LASP International Study Trips

The Latin American Studies Program offers its students the opportunity to take part in international study trips, contingent on available funding.  In academic year 2010-2011, LASP sent students on two trips: Costa Rica and China.  Study trips for the 2011-2012 academic year included China and Brazil.  Participants are chosen by a competitive selection process.  A selection panel reviews applications and conducts applicant interviews to determine commitment and applicability of the study trip to students' interests and career goals.

Brazil: March 2012
Led by Professor Riordan Roett, twelve Latin American Studies students traveled to Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Brazil from March 16–24, 2012.  The purpose of the trip was for students to gain exposure to the new Brazil from varied perspectives.  The agenda focused on the dynamics behind Brazil’s impressive recent economic/financial development and its prospects for an increasing leadership role, both regionally in South America and on the global stage in the context of the BRICS.  In addition to meeting with high-level representatives from the private, public, academic and diplomatic communities, the delegation had the opportunity to meet and exchange views with SAIS program alumni in both destination cities.  For a video recap, click here.

Costa Rica: March 2011
Our third graduate study trip to Costa Rica sent twelve students to examine Costa Rican “exceptionalism” in the context of increased regional integration and trade.  Sponsored by the Zemurray Foundation and with support from CIPR/CIAPA, LASP students gained important exposure to key issues and players in the region through a program of meetings with representatives from the public, private and nonprofit communities.  The highlight of the trip was the students’ meeting with President Laura Chinchilla.  For a video recap, click here.

China: November 2011
During their visit in China, students met with representatives from the academic, diplomatic, public sector, private sector, and media communities, with the goal of gaining a deeper understanding of the various forces at work in the changing dynamics of Sino-Latin American relations. For a video recap, click here.

Canada Energy Trip: March 2012
With a focus on energy, the Center for Canadian Studies sponsored a trip to the oil sands in Alberta.  Students also met with various government officials and private sector groups in Calgary and Edmonton.  LASP students were eligible to apply. Students with Canadian studies and energy coursework received priority.  

Previous LASP Study Trips:
Costa Rica: 2008 | 2009
China: 2009 | 2010