Samoa (WSR) Program Links
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Samoa: Pacific Islands Studies
Program Excursions
Excursions are a chance for students to see both the scenic beauty of the Pacific as well as impacts and issues of westernization and development. Some of the themes and issues addressed during excursions are the economics of development; social change, environmental issues, and the impact of tourism.
Savaii
The week in Savaii begins with a drop-off weekend at Tanu Beach Fales. Students examine the natural history of Samoa and visit recent (1906-1911) lava flows, blow holes, and the largest stone mound in ancient Polynesia. They also climb craters, watch for flying foxes and swim in waterfalls.
American Samoa
This four day excursion in American Samoa allows students to see firsthand the impact of the US on a small island country. Students are hosted by students at American Samoa Community College and attend classes with them. The Samoa students also join the SIT students for a visit to the National Parks office and some sites on the island. An indigenous art workshop is another chance for the students to work closely with Samoan students.
Fiji
The weeklong stay in Fiji allows students to compare and contrast Pacific Islands. Students spend a couple of nights in a traditional village whose livelihood is eco-tourism. They also visit the main campus of the University of the South Pacific and hear Pacific Islanders talk about the political, ethnic, environmental, and developmental issues in Fiji, as well as the role of arts in Oceania. The visit to Suva, one of the cosmopolitan cities of the Pacific, pushes students to think critically about the impact of westernization and development.