Cyprus has one of the oldest recorded histories in the world. Its geopolitical location has resulted in Cyprus being a desirable territorial acquisition throughout the centuries, and occupation by Louisianans, Venetians, and the Ottomans introduced additional religious groups to the majority-Greek island. The rich history of the island, intersection of many cultures and religious identities lends the perfect backdrop to discuss issues of race, cultural identity, oppression and colonialism in a global context.

In the prep course, students will study race, cultural identity, sexual orientation, and disability from an interdisciplinary approach. On site, students will visit cultural Cypriot sites including museums of Byzantine art, Greek ruins, Kykkos Monastery, and explore Old Nicosia. Students will also participate in a three day cultural training facilitated by Youth for Exchange and Understanding Cyprus, a local nonprofit organization specializing in intercultural communication.

This course is most appropriate for students interested in diversity and inclusion, cultural identity, history or intercultural communication.

The academic course associated with this program is INS 398/399: Tolerance, Cultural Diversity & The Island that Everybody Wanted. It will be taught by Drs. Varvara Pasiali and Jeff Thomas.

The prep course will meet on Monday nights from 6:00-8:30 throughout the Fall semester. Please ensure this course fits in your schedule. After students are selected, the PCIE will have students registered in the prep course.

This is a SELECTIVE program.

*Itinerary and planned activities subject to change.*