As August draws to a close, we eagerly look forward to welcoming a new cohort of students to another wonderful summer program next June. This year’s program successfully brought together over 100 exceptional students from 20 American universities. During this enriching two-month journey, students engaged in academic courses, cultural immersion, and volunteer activities, fully embracing Portuguese culture while achieving their personal and educational goals.
This year’s summer program offered a diverse range of courses, including both intensive and non-intensive versions of Portuguese language classes for beginners and intermediate learners.
In June, the courses covered a wide variety of topics, each offering a unique perspective on Portuguese culture and society: at UCP the classes included “History, Art, and Cultural Identity in Contemporary Portugal” with Professor Ana Fauri (Notre Dame); and “Lisbon as a Global City: Cosmopolitanism, Diversity & Innovation” with Professor Tania Matruscelli from UC-Boulder; the University of Lisbon hosted both “Mediterranean Diet: From Landscape to Tradition and Health”; and “Sustainable Development in Portugal” with Professor Daniel Preston from Indiana University.
In July, the focus shifted to global challenges within Portugal’s cultural context, presented through four courses as part of the “Western Michigan University’s Essential Studies Program.” Each course was complemented by field visits, providing on-site examples with hands-on local experiences.
Caroline Amodeo, a student of Portuguese language, shared her experience, stating:
It’s incredibly rewarding to see how quickly my language skills have developed. Although these past two months seem to have flown by in just a week, the progress I’ve made is substantial and deeply satisfying.
Besides these courses, 10 interns from Indiana University’s O’Neill School and Brigham Young University completed a customized internship program this summer with several organizations. They earned academic credit through their respective U.S. universities. The trainees wrapped up their journey with a final presentation session at FLAD, where they shared insights into what they had learned and the new experiences they had gained.
Amelia Magyar, a second-year MPA student, interned with the Portuguese Ecological Society (SPECO). During her internship, she conducted research on sustainability and helped implement sustainable initiatives for SPECO’s annual events:
This experience has been invaluable both personally and professionally. It has helped me become more adaptable and capable of navigating unfamiliar environments outside of my comfort zone. Academically, this internship has also strengthened my ability to undertake self-guided work, as much of what I contributed this summer was independently led.
The summer program was further enriched by integrating the WMU Essential Studies Program, which offered four diverse classes. Amelia Segroves, experiencing her first time abroad, remarked:
SiPN gave me countless unique opportunities I will cherish for the rest of my life. I had the privilege of learning from incredible faculty from Western Michigan University, who taught us about sustainability, the environment, the culture of Portugal, and the social issues the country faces.
The cultural trips that allowed students to connect with Portuguese heritage and landscapes deeply:
- National Museum of Resistance and Freedom, Peniche: In June, students visited this symbol of resistance, dedicated to preserving the memory of the struggle against the Portuguese fascist regime. The trip included a surfing session at Baleal Beach, renowned for its perfect waves and constant sea winds.
- Convento de Cristo and Almourol Castle, Tomar: Students took a magical journey back to the 12th and 13th centuries, complemented by a fun kayaking adventure on the river to Almourol Castle.
- Arrábida Natural Park: In July, the students visited this stunning area south of Lisbon. The trip showcased the alternating blue of the sea, white limestone cliffs, and dense green vegetation. A collaborative volunteer activity with Ocean Alive saw students and faculty collecting over 260 kg (573 lbs) of marine litter from the Sado River, sorting recyclables, plastic, garbage, and other harmful materials.
- Óbidos Medieval Fair: To conclude the summer trips, students participated in the medieval fair, donning full medieval costumes and engaging in various entertainment activities near the castle.
We look forward to welcoming new students next year and continuing our mission to provide exceptional educational and cultural experiences.
