Barbados (English and/or Sociology)
Experience the vibrant culture, history, and traditions of Barbados while earning credit in English or Sociology. Through visits to museums, historic towns, cultural landmarks, and community organizations, you'll explore the island's rich blend of Indigenous, African, European, and Caribbean influences. Highlights include Bridgetown, Rock Hall Freedom Village, Bajan storytelling experiences, local cuisine, and immersive cultural workshops that bring course concepts to life.
- Dates: July 2027 (dates TBD) (12 days)
- Locations: You’ll be studying the entire time in one location while taking day trips to various sites. Such as Bridgetown, Holetown, Oistins, and Speightstown.
- Course(s): English Composition II (EN 102) and/or Principles of Sociology (SO 251)
- Trip Cost: $4,600
- Faculty Leader and Support Person: Mursalata Muhammad and Daisy Henderson
- Program Highlights:
- Explore Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit museums, historic landmarks, and cultural heritage sites
- Learn about Barbados' Indigenous, African, and colonial history
- Experience local cuisine, music, and traditions
- Engage with community organizations and local residents
- Reflect on culture, identity, and global perspectives through course activities
- Travel Style: Moderate — Includes day trips, cultural site visits, museums, community experiences, and walking at historic/cultural locations.
Portugal/Spain (English)
This trip offers a unique opportunity to walk the Camino de Santiago, explore historic cities like Porto, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula. The trip combines literature, history, and personal growth as students reflect on their social identities and positionalities while traveling. Before departure, you'll engage in pre-trip classes to explore the significance of the pilgrimage, prepare for the physical and emotional challenges of the journey, and gain practical travel skills. On-site, you'll walk the Camino at your own pace, interacting with locals and fellow pilgrims from around the world, while daily journal prompts and group discussions help deepen your experience. After completing over 170 miles of the Camino, you’ll receive your Compostela certificate and reflect on your journey through a final photo essay. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore new perspectives, develop a deeper understanding of self, and make lasting memories. Apply now for an unforgettable adventure!
- Dates: First Summer 2027 Session, June 4–19, 2027
- Locations: You’ll be traveling/hiking from Porto, Portugal to Santiago de Compostela Spain.
- Course(s): Popular Literature (EN 242)
- Prerequisite: EN 101
- Trip Cost: $5,000
- Faculty Leader and Support Person: Sean Mackey and Megan Coakley
- Program Highlights:
- Walk over 170 miles of the Camino Portugués Coastal Route
- Stay in European hotels or pilgrim accommodations each night — this is not a camping trip
- Visit Porto and Santiago de Compostela
- Earn your Compostela pilgrimage certificate
- Experience local history, culture, and traditions
- Connect with pilgrims from around the world
- Reflect through journaling and group discussions
- Travel Style: Active — Includes outdoor excursions, natural terrain, changing weather conditions, and visits to environmental and cultural sites.
Iceland (Environmental Science)
Discover one of the world's most unique natural laboratories while exploring glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, geothermal areas, and coastal ecosystems throughout Iceland. Students will examine environmental science concepts firsthand while learning about sustainability, renewable energy, geology, and conservation through immersive field experiences.
- Dates: June 12–24, 2027
- Locations: Reykjavík, Westfjords, North Iceland, East Iceland, and South Iceland
- Course(s): Environmental Science (BI 118)
- Trip Cost: $3,595–$4,448 (subject to change; GRCC tuition not included)
- Faculty Leader(s): Meredith Harleton and Niki Evans
- Highlights:
- Geothermal power plants and renewable energy
- Glacier and climate change studies
- Whale watching and puffin habitats
- Arctic Fox Center
- Sustainable farms and reforestation projects
- Glacier lagoon boat tour
- National parks, waterfalls, and black sand beaches
- Icelandic culture and Midsummer Festival
- Travel Style: Moderate — Frequent bus travel with moderate walking on uneven natural terrain and outdoor excursions.
*Please Note: All trip costs are estimates and are subject to change. GRCC tuition is not included in the program cost.