Content Warning: This story makes reference to genocide, incarceration and sexual violence. During their time at SFS, students have the opportunity to engage with classmates from dozens of countries, hear from world leaders and travel abroad to expand their learning in practical, direct contexts.
After two years of countless pandemic-related cancellations and postponements, SFS global experiences have returned in full force this summer. While summer break usually marks the start of sunny vacations and beach getaways, nine SFS students instead donned their parkas and headed for the Arctic. Like all C-Labs, learning began in the classroom, where students in the spring semester course each undertook a project on a climate change-affected condition in the Arctic. Once in Alaska, however, students were able to compare their findings to the realities of a changing Arctic environment.
In Fairbanks, students visited the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and sat in on presentations about Alaskan climate and culture at the University of Alaska. Yet, unique encounters like talking with Alaskans about community-based mitigation efforts β and even spotting a polar bear β transformed and enriched student perspectives on climate change.
During their time in Nairobi, students go on site visits and outdoor adventures, in addition to learning about international and business development. While limited media representation often contributes to a Western perception of Africa as underdeveloped, exploring the city and engaging with locals quickly disrupts these preconceived notions.
Yet, these interactions also show students how perceptions can go both ways. Through conversations with business owners, manufacturers, NGOs, politicians and local stakeholders, students were immersed in the politics, culture and technology of Kenyan business development. Past student participants also testify to the value of their experiential learning trip in Kenya.
