Experiential Learning in Cuba

Arcadia in Cuba students participated in fascinating "in situ" history lectures on the foundational and colonial period of Cuba in Old Havana, and the 20th century development of the city and the country around the Vedado area. Among other places, the walking tour took students to Cuba’s Hotel Nacional, a building with a rich history that has hosted such luminaries as Ernest Hemingway, Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, Marlon Brando and more.

These students also attended a talk organized by the University of Havana covering the significance of reestablishing relations between the U.S. and Cuba. The talk was offered by UH Professor Dr. Elier Ramirez, who used his lecture to examine the historical attempts to increase relations between the two nations. He also highlighted key differences between past attempts and the current talks, encouraging high hopes for a positive outcome.

In the wake of increased efforts to normalize relations between the island nation and the United States, now more than ever is an incredibly exciting time to be in Havana. These students are grabbing every opportunity that comes their way to learn outside the classroom.