Smithsonian Journeys Introduces Study Abroad Programs for High School Students

In recognition of the Smithsonian’s renewed focus on international cultural exchange, Smithsonian Journeys—the Institution’s educational travel program—introduces a new Study Abroad Program for high school students. These three-week summer programs offer students an immersion experience where they can learn language skills under the tutelage of top teachers, experience the culture through classroom settings and meetings with local students and visit important cultural sites during weekend excursions. Destinations for summer 2010 include Beijing; Avila, Spain; and Florence, Italy.  

Students will engage in local life through activities that connect them to their host country peers, create friendships with local people and learn by doing. Each program features three weeks of intensive coursework (including language immersion), special guest speakers and excursions. Cultural understanding is central to the program as students focus on history, contemporary life, government, politics and the arts. Service programs are integrated into the China and Spain programs. Although academic rigor is expected, students also learn by living like their peers in their host country. Student accommodations are located in comfortable dormitory settings, conveniently located to academic sites. During weekend excursions, students will explore important historic sites to further their cultural understanding.

Smithsonian Journeys, renowned for top-quality educational travel for 40 years, is working with CET Academic Programs, a private study-abroad organization that has administered overseas programs for students since 1982. Both Smithsonian Journeys and CET ensure high academic standards, innovative approaches and careful student management in a safe and stimulating environment.

Registration for Smithsonian Studies Abroad for High School Students is now open for the 2010 summer session for students who have completed grade 9 or higher. Scholarships are available as well as special opportunities for high school educators who are interested in bringing a group of students. For more details visit www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/studies_abroad or call 1 (877) 338-8687.

About Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the Smithsonian Institution’s travel program, with more than 39 years dedicated to life-enriching experiences worldwide. Annually, more than 200 expert-led international and domestic itineraries offer travelers exclusive access and unforgettable experiences. For more information, call 1 (877) EDU-TOUR (338-8687) or visit www.SmithsonianJourneys.org.

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SI-372A-2009