Kansas State University

Office of International Programs study abroad advisor invited by Academic Programs International to visit Cuba

Submitted by Mary K. Pyle

Brent Holliday, study abroad advisor in the Office of International Programs, was invited by Academic Programs International to participate on an exploratory tour to Cuba earlier this month. Holliday visited Havana and Viñales to learn about summer and semester education abroad for K-State students interested in Spanish immersion opportunities.

Holliday applied and was selected out of a competitive pool of 50 applicants from other U.S. public and private universities.

"K-State and the Study Abroad Office were very fortunate that Brent was selected to participate in this familiarization trip of education initiatives in Cuba. What an unprecedented time for Brent to learn firsthand the service-learning opportunities, customized programs for future faculty-led programs and options for students who desire to spend a summer or semester in Cuba," said Joe Milostan, director of study abroad. 

"It's an exciting time for students to study at this unique study abroad location," Holliday said. "Long-term policy change is occurring now and our students have such a great opportunity to play a part in generating a great dialogue of open communication and engagement between our two countries."

Holliday met with a service-learning group, visited a sustainable farm and community development program, local schools, environmental schools and met with a variety of Cuban higher education representatives. He also gained valuable information from the other higher education advisors and faculty participants by exchanging ideas and shared experiences about education abroad initiatives for for students interested in studying Spanish.

Holliday said K-State just sent its first student on the program this summer, and students can arrange to study in Cuba as early as winter 2017.

For more information about the opportunities for faculty and student engagement with Cuban higher education, contact Holliday at bholliday@k-state.edu or 785-532-1698.