Global Experiential Learning
About Our Program
The Foothill Office of Global Experiential Learning (GEL) organizes faculty-led study abroad and experiential learning programs where students can learn critical skills for thriving in a global workforce and becoming more responsible global citizens while engaging in a once-in-a-lifetime experience abroad.
GEL programs offer students immersive and holistic experiences, with learning happening in and outside of a traditional classroom. Programs vary in length and courses/credits offered, ranging from two-six week, short-term programs mostly offered in summer, and eight-ten week (quarter-long) programs during the academic year. Destinations and experiences vary each year, and all programs are well-suited for everyone regardless of academic major, prior travel or study abroad experience, age, or educational goal (lifelong learners are always welcome!).
The GEL Office prioritizes making programs affordable, with scholarships and financial aid available for most programs.
Past & Upcoming Themes
Past trips and themes have included global citizenship in London and Florence, environmental justice in Cuba, indigenous archaeology in Hawaii, and data analytics for social good in Kyoto. Programs planned for the 2025-2026 academic year include service learning in Guatemala, global studies and anthropology in Spain, archaeology in Ecuador and the Spring 2026 quarter-long program in Culture, Conservation, & Biodiversity in Costa Rica.
Upcoming Info SessionsPlease check upcoming experiences web pages linked below for details. Questions? Contact globalexperiences@fhda.edu. |
Trek Around the World & Learn Something New
Reserve your spot today in one of our faculty-led study abroad or short-term experiential learning programs!
Costa Rica, Spring 2026
Immerse yourself in a study of culture, conservation, and biodiversity in the lush landscape of Costa Rica. Earn 12-15 units of academic credit while you travel April 18–June 19, 2026!
Ecuador Field Study, Summer 2025
Join us June 28–July 18 in South America for an archaeology and cultural field study experience with course work and field trips.
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Madrid, Spain Summer 2025
Study abroad in Madrid, Spain this July 1–29. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and rich history of the Iberian Peninsula through our program Spain Today: The Intersection & Influence of Diverse Cultures Past & Present.
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Guatemala Summer 2025 Volunteer Trip
Experience Guatemala Aug. 12–25 in the mountainous village of El Astillero, where you'll support school sites and experience what daily life is like in rural Guatemala. Free time and evenings will be spent in the colonial tourist town of Antigua.
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Kyoto, Japan, Spring 2025
Embark on a transformative journey with Study Abroad in Kyoto, led by Foothill College professors Eric Reed and Laurence Lew. Dedicated to "Data Analytics for Social Good," this program merges technology and business acumen with immersive cultural experiences.
Learn MoreWith Foothill Global Experiential Learning You Can . . .
- Study abroad for an entire quarter while earning college credit in exciting destinations like Spain, Italy, England, Costa Rica, Japan, South Africa…and beyond!
- Join an active archaeological research project in the Bay Area, or in one of our summer projects in Ireland, Ecuador and Hawaii!
- Volunteer and participate in service learning projects locally and abroad in places like Guatemala, Honduras, the Philippines and Puerto Rico!
- Travel with Foothill faculty on short-term learning excursions and experiences around the Bay Area, the U.S. and abroad!
You can find more information about the new Office of Global Experiential Learning on this presentation.
Live Your Dreams!
Learn more about the reasons to study abroad. Check out our video travelogue from our summer 2022 trip to Guatemala.
To start your educational adventure, email us today at globalexperiences@fhda.edu
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