in Cuba

Why Study In La Habana?

The La Habana program offers an unparalleled opportunity to visit this enchanting island and legendary city to learn about its culture and society. It will also provide a unique occasion for understanding—firsthand—the multiple layers of history that make Cuba significant in North America and in Latin America. The courses will examine not only the history of former Spanish colonies, but also the twentieth-century, during which Cuba played a significant geopolitical role. The La Habana summer program will give you the opportunity to experience the past, present, and future realities of Cuban society and its fusion of Spanish, African, and American flavors to create a rich culture of its own.

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Academics

You may take three to four credits per summer session. At least one 3-credit course is required each session you are enrolled. Course availability is contingent upon student enrollment and is subject to change.

Location

The largest Caribbean island, Cuba was a key geographical and social area in the colonial Americas—offering large agriculturally rich areas, many bays, and a desirable location in the Caribbean for trade. Its history from Spanish colonial times to its time as an American territory, to independence and revolution, to the present-day authoritarian government illustrates the impact of both slavery and imperialism. Physically close but politically isolated from the United States, Cuba was also pivotal in the twentieth-century events impacting the US, from the Spanish-American War to the Cuban Missile Crisis. As a result, Cuba has maintained a cultural and mythic presence in the history of the US and surrounding region. One of the last bastions of communism, Cuba’s rich history, intriguing modern events and society, and unfolding future make it a fascinating place to live and study.

Housing

Students will fly into Panama City and will spend the first night in a hotel. The morning after arrival students will have the option of visiting the Panama Canal before flying to Cuba in the afternoon.

For your time in Cuba, you will stay in bed-and-breakfast style apartments, run by local Cubans, near the University of Habana in a student neighborhood. This style of accommodation is relatively new in Cuba but has exploded in popularity as an inexpensive and more authentic living experience. The area is only a 5-minute taxi ride to Habana Vieja (the popular, touristy part of La Habana). The Vedado neighborhood is far less touristy than Habana Vieja and offers a more authentic experience; it is also close to the recently opened American embassy. You will stay in double rooms, and there will be a few students in each apartment. There will be a common living space and kitchen so you can hang out together and cook in that area. Daily breakfast will be provided by the landlady of the apartments.

Living Accommodations for La Habana, Cuba

For your time in Cuba, you will stay in bed-and-breakfast style apartments, run by local Cubans, near the University of Habana in a student neighborhood. This style of accommodation is relatively new in Cuba but has exploded in popularity as an inexpensive and more authentic living experience. The area is only a 5-minute taxi ride to Habana Vieja (the popular, touristy part of La Habana). The Vedado neighborhood is far less touristy than Habana Vieja and offers a more authentic experience; it is also close to the recently opened American embassy. You will stay in double rooms, and there will be a few students in each apartment. There will be a common living space and kitchen so you can hang out together and cook in that area. Daily breakfast will be provided by the landlady of the apartments.

Housing info: https://usac.edu/study-abroad-programs/cuba/la-habana/about/living-accom...

Links

Costs

Fees and Deadlines