This summer, Oakland University students have the unique opportunity to study the European immigration crisis in Italy. However, the opportunity to sign up for the program ends on March 4. Cathy Shafran, the journalism abroad program director, invites students with interest in the fields of political science, international relations, social sciences, communication, journalism, PR, video production or social media reporting to apply for the program.
The summer course runs from June 29 to July 17.
The program will allow students an immersive educational experience. Students will spend four weeks learning information about the social and political issues facing European nations through a hybrid learning format.
“The world is now experiencing the largest human migration in its history,” Shafran said. “And it has become clear that every country in the world is struggling to establish policies to deal with the influx of these populations, whether it be on the US southern border, or borders across Europe.”
Following the initial four weeks of hybrid learning, the class will travel to Italy for three weeks. While abroad, students will also interview NGO representatives and those in Italian communities impacted by the influx of these migrants.
“This program includes interviews with Italian political leaders who have created the policies, as well as personal interactions with fleeing migrants who have been impacted by the treacherous journey across the Mediterranean,” Shafran said. “We will also spend time on search and rescue ships that are responding to the humanitarian needs of tens of thousands of migrants, many left to drown at sea by two countries that do not want them.”
During their time abroad, students will be housed in 3 different locations: Rome, Lampedusa Island and Sicily. During the 3 weeks abroad, there will be 2-3 days for independent personal travel in the region. There will also be 2-3 group excursions to locations of interest in Rome and Sicily.
After the trip, the class will return to Michigan to complete a final week of hybrid learning.
Those interested in learning more about the program can find more information on Lost at Sea: Reporting on Italy’s Immigration Crisis, located on Oakland University’s International Education website. For more information, students may contact Shafran by email, at [email protected].
