Wang CenterStudent Opportunities

This course will focus on wildlife, their relationship to us and their conservation, putting into context the readings and literature in each of the specific places we visit.  Using texts such as Jane Goodall's In the Shadow of Man and Dale Peterson's Eating Apes, we can compare and contract these literary animals with our own experiences in the field observing them.  The goal of this course is to provide a powerful transformative experience through looking at the way in which readings and place, and readings and wildlife operate together.  The course will look at current conservation issues as they relate to environmental ethics emobidied in literature, and will transport us into a setting where we can experience the raw power of nature first-hand.

Program Highlights:

• Peak of the Wildbeest calving during the great annual ungulate migration in the southern Serengeti.
• Dense population of Lions plus Black Rhinos, Elephants, Zebra, Hippos, and more in legendary Ngorongoro Crater.
• Chimpanzees in their wild habitats, displaying natural interactions and behaviors.
• Famous Olduvai Gorge, the birthplace of man and origin of celebrated hominid fossils.
• Verdant Serengeti Plains dressed in springtime colors, providing a lunch backdrop for playful Lion and Cheetah cubs.

• Reading Skills - improve abilities to read nonfiction narrative, fiction narrative, poetry -- demonstrating growth in proficiency.
• Writing Skills - improve abilities to write personal and formal prose.
• Research and Critical Thinking - improve critical thinking skills through interviews and library research, and analysis of relationships between literature and experience.
• Observational and Field Skills - develop abilities to observe carefully, pay attention, and take notes.

Course Credit: 

ENGL 234 (4 credits).  Department Credit, LT GUR/Gen Ed.

Program Fee:

$8,850.  Includes airfare, visa, lodging, most meals, program-related transportation, and supplemental study abroad insurance.  PLU reserves the right to add a surcharge in response to unanticipated price increase.

The estimated additional costs below are intended to assist students and parents in budgeting for those additional living and discretionary expenses not include in the program fee.  Actual expenses may vary according to student interests, individual needs, and spending habits:

• Passport (new) = $110 / Passport (renewal) = $135
• Pre-travel Evaluation at the PLU Health Center = $45 *All students are required to visit either the PLU Health Center or a personal health care provider to achieve the proper medical clearance. Be aware that other medical providers may charge additional fees that may result in a higher cost then the PLU Health Center.
• Immunizations = $0 to several hundred dollars **Vaccination needs vary on destination and individual medical history and may be costly.
• Airline baggage fees = approximately $25 for each checked bag
• Books, supplies, course materials = varies
• Cost of meals not included in the program fee = varies
• Cell phone and usage fees = varies
• Personal expenses = approximately $600. Check with your faculty leader for an accurate estimate for your destination.

Application Deadline:

April 13, 2012.  A non-refundable deposit of $50 is required with the application.   A $250 non-refundable payment to confirm participation in the course is due within 10 days of notification of acceptance.  Maximum 18 students.