Where There Be Dragons: Indonesia Semester Recently Updated

Join one of our most adventurous and diverse programs in Asia. Experience living with a nomadic sea-faring community, explore traditional Javanese arts and crafts and gain insight into complex climate change issues in the world’s most diverse archipelago. For students interested in grassroots environmental initiatives, meaningful community engagement, and exploring Indonesia’s diverse cultural traditions.

Program Highlights & Outcomes

• Snorkel one of the world’s most pristine and endangered coral reefs in the Wakatobi National Park, and gain knowledge about complex marine conservation efforts
• Learn a traditional skill or trade alongside a talented Javanese mentor such as silversmithing, batik, gamelan, wayung kulit (shadow-puppets), street art, cooking, martial arts and more
• Meet with professionals, academics, community leaders, and laypeople to understand Indonesia’s colonial history, and current political state, and learn how it relates to larger geopolitical conversations
• Explore the various religions of Indonesia and how history and places can shape local beliefs such as Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and Christianity, as well as Animist and Shamanistic traditions
• Live with welcoming host families in rural and urban communities to gain a firsthand understanding of daily life
• Return home with a deep appreciation for Indonesia’s ecological and cultural diversity, and a range of perspectives and stories to share