Office of Student Travel
A World of Options
Florida Southern offers a range of study abroad experiences—just choose the one that’s right for you! Whether you go for a few weeks, a summer or a semester, you’ll learn in ways you never thought possible. You may opt for a program sponsored by Florida Southern or pursue an adventure through one of our travel partners. To get started, contact FSC’s Office of Student Travel!
Life Skills
Travel study experiences are a fantastic way to see the world, practice language skills, and connect with others from around the globe — all while earning academic credit! Study abroad will teach you about the world, boost your confidence, make you more self-aware and independent, stretch your comfort zone, and connect you with others who are like you … and those who are not. You’ll use these valuable skills throughout your life!
Asia
Imperial Capitals of Japan
Trains, Temples, and Treats
Japan
May 4 - May 16
Asia -
Semester: May 2025
1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Jim Beck, jbeck@flsouthern.edu
This trip will visit the Japanese cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and a Japanese national park area called Hakone. We will tour Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, as well as contemporary architectural sites, and spend a night at a traditional Japanese "Ryokan" - a Japanese hotel with natural spring baths. We will also seek out other areas of interest to the group such as the Bamboo forrest, a monkey habitat outside of Kyoto, and a contemporary immersive technology exhibit. Additionally, we will explore the shopping district of Tokyo, including Shibuya and Akihabara, for Gaming, Manga, Anime and fashion enthusiasts, as well the Tokyo "Sky Tree" - one of the tallest towers in the world. We will travel between cities by high-speed train - the "Shinkansen" and within cities experiencing the local subway, bus and train systems that are ubiquitous to daily life in Japan – as well as a fair amount of walking – so bring comfy shoes! Along the way we will experience a traditional Izakaya meal in Tokyo, as well as a sampling of foods on a food tour in Osaka - Japan’s “kitchen,” with a great variety of traditional “street” foods, as well as independently exploring other fun food options throughout our trip. We will end our trip, returning to Tokyo, with a day at the newest Japanese version of Disney parks – “Disney Sea” to culminate our last full day in Japan.
This trip will involve a large amount of walking, as well as non-American/European foods.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $7,310
Regular Trip Cost: $9,310
Exploring Microfinance in Nepal: FinTech, Financial Inclusion, and Entrepreneurship
Nepal
May 5 - May 20
Asia - Business
Semester: May 2025
FSC 1997 - 2 Credit Hours
Trip Leader: Dr. Shankar Ghimire, sghimire@flsouthern.edu
This short-term travel study program focuses on business and economic issues in developing countries, particularly Nepal. This course offers a transformative two-week "Junior Journey", with the travel study component focused on the hands-on approach of collecting and analyzing survey data and studying real-life problems. The primary focus is on microfinance, but it goes beyond exploring the country's FinTech ecosystem and studying how microfinance institutions promote financial inclusion and entrepreneurship in rural areas. It is a gateway to understanding the intricate economic dynamics of developing countries and the remarkable potential for financial inclusion through FinTech.
Nepal is a multicultural and multiethnic country because it became a country by occupying several small kingdoms in the 18th century. Nepal is diverse in every socio-economic and institutional aspect: culture, geography, people, languages, and religion. There are 125 ethnic groups and 123 languages spoken in Nepal who are scattered from the southern low plains to the northern high Himalayan range that hosts Mount Everest. By participating in this course, students will be able to learn about business and economic issues in Nepal, share their experiences with the FSC community, and help with the internationalization efforts of the College.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $1,656
Regular Trip Cost: $3,656
Caribbean/South America
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Mar 1 - Mar 9
Latin America -
Semester: Spring 2025
1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Bernardo Blanco, bblanco@flsouthern.edu
Participants on this trip will explore the organization of communities as well as the school system in Costa Rican rural areas. Students will have the opportunity to gather cross-cultural information as well as to realize what it is like to teach in contexts that are foreign or could be foreign to their experience. We will visit rural area schools in the Province of Guanacaste and Puntarenas, both in the Pacific Northwest. We will also visit eco-tourism areas (national parks, Arenal Volcano, and the capital city of San Jose.) and coffee plantations to see what is done and identify opportunities to engage the culture. Our pre-professional teachers will immerse in local classrooms to assist teachers and staff—this will require the implementation of strategies to engage elementary, middle, and high school students. Students will also perform community work in the area. In the case of students from other majors, there will also be activities dedicated to their field of study—nursing school, business, biology, etc.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $996
Regular Trip Cost: $2,996
Santiago, Chile
Chile
Mar 1 - Mar 9
Latin America -
Semester: Spring 2025
FSC 1997 - 1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Chris Brandon, cbrandon@flsouthern.edu
This trip will take students to Santiago, Chile, the capital of Chile and one of South America’s largest and most modernized cities. Using Santiago as our base, we will take several daytrips to visit the South Pacific coastal regions and Andes Mountain range. We will visit coastal towns like the historic port city of Valparaiso which has become a thriving arts scene. We will also get a chance to visit a natural coastal preserve that is home to Chile’s Humboldt penguins and other charismatic marine fauna. We will also experience breathtaking views of the Andes Mountain range while traveling on horseback, and we will end the evening with a traditional Chilean BBQ while we stargaze at the Southern hemisphere. Students will get an immersive experience where they will learn about the history, culture, and environment of Chile and its capital city.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $2,808
Regular Trip Cost: $4,808
Dominica: Healthcare Experiences in the Tropics
Dominica
May 4 - May 13
Latin America - DPT
Semester: May 2025
FSC 1997 - 1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Christine Morgan, cmorgan@flsouthern.edu
Ready to take your healthcare skills global? Join us for an unforgettable 10-day adventure in Dominica from May 4-13, 2025! This immersive Junior Journey experience combines hands-on clinical practice with cultural exploration on the beautiful "Nature Island of the Caribbean." You'll work with local healthcare providers, assist in clinical settings like the Dominica Infirmary and the Alpha Center, and even compare traditional island medicine with Western practices. Beyond healthcare, you'll hike tropical rainforests, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and experience the vibrant culture of Dominica, from whale watching to exploring waterfalls.
This trip offers the perfect blend of professional development and cultural immersion. It's an incredible opportunity to enhance your skills, expand your worldview, and make a lasting impact on a diverse population. Plus, you'll build lasting friendships and gain valuable experience that will set you apart in graduate school applications. Don’t miss out on this unique chance to combine travel and healthcare in one of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking environments!
Prerequisite: Permission of the trip director, Intention to apply to a graduate healthcare program
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $2,082
Regular Trip Cost: $4,082
Roatan, Honduras
Honduras
May 4 - May 16
Latin America -
Semester: May 2025
1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Macrander, jmacrander@flsouthern.edu
A field course studying the geology, history, vegetation, and ecology of a tropical region.
This course offers students an immersive and hands-on opportunity to explore and study the marine biodiversity of Roatán, Honduras, while actively participating in marine research projects. Through a combination of field experiences, classroom lectures, and research, students will engage deeply with the island's rich marine ecosystems, learning firsthand about conservation efforts and conducting meaningful scientific research as part of a collaborative international team. This course is designed for students interested in participating in marine biology research. Although it is geared toward biology students, students across all disciplines are encouraged to participate if they are DIVE-certified and would like to join an ongoing research collaborative team.
Students participating in this Junior Journey Experience will engage in original research projects designed to develop their skills in marine ecology, conservation, and species identification. Projects will be conducted at the Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences (RIMS) in Anthony’s Key Resort, a world-class facility with a strong focus on education and research. Research projects will cover a variety of marine and coastal ecosystems, with the potential to include: Coral Abundance and Distribution, Substrate Cover Monitoring, Coral Health, Fish Surveys, Taxonomy and Dolphin Research.
In addition to research, students will explore Roatán’s unique marine environments through a variety of field experiences. The island offers a diverse range of diving sites, from steep walls to canyons and coral groves, each providing different seascapes for study. The island’s fringing and barrier reefs, part of the second largest reef system in the world, will serve as our primary research and exploration area. Several dive boats will be available throughout the course, allowing students to visit different reef locations and spend ample time in the marine environment.
RIMS provides a unique setting with its Education Center, museum, and lab facilities. In addition to field research, students will attend lectures that delve into Roatán’s tropical marine ecosystems and the conservation efforts surrounding them. Topics will include reef ecology, fish and invertebrate biology, and the geology and ethnology of the Bay Islands. These lectures will enrich students' research by providing a deeper understanding of the island's natural and cultural resources.
Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $2,795
Regular Trip Cost: $4,795
Europe
Ireland: A Cultural & Historical Visit to the Emerald Isle
Ireland
Mar 1 - Mar 8
Europe -
Semester: Spring 2025
FSC 1997 - 1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Alex Ortiz, aortiz@flsouthern.edu
Discover Ireland: The Emerald Isle Awaits!
Imagine immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Ireland! Florida Southern College is offering an incredible opportunity for students to embark on a week-long adventure from March 1-8, 2025. This unique trip will take you through the scenic landscapes of Ireland, where you'll explore historic sites and experience the evolution of Irish culture firsthand.
Not only will you gain a deeper understanding of Ireland's complex narratives, but you'll also have the chance to compare and contrast these experiences with your own life back home. The trip includes airfare, accommodations, meals, and transportation within Ireland.
Through engaging activities, daily reflection essays, and group discussions, you'll enhance your learning while creating lasting memories with fellow students. Don’t miss this chance to broaden your horizons, make new friends, and enrich your educational journey.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $1,985
Regular Trip Cost: $3,985
Central Europe
Central Europe
Mar 1 - Mar 9
Europe - Multi-Disciplined
Semester: Spring 2025
1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Allen, wallen@flsouthern.edu
Travel through Central Europe (Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest). This trip will expose student travelers to the rich and diverse history of Central Europe by visiting the famous Astronomical Clock, Prague Castle, Cesky Krumlov Castle, and the Melk. Student Travelers will explore the arts and culture of Central Europe.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $1,029
Regular Trip Cost: $3,029
Western Türkiye
Turkey
May 4 - May 15
Europe -
Semester: Summer 2025
FSC 1997 - 1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Mel Kullu, mkullu@flsouthern.edu
This course is designed as a junior journey trip to familiarize the students with Türkiye’s history, nature, culture, and people. Türkiye, as the home of many civilizations, is located like a bridge between European and Asian continents and presents a unique setting to visit due to its remarkable historical sites, natural wonders, and diverse cultural heritage. Students will visit several ancient ruins, architectural marvels, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. Through their daily interactions, observations, and discussions, students will have an engaging learning experience in a highly diverse country, and broaden their global self-awareness about the world's social, cultural, natural, and economic diversity. They will learn about old empires (Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, Ottoman), Anatolian states and cultures, and the modern Republic of Türkiye.
The trip will start from Lakeland, followed by a direct flight from Miami to Istanbul, one of the world's oldest cities and the capital of several empires. Some major sites will be visited, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Yerebatan Cistern, Topkapi and Dolmabahçe Palaces, Archaeological and Military Museums, and two Dinner Cruises on the Bosphorus with scenic views of many other architectural marvels both on European and Asian continents.
Following a direct flight to Izmir on the Aegean coast, some western Türkiye sites will be visited such as a well-preserved historical Ottoman village Sirince, the ancient cities of Priene and Milet (home of Thales), the grand Temple of Apollo in Didim, a Roman metropolis Ephesus, the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, the House of the Virgin Mary, the ancient city Aphrodisias (dedicated to Aphrodite), Pamukkale travertine terraces, the ancient city of Hierapolis, the natural wonders Saklikent Gorge/Canyon and Oludeniz (Blue Lagoon) with a day cruise along the stunning Turquoise Coast visiting the Butterfly Valley, Lycian Rock tombs, scenic travel through the Gokova region, a famous vibrant town Bodrum, the Underwater Archaeology Museum in a real castle, and Blue Voyage cruise from Bodrum sailing through the Aegean Sea.
All-inclusive trip: all transportation (flights, cruises, buses), all accommodation (4-5 star hotels), all excursions and entry fees, and all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner -except some lunches). Open to all majors and explorers!"
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $4,511
Regular Trip Cost: $6,511
Croatian Mosaic: Heritage and Harmony
Croatia
May 4 - May 16
Mediterranean -
Semester: May 2025
1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Mijana Lockard, mlockard2@flsouthern.edu
This course provides an immersive experience that will take students on a captivating, locally designed, and led journey through Croatia's Adriatic Coast's rich history, vibrant traditions, and musical treasures. Participants will dive into the heart of Croatian traditions, savor local cuisine, participate in folk traditions, and connect with communities to understand the living heritage of this diverse country. By engaging with local traditions, students will gain insights into the values, customs, and rituals passed down through generations.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $3,191
Regular Trip Cost: $5,191
Republic of Latvia
Latvia
May 4 - May 18
Europe - History
Semester: May 2025
HIS 1998 - 1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Richards Plavnieks, rplavnieks@flsouthern.edu
This is a course about history and culture, choosing as its focus the tiny Baltic Republic of Latvia. While physically proximate to the very sites where the history they will learn about took place, students will gradually come to appreciate the whole of the country’s recorded past, from the days of the Baltic German knights who conquered the territory in the 1200s and Christianized this final bastion of paganism in Europe; through the periods of Polish-Lithuanian, Swedish, and Russian imperial control; to the first independence period in the 1920s and 1930s; through the Second World War and the Holocaust, 1939-1945; to the days of the USSR and the Cold War; to the struggle for renewed independence, which finally succeeded in 1991; all the way up to the present era, beginning in 2004, with Latvia’s membership in both the European Union and NATO. Our all-encompassing historical study of the country will be added to the students’ everyday interactions in Latvia and their long-term, one-on-one communications with a peer from the University of Latvia. Combining these elements, each student will form their own complete view of this very different country. If the course succeeds, it will make each participating student a more informed and worldly member of American society and global civilization.
Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $1,963
Regular Trip Cost: $3,963
Germany: Culture and Remembrance
Germany
May 6 - May 22
Europe - Holocaust Studies and German History
Semester: May 2025
2 Credit Hours
Trip Leader: Dr. R. Bruce Anderson, randerson2@flsouthern.edu
This May Jr. Journey to Germany – now in its 15th Journey – covers several critical areas of German history and focuses on the juxtaposition of Holocaust studies and German art, culture and architecture. We begin at Ravensbrück Memorial, a Holocaust site, for archival work, field study, and often archaeology, guided by Dr. Anderson and Dr. Heyl, a German government Holocaust specialist. We then travel to Erfürt (a university town with all that that means) and Weimar, the center of German culture, where we’ll see Cathedrals from 900AD, castles, palaces and museums. Weimar was home to Bach, Schiller, Goëthe, Liszt, Pushkin, and many others, and is also home to the Bauhaus school – the architectural leader of the 20th century.
After the field experience of Ravensbrück, each day is structured with multiple planned group adventures, but always offers a host of alternative options for people who want to explore on their own (with a trip partner, of course) and rejoin us later in the day. We end the trip with a full day of exploration and shopping in Berlin.
The trip is open to every major or area of interest, no German language skills are required. In-country, we travel exclusively by rail and tram. The trip is totally all-inclusive.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $1,575
Regular Trip Cost: $3,575
Alicante, Spain
Spain
May 6 - Jun 5
Europe - Multi-disciplined
Semester: May 2025
6 Credit Hours
Trip Leader: Dr. Jose Garcia, jgarcia@flsouthern.edu
Boost your Spanish in the Mediterranean Spain.
This cultural immersion program will explore various aspects of the Spanish history and culture. It will focus on the rich Christian, Islamic and Judaic influences that allowed these religions and cultures to coexist and flourish in the Iberian Peninsula for hundreds of years. Visit the Old Santa Cruz neighborhood in Alicante, Guadalest mountains and the Algar waterfalls, the City of Elche, the Santa Barbara Castle, some of the nicest ART Museums in town, the fisherman’s town Villa Joiosa and the amazing Mediterranean white town Altea. We will also visit Murcia and a weekend trip to Granada and Sevilla.
Students will live with Spanish families in beautiful Alicante while they experience the culture and study the Spanish language.
Students will work on the development of the four basic language skills; speaking, listening, reading and writing. Classes will focus on the practical application of language in day-to-day situations, and cultural awareness. The courses offered range from beginning Spanish language, to conversation, literature and Spanish culture and civilization.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $3,752
Regular Trip Cost: $5,752
7-Day Cruise to Spain, France, and Italy
Spain, France, Italy
May 10 - May 18
Europe -
Semester: May 2025
FSC 1997 - 1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Christy Skelly, cskelly@flsouthern.edu
This course offers a unique opportunity for students to explore the vibrant cultures and rich histories of Spain, France and Italy. This trip runs from May 10th-18th, 2025. This amazing opportunity includes a 7-day cruise in the Western Mediterranean. Throughout the trip, students will be sailing on the Royal Caribbean’s ship ALLURE OF THE SEAS. Five awesome excursions are included in this package. Transportation to Miami airport will be provided. We will fly to Barcelona Spain to embark on the ship. The amazing places that we will visit includes Palma De Malorca Spain, Provence France, Florence/Pisa Italy, Rome Italy, and Naples/Capri Italy. The sites that we visit will be spectacular. Key sites that we will visit include Barcelona, the Island of Palma De Mallorca Spain, Provence France, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Roman Colosseum, Vatican City, Pompaii, and many more. This is an international trip and so passports are required. There will be physical activity during excursions which may include walking up to 3 miles. Note: housing on campus for the week between graduation and departure is available (campus dining not available).
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $3,196
Regular Trip Cost: $5,196
Explore Europe by Sea
Plus Paris and London
Europe
May 10 - May 19
Europe -
Semester: Summer 2025
FSC 1997 - 1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Jennifer Dapko, jdapko@flsouthern.edu
This immersive experience is designed for students seeking to explore the rich history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine of Europe including Portugal, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. Get ready to experience cultural immersion and culinary delights. Throughout your journey, you'll be accompanied by experienced guides who will share fascinating insights into the history and culture of each destination. Savor the diverse flavors of Europe with guided food tours and tastings, showcasing local specialties and culinary traditions.
Your adventure starts with a flight from Lakeland to Lisbon, Portugal. From there, we board a cruise ship and embark on a journey through some of Europe's most iconic cities where we will discover Europe’s treasures including:
- Lisbon - Immerse yourself in the charming streets of Lisbon, exploring historic landmarks and indulging in local delicacies.
- La Coruña, Spain - Experience the vibrant culture of La Coruña, sampling fresh seafood and exploring the city's rich heritage.
- Bilbao, Spain - Discover the rich history of the city and savor the Basque region's unique cuisine.
- Le Havre (Bordeaux) and Paris, France: We’ll pass through Le Havre (Bordeaux) as we travel to Paris where we will visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and more.
- Dover and London, England: Our cruising journey ends in Dover where we will then travel to explore the historic city of London, from Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London, and experience the vibrant British culture.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $3,269
Regular Trip Cost: $5,269
Mediterranean
Croatian Mosaic: Heritage and Harmony
Croatia
May 4 - May 16
Mediterranean -
Semester: May 2025
1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Mijana Lockard, mlockard2@flsouthern.edu
This course provides an immersive experience that will take students on a captivating, locally designed, and led journey through Croatia's Adriatic Coast's rich history, vibrant traditions, and musical treasures. Participants will dive into the heart of Croatian traditions, savor local cuisine, participate in folk traditions, and connect with communities to understand the living heritage of this diverse country. By engaging with local traditions, students will gain insights into the values, customs, and rituals passed down through generations.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $3,191
Regular Trip Cost: $5,191
Ischia, Italy
Italy
May 6 - May 20
Mediterranean -
Semester: Summer 2025
EXS 2200 - 4 Credit Hours
Trip Leader: Dr. Sara Terrell, sterrell@flsouthern.edu
Students will study, travel to, and participate in the traditional wellness practices of Ischia, Italy, in conjunction with the Italy Abroad Programs (IAP). The program has curated an itinerary that includes housing, meals, and immersive experiences. Students will explore the site and visit historic landmarks; workshops on the local culture and cuisine will offer hands-on learning opportunities. They will partake in wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, and hiking, and experience the healing potential of Ischia's thermal pools. This course will provide students with opportunities and strategies to integrate Ischia's traditional and holistic wellness principles into their current lifestyle, focusing on how food, exercise, and well-being are essential for a happy, healthy life. (Students can also choose to use this as a WRIGHT foundations general education course to meet the SLO of Resilience).
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $4,291
Regular Trip Cost: $6,291
Alicante, Spain
Spain
May 6 - Jun 5
Europe - Multi-disciplined
Semester: May 2025
6 Credit Hours
Trip Leader: Dr. Jose Garcia, jgarcia@flsouthern.edu
Boost your Spanish in the Mediterranean Spain.
This cultural immersion program will explore various aspects of the Spanish history and culture. It will focus on the rich Christian, Islamic and Judaic influences that allowed these religions and cultures to coexist and flourish in the Iberian Peninsula for hundreds of years. Visit the Old Santa Cruz neighborhood in Alicante, Guadalest mountains and the Algar waterfalls, the City of Elche, the Santa Barbara Castle, some of the nicest ART Museums in town, the fisherman’s town Villa Joiosa and the amazing Mediterranean white town Altea. We will also visit Murcia and a weekend trip to Granada and Sevilla.
Students will live with Spanish families in beautiful Alicante while they experience the culture and study the Spanish language.
Students will work on the development of the four basic language skills; speaking, listening, reading and writing. Classes will focus on the practical application of language in day-to-day situations, and cultural awareness. The courses offered range from beginning Spanish language, to conversation, literature and Spanish culture and civilization.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $3,752
Regular Trip Cost: $5,752
North America
An Examination of Culture and Society in Canada
Canada
Mar 1 - Mar 8
US-East - Criminology/Sociology
Semester: Spring 2025
CRM/SOC 2997 - 1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Lisa Carter, lcarter@flsouthern.edu
This trip will engage students with an in-person introduction to Canadian culture and society. Students will participate in cultural excursions through, museums visits, stops at historical sites, food tours, and natural landmarks. Highlights of this trip will include a day trip to Niagara Falls, a visit to Notre-Dame Basilica, and an opportunity to learn about plants and animals at the Montréal Biodome. City stops in Toronto, Montréal, and Quebec City will allow time for students to explore with friends and discover new interests.
“Une aventure que vous ne voulez pas manquer!!!” (An adventure you do not want to miss!)
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $2,587
Regular Trip Cost: $4,587
Anchorage, Alaska STEM
Alaska
May 6 - May 13
US-West -
Semester: May 2025
1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Judy Senzamici, jsenzamici@flsouthern.edu
Participants in this Junior Journey will have hands-on learning experiences in biodiverse ecosystems, where they can address conservation and environmental ethical issues while experiencing the cultural and historical significance of Alaska. The trip is (1 Credit Hour) and open to all majors.
Fly into Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about Alaska’s Indigenous People and Cultures and the Alaska Aviation Museum to hear from an Alaskan Bush Pilot and explore the hangars of planes and exhibits. Learn about flying in Alaska and how Alaskans rely on this industry. Visit Bird TLC to learn about injured and orphaned Wild Birds of Alaska, sent to this small facility. Birds from all over the state come to this place. You will be able to talk to a rehab or trainer who works with some of the birds on site. You may even be able to meet one up close. Travel on a marine vessel for a spring Wildlife Cruise in Resurrection Bay searching for whales, seals, and more, while your guide shares information about the area. Enjoy a visit to the Alaska Sea Life Center for an up-close view of some of Alaska’s marine life. Hike the trail to view the Exit Glacier (based on snow and road conditions), for a unique perspective on how glaciers impact the landscape. travel north to Wasilla. Explore the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see some of Alaska’s wildlife up-close, including bears, moose, caribou, and more. Visit a local sled dog kennel to learn about Alaska’s “Last Great Race”, how to care for and train sled dogs. Travel toTalkeetna, a quaint town used as a basecamp for mountaineers to prepare to climb Denali. Explore this historical town including a visit to the Talkeetna Museum and visit the Talkeetna Ranger Station. Enjoy a visit to the Denali Discovery Center and hear from a local Alaskan as you are welcomed to Denali. Journey into Denali National Park for a *wildlife tour- Denali Natural History Tour- around 4 hours- distance is based on weather and road conditions. Your driver/guide will talk about the importance of preserving this special area and about some of the unique animals and plants in the park. There is time to visit the Denali Visitor Center. Wind up the experience with a tour through Anchorage.
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $3,977
Regular Trip Cost: $5,977
Alaskan Cruise
and Seattle Highlights
Seattle and Alaska
May 10 - May 19
US-West -
Semester: May 2025
1 Credit Hour
Trip Leader: Dr. Jonathan Cazalas, jcazalas@flsouthern.edu
Embark on an unforgettable Alaskan adventure that combines the best of land and sea! Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Seattle, where you’ll explore iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and the Museum of Pop Culture, soaking in the cultural and natural highlights of the Pacific Northwest. Then, set sail aboard the magnificent Norwegian Encore, a floating paradise offering luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and panoramic observation decks that ensure you’ll never miss a moment of the awe-inspiring scenery.
As you cruise through the pristine waters of the Inside Passage, prepare to be captivated by Alaska’s untamed beauty. Watch in awe as towering glaciers calve into the sea, listen to the thunderous sound of ice breaking away, and witness eagles soaring above as you sail past majestic fjords and rugged coastlines. Each port of call offers a unique glimpse into Alaska’s rich history and culture, from the gold rush era of Skagway to the intricate totem poles of Ketchikan. In Glacier Bay National Park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, where ice-blue glaciers meet lush forests in a dramatic display of nature’s grandeur.
Beyond the stunning views, this journey offers thrilling opportunities to get up close with Alaska’s wonders. Whether you're hiking ancient trails, floating down scenic rivers, or savoring freshly prepared local salmon, each excursion will immerse you deeper into the Alaskan experience. To top it all off, your voyage concludes with a stop in the picturesque city of Victoria, British Columbia, adding an international flair to your adventure. Don’t miss this chance to experience the majestic beauty of Alaska while creating memories that will last a lifetime!
Students must receive permission of instructor prior to registering for this trip.
Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor
Deposit Amount: $350
Junior Journey Trip Cost: $2,075
Regular Trip Cost: $4,075
What’s Covered?
When considering Junior Journey options, it’s helpful to compare fees and consider what is included in the total price. For most study abroad trips, the cost typically includes:
- Full-service transportation, door to door from Florida Southern to your final destination and back again.
- All lodging, including on-campus housing prior to trip and throughout your travels.
- Most meals, with a few exceptions. Faculty trip directors share detailed itineraries so you’ll know which meals might not be covered.
- If your trip allows free time for outside excursions, these are at your own expense.
Getting Started!
Maybe you’re unsure of where you’d like to go? Maybe you’ve always dreamed of visiting a certain place in the world and already have a program in mind? Either way, our Office of Student Travel is your best place to start. Our staff experts have all the information you need to make your study abroad experience a reality. Now would also be a great time to prepare for a study abroad, make sure you have a passport that is valid six months beyond the return date of the trip you are planning to travel on, visit the website below to apply for a new passport or to renew your passport.
What's Required?
To participate in a student travel program at Florida Southern, you must have:
- A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
- A clear business office and clear record of Student Accountability
- Register on-line when the FSC Portal opens to complete a Travel application.
- Submit valid documents, pay deposit once instructed by Office of Student Travel
How to Register
Junior Journey trip registration is accomplished through the travel tab on the student portal, where you will choose which study abroad trip you wish to register for. Check out our Sign-Up Guide for more information about the registration process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Junior Journey?
Junior Journey is a program offered through the Office of Student Travel as a study abroad experience. This program offers students an opportunity for intellectual and cultural growth while they earn academic credit. These trips, which faculty members and other qualified staff lead, are typically one to three weeks long, giving students a chance to see how what they are learning in the classroom can be applied in different settings.
What are the eligibility requirements to participate in a Junior Journey?
To participate in the Junior Journey program, you must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher, a clear business office and Student Accountability record, a completed Travel application, valid document submissions, and a deposit once instructed by the Office of Student Travel. Students must meet these requirements BOTH prior to signing up for the trip AND immediately before the trip's departure.
Students can participate in any Junior Journey program. However, eligible, full time undergraduate students can take advantage of the Junior Journey program one-time at a reduced cost, allowing them to enrich their academic experience through travel and cultural immersion. To qualify for the reduced cost travel program, students must have completed four semesters before the departure date if they entered FSC as a freshman (three semesters before the departure date for transfer students) and be in good academic, financial, and social standing. Students must use their Junior Journey eligibility before they graduate.
Junior Journey or Study Abroad travel must be completed before graduation.
Where can I find travel forms and a list of what I need to complete for travel?
All student travel forms can be found on the Travel tab on the Student Portal. The Student Travel Checklist lists everything you will need to submit in order to travel.
What trips are offered?
Students will have the opportunity to learn about the following semester's trips at the Student Travel Showcase held each semester. Some examples of past trips include Chile, Costa Rica, Eastern Europe, Japan, Latvia, Austria, Eastern Europe, and Mediterranean Cruise. Trips may vary depending on the semester and availability.
Once the showcase has passed, trips will be updated on the Office of Student Travel page and under the Travel tab on the Student Portal.
Where can I find the online registration?
Once open, registration can be found on the portal using student login credentials. From there, you may choose a trip and submit your application. Be sure to have valid documents ready to submit.
Applications are open for the following semester; students cannot apply for trips during the same semester as said trip. If you are still deciding which trip to choose, the Office of Student Travel's staff experts have all the information you need to find your perfect trip.
Can you do more than one Junior Journey?
Once you have completed a Junior Journey, you are welcome to attend another. However, you will be required to pay the entire trip cost.
When do Junior Journeys happen?
Students are able to take their trip in the Fall semester, Spring semester, and in May. However, it is important to note some trips are only offered during specific semesters.
What is covered on a Junior Journey?
For most trips, the cost will include full-service transportation, housing, and most meals. Faculty trip directors share detailed itineraries so you'll know which meals might not be covered. If your trip allows for personal excursions and purchases, these are at your student's own expense.
How much does it cost?
The price for a Junior Journey will depend on the trip's destination and itinerary. You can find the cost of trips on the FSC website under the Office of Student Travel.
Do you need a passport?
Yes, you will need a passport if you are planning to travel outside of the U.S. Please be sure your passport is valid six months beyond the return date of your trip to avoid being denied entry into the country. If you have a passport from a country other than the U.S., you must notify the Office of Student Travel when you apply for a trip as you may need to apply for a visa to travel to certain destinations.
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