UW-Stevens Point to offer groundbreaking program in Havana, Cuba
For decades, Cuba has remained off limits to most Americans as a consequence of the U.S. government embargo enacted against that country following the 1959 ascension to power of Fidel Castro.
In January 2013, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is poised to become the first public institution in the state—and one of only a few in the country—to offer undergraduate credits for a new short-term study abroad program in Cuba.
Tentatively scheduled for January 6–20, 2013, and based in the capital city of Havana, “The Cuban Revolution” will offer students insight into the island’s history, politics, economy and society. Students will keep handwritten diaries while in Cuba to allow them to process their daily experiences and to contemplate the nature of its historical development. In addition to course time, students will participate in guided tours and excursions of Havana and surrounding areas and will have ample time for personal exploration, including sightseeing, dining and interacting with locals.
Anju Reejhsinghani, assistant professor of Latin American and Caribbean history, conceived and is leading the program. Reejhsinghani earned a doctorate and master’s degrees in history from The University of Texas at Austin and a bachelor’s degree in history from Princeton University. She joined the UW-Stevens Point faculty in 2010.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for students to learn about the ongoing changes first-hand and to meet regular people in Cuba, rather than relying on outdated media stereotypes to shape their opinions,” Reejhsinghani stated, referring to the gradual but significant transition away from Soviet-style communism that Cuba has made since the end of the Cold War and particularly since Raúl Castro, Fidel’s younger brother, took power in 2006. “For American students, there is no better time to go.”
“The Cuban Revolution” has places for 25 participants. UW System students in good academic standing who apply before the May 15 deadline will receive first consideration, but the program welcomes applicants from other colleges and universities as well as those in the wider community who wish to audit the course. For an additional fee, graduate credit is available to holders of baccalaureate degrees.
For more information or to receive an application, contact the International Programs office at 715-346-2717 or visit www.uwsp.edu/studyabroad. Questions about the program’s educational goals and content may be directed to Reejhsinghani at 715-346-4122 or areejhsi@uwsp.edu.
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