There’s no better way to start off a study abroad experience than with a fantastic introduction to a new part of world! ISA students studying for a semester or year in Australia, New Zealand, or Fiji will begin their program with the four-day Bridging Cultures Program, a unique program designed to help students discover a new culture, make new friends, and take part in amazing new adventures!
The Bridging Cultures Program (BCP) encompasses the ISA on-site orientation which is delivered to all students during the first days of their ISA program. The BCP is designed to help students prepare for their study abroad program and the new culture in which they’ll be interacting as well as give them tools to help facilitate discovery and learning during their program. This program focuses on helping students with goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development before their study abroad program begins.
Australia
Students studying in Australia will spend their first days at gorgeous Byron Bay. Between orientation sessions, students will enjoy surfing lessons, a lighthouse tour, a visit to a wildlife part to feed a kangaroo, an Aboriginal experience, and the chance to meet other ISA students spending a semester or year abroad. The Bridging Cultures Program is a great opportunity to meet the Australian resident staff and learn the ins and outs of everyday life Down Under.
New Zealand
Students studying in New Zealand will begin their adventure in Auckland and Rotorua, the adventure capital of the North Island. While also absorbing important information during the orientation sessions, students will experience a traditional Maori marae and hangi, learn the Haka, swim in geothermal hot pools, explore the importance of agriculture in New Zealand, and visit the Hobbiton movie set, all while meeting other students and the New Zealand staff. Learn about New Zealand culture and get helpful information on living with the Kiwis.
Fiji
After arriving in Fiji, students will spend four days in the tropical paradise of the Uprising Resort in Pacific Harbour. Between orientation sessions, students will discover beautiful coral reefs on a snorkeling safari, and travel up the Navua River to a traditional Fijian village where they will experience hospitality like nowhere else on earth. Enjoy delicious Fijian foods and unique crafts while learning about everyday life in the world’s most welcoming country.
After the Bridging Cultures Program, head to your program destination with lots of new friends and tons of knowledge about your new home!
