Central Piedmont Class Experiences Unforgettable Study Abroad In Portugal
Over Fall Break, a World Civilizations II class from Central Piedmont Community College traveled to São Miguel Island in the Azores, Portugal, for an unforgettable study abroad experience.
What They Learned
Students explored the 225-year relationship between the United States and the Azores, delving into:
- The impact of U.S. industrialization, whaling, and trade on Azorean livelihoods
- How immigration and diplomacy shaped the economic development of the islands
- The Azores’ transformation into a hub for ecotourism and sustainable development
Connecting with Nature
The itinerary highlighted the Azoreans’ deep connection to nature and their commitment to sustainability. Students participated in activities like:
- Whale and dolphin watching
- Touring a milk factory, pineapple farm, and Europe’s only tea plantation
- Visiting volcanoes, black sand beaches, hot springs, and waterfall-filled mountainsSnorkeling in the crater of an ancient volcano
- Experiencing an historic farm day
Hands-On Cultural Experiences
The group also enjoyed:
- A pottery workshop
- A traditional Azorean cooking class
- Plenty of delicious meals featuring local flavors
Mindfulness Meets Global Learning
Fittingly, the many immersive nature experiences paired perfectly with the group’s introductory mindfulness practices. Later this semester, students will complete projects analyzing how their travels align with a Sustainable Development Goal through an historical lens.
This trip was a powerful blend of history, culture, and sustainability, giving students a global perspective that will last a lifetime.