COURSE INFORMATION:

Students will be enrolled in the following course:

COMM 481: Capstone (3 credits)

PROGRAM INFORMATION:

This will be an incredible, action-packed experience ideal for students completing their senior capstone course in the communication major. The Wired and Inspired Capstone course sequence (COMM 480/481) is about using interpersonal and mediated communication to set and achieve goals. In the spring, we will be on campus. We will read research on motivation, networking, identity capital, grit, and goal-setting, as well as interpersonal theories on self-presentation, efficacy, and esteem. Course activities require challenging communication comfort zones, establishing mentors, small group problem solving, resilience training, and branding. Students complete a research paper on a topic of interest. During the COMM 481 course (Maymester), we will take a journey to Peru. We will hike through Machu Picchu, voted one of the New Wonders of the World. The experience includes physical activities designed to test your efficacy and small group communication (i.e., hiking, biking, white water rafting, and zip lining). Homestays, service learning, and meetings with local entrepreneurs will spark conversations about daily life, economy, ethics, religion, and education. The views and the people will inspire us to become creators of content, trying to convey what we experience for different audiences. Students will produce pieces for their professional portfolios around the trip. They will improve their Adobe skills (InDesign, Final Cut Pro, Photoshop). Note: Students may opt to continue traveling after the conclusion of the trip.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:

-Students must have an overall GPA of 2.5
-Students must already possess a valid passport, or be able to obtain a valid passport

PROGRAM DIRECTOR:

Dr. Merissa Ferrara
Department of Communication
ferraramh@cofc.edu
843-425-2781

Dr. Merissa Ferrara has been teaching at the College of Charleston for over 12 years. In 2016, she earned the campus Distinguished Teaching Award. She has traveled to over 40 countries spanning 5 continents. In 2013, she sailed- and taught- around the world, experiencing 13 countries through the Semester at Sea Program. She has either led or co-led College of Charleston study abroad programs in several countries including India, Morocco, Spain, Italy, Greece, Costa Rica, and Portugal. She teaches courses in Interpersonal Communication and Health Communication.

Note: For questions regarding on-site program details and course content, please contact the program director. Any inquires regarding application processing, billing, or scholarship opportunities can be directed to the Center for International Education (contact information listed above

*A minimum number of participants is required for all study abroad programs to run