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Capstone Scholars

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Yucatan Spring Break Program

How are ancient ruins represented in today’s digital world? This program dives into the online presences of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula (Merida, Mexico). From official websites to social media, we’ll analyze how historical sites like Chichén Itzá and Uxmal are presented to global audiences, and how these digital portrayals shape cultural understanding, sustainability, and historical preservation efforts. Join Capstone Scholars Program’s Faculty Director Dr. Elise Lewis and Capstone Scholars Program leads Julie Boyken and Haley Robinson as we embark on an unforgettable journey to Yucatan for Spring Break 2026!

Program Overview

  • Duration: March 7-14, 2026
  • Course listing: INTL 250
  • This course will include class meetings during the first half of the Spring semester
  • Course credit:  1 hour
  • Program Leaders: Elise Lewis, Haley Robinson, Julie Boyken

Highlights

  • Tour of historic downtown Merida
  • Day trip to Cenote Santa Barbara
  • Visit to the Mayan Ruins
  • Experience a chocolate museam, a stingless bee apiary, a cooking class, and a beautiful Yucatan beach

Costs

Program fee: $2,050 before any Capstone Scholars Program funding is included. Once a student's application for the program is accepted, they will automatically be eligible for the Capstone Scholars Adventure Grant which will reduce the program fee to $550.

Includes:

  • Accommodations in Merida
  • 5 group meals, breakfast for all days
  • All excursions included in the itinerary 
  • Local Guide with 24/7 language support
  • 3 USC Program Leaders

Does not include:

  • Airfare, University required insurance, Education Abroad application fee ($150), passport, meals not covered in the itnerary, and personal spending.

Information Sessions

These are a great chance to meet your program leaders, learn about the application process and more of what to expect from the program. Attendance is not mandatory in order to apply!

September 25 - 3:00-4:00pm at TBD

October 6 -  1:00-2:00pm at TBD

October 15 - 9:00-10:00am (virtual) at here


Application

Check back here on September 15 to apply. Application closes October 17 at 11:59pm


Contact Us

If you have further questions about this opportunity, feel free to email Capstone Scholars Program Lead, James Jacocks


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