“We see no virtue in perpetual antagonism between the United States and Cuba.”
— Henry Kissinger
“There really is no way to bridge the gap between our positions.”
— Robert Pastor
“I believe in the upward, forward trajectory of humankind. But I do not believe that it is a straight and steady line.”
— President Barack Obama
“As we age, we learn that there is no single universal truth or logic; every culture cherishes its own narrative.”
— Max Hastings

For Abroadia the four quotes listed above serve as reference points regarding various viewpoints as they pertain to Cuba and its relation to the United States. Henry Kissinger, US secretary of state from 1973-1977, oscillated between taking a hard line against Cuba and engaging with that country. His quote comes from a 1975 speech he delivered in Houston. Robert Pastor was staff director at the Commission on U.S.-Latin American Relations from 1975-1977 and in his quote expresses his frustration with trying to establish rapprochement with Cuba. Former President Barack Obama’s statement is a more broad assessment of what we all aspire to and the historian Max Hastings observes what may be the most difficult obstacle to overcome when two countries try to work with each other.

Whether you will study in Cuba on a semester program or experience it through a short-term faculty led encounter, we hope that you will keep these quotes in mind. Perhaps you can add a quote of your own!

Dates: Late-May to late-June, 2024

Application deadline: January 15, 2024

Program cost: $3,200 double accommodations; $3,430 single accommodations

Program: Students can take one of two courses: 1) Spanish language; or 2) Cuban Culture. Students must have completed at least two semesters of college Spanish to participate since the classes are not taught in English.

The University: Founded in 1728, the Universidad de La Habana (UH) has become one of the most recognized institutions of higher education in Latin America. The University is replete with history that provides students with a unique learning environment.