This study abroad opportunity will allow students to learn about the history and culture of Sri Lanka, its varied and rich culture and the strengths of the people who live there. The Meredith group, which is led by Assistant Professor of Social Work Gail Kenyon and includes nine students, departs July 5 and returns July 25.

Students will get a chance to have hands on experience in Sri Lanka’s public school system, working with children in grades 1-10 and their teachers. They will also learn more about how a small rural community rebuilds after the devastation of the 2004 tsunami.

Students spend seven days exploring, including the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, the Temple of Tooth in Kandy, and an evening safari into Yala National Park.

For six days, students will work at Pelena School in Weligama with Sri Lankan children who are learning English. Students will learn the concepts of intercultural communication, teaching ESL, and community building. Students will then spend two nights in Colombo before returning to North Carolina.