Spend the semester on Maui and the Big Island exploring our natural world via the island ecosystem. On this semester, you'll engage with a deeper side of Hawai'i - it's no beach vacation. As a land of elemental forces coming together to create one of the most extraordinary and beautiful ecosystems on earth, Hawai'i hosts the most isolated population center on Earth, resulting in a distinct culture that remains vital and alive today.
For those who love the natural world, come be humbled by the grandeur of the ocean, the migrations of whales, the vibrance of the land, and the magic of the Aloha. For those who wish to have greater insight into Hawaiian culture, the complexities of U.S. colonization, and the ongoing dialogue about Hawaiian sovereignty, land rights, and social justice, come learn about important cultural and social issues that are happening within the United States.
- Delve into permaculture: Live and learn from experts on a regenerative farm alongside passionate conservationists
- Mountain to sea adventure: Trek and camp in the wilderness, then grab your surfboard for a lesson among the waves
- Listen and learn: Engage with the history and tradition of Hawaiian culture as your new neighbors share their expertise in food systems, star navigation, and the Hawaiian language
- Form your perspective: Together, we explore the effects of colonization and the social, political, and environmental activism aimed at restoring Hawaiian sovereignty
- The Carpe Diem experience: Participate in a mindfulness retreat designed to deepen your knowledge of self, reflect on your journey, and integrate your experiences
Price Details
Program tuition includes all food, accommodations, and scheduled program activities for the duration of the program. Domestic airfare, travel insurance, and spending money are extra. Airfare to/from Hawai'i is estimated at $700 - $1,000 and an inter-island flight is estimated at $60 - $100.
What's Included
Accommodation
Activities
Some Equipment
Meals
Park Fees
Transportation
What's Not Included
Airfare
Domestic Airfare
Some Equipment
Recently Updated
Going into my Hawai'i semester with Carpe Diem I wasn't sure what to expect- it was a new program and many of my past plans this year had already been cancelled. What came of the semester was the most transformative and beautiful two months I ever could have asked for.
Learning from Hawaiian natives about Hawaiian sovereignty, practicing earth stewardship alongside my group, and getting to know the beautiful island of Maui are pieces of my experience I never want to forget along with so so many more. I am incredibly thankful to my OE's for being the warmest, most supportive, and caring people ever. My group truly became an 'Ohana throughout our semester and I feel so lucky to have learned from each one of them and call them all friends now.
The Carpe Diem Hawai'i semester was very intentionally planned and thought out. If you are passionate about the environment, social justice, or the outdoors it would be a mistake not to consider this program! :)