Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, Politics, Culture

During my time in Cuba, I wanted to learn as much as I could and immerse myself in different aspects of Cuban culture. We had our traditional classes in the morning from 9 am to 12 pm in which I learned about the many revolutions that occurred throughout the Latin Americas. Before taking this class, in school I was taught briefly about these different revolutions that had taken place, but I never realized how much was left out of those lessons.

As a class, we read pieces of literature, watched films, and visited important monuments that gave us an in-depth perspective of the Latin American people’s struggles and fight against their oppressors. My most memorable moment from this class was visiting the National Museum of Fine Arts of Havana in which we looked at many different thought-provoking pieces of art including revolutionary pieces featuring famous writer and Cuban independence leader Jose Marti, a statue of the Cuban coat of arms made of raw materials, statues, and art depicting Afro- Cuban ways of life, and my personal favorite a giant cockroach with a human head. In my afternoons, after grabbing lunch we had our Cuban salsa class. It felt like more of a party than a class. Throughout the three weeks, we learned a series of different steps and their names. On the night of the final class, our teachers took us out to an actual salsa club that they like to go to by the Malecón and we all got to try out the moves that we had spent time learning as we danced the night away. My favorite class and experience in Cuba took place at night, this was the Cuban cuisine class. Our professor is an amazing cook and not only showed us how to make many traditional Cuban recipes but also explained their origin and traditions. We made many dishes such as arroz con pollo, albóndigas de carne en salsa criolla, garbanzos a la cubana, and ropa vieja. They were all so delicious and I appreciate her for letting us into her home and sharing her traditions with us.

Overall, my time in Cuba was amazing and I definitely have plans to visit again sometime in the future. I am grateful for the opportunity I was given to be exposed to and learn from a new community outside of my own. One of the things I will never forget from my time in Cuba was the sense of community and the pride the people held for their culture and history. Everyone there was very kind, not only to us but to each other as well, people would stop and have full conversations with one another as if they were old friends catching up. As someone who comes from a country that has more individualistic norms, it was different but welcoming once I got used to it and I found it would make my day a little lighter. I have gained many new perspectives that I will carry with me as I further pursue a career interest in public health.

It has been one semester since I did my winter travel abroad to Cuba and I miss it so much! My experience there was wonderful and I am constantly using something I learned, whether it is how I'm making my coffee these days or my global perspective on current events. USAC made it so easy. Being a non-Spanish speaker, I was realistically afraid. Yet, the Cuban people welcomed me and my poor attempts at Spanish. My favorite part was walking and exploring neighborhoods and restaurants. I felt very safe there. USAC arranged an abundance of activities for us including rides in classic cars, a Cuban ballet and museum visits. I learned so much. I regret not staying longer. I dream of one day returning to La Habana!

My experience studying abroad with USAC was nothing short of an amazing time. They supported students academically and personally, as well as providing safety resources and tips. I feel as though the experiences and knowledge I gained from my study abroad experience are priceless, and I would recommend anyone who wants to seek new perspectives to study abroad with USAC. Along with my academic courses, my classmates and I were offered Cuban Salsa classes, as well as other extracurricular activities and excursions.

My trip to Cuba was plagued with medical issues and not knowing what was going on with my body. In Cuba, cell service is rare, so I couldn't Google my symptoms at the drop of a hat like at home or call my mom to get soothing pep talks. I had to rely on the people around me, the community of students and professionals, as well as my own wits. That experience was tough. Through my challenges I was strengthened, and I learned that I can overcome really tough obstacles- even when I'm scared. I loved it. I would do it again tomorrow if I could.

It was honestly one of the most eye-opening experiences from seeing a different culture as well as going without internet or phone service for the 3 weeks that I stayed. I did have the option to pay for slow internet or pay to call home but I decided to save the money and live in the past. I rode in cars older than my parents. I got to try new foods and listen to many Cubans tell me about their life. I was pushed outside my comfort zone by going 'alone' meaning that I didn't have any friends or family that went with me. I made friends in the same group as me and we all looked out for each other and had an amazing trip.

It's the people as much as the location that make the experience! I used USAC for two separate trips. Cuba was unique- with a political component that is significant in current events. The history incorporated into every day life is also unique. This program is incredibly affordable and a memorable experience. I recommend staying with a host family (although they can't technically call the accommodations such). If you're picky about food, this isn't for you. Otherwise, I enjoyed the inexpensive cuisine. Try the pizza!

This was my first time studying abroad and I couldn't have chosen a better program, than the program USAC offerd for La Habana, Cuba. The Director and everyone, including professors, touring guides, locals, couldn't have been sweeter. This experience was life changing. Even though we didn't have all the resources available to us so easily, it became such a humbling experience and made you appreciate everything you have back at home. The professors were super knowledgeable and tried to make the educational portion very interesting and fun. There is simply so much to see and to learn. The optional week offered is a MUST. You see so many cool places and learn about all the different regions and history. I dream every day to go back. #CubaLibre

I had the time of my life on this trip. Havana is beautiful, and there's a lot of fun things to do and see. USAC does a great job organizing fun and educational experiences, and they find relatively great housing for students. They also offer a week-long tour of the island, which is incredible and critical to the experience considering most of the country is not like Havana. There's a lot to learn about the history and culture of Cuba, and the trip will dispel many misconceptions Americans have about US-Cuban relations. The classes are really what you make of them: my experience was that the Cuban professors USAC partners with are very kind and knowledgeable, but there's a lot they won't talk about unless you ask. Havana is very safe, but because of the economic situation there be prepared to be bothered for money. Also be prepared to go without some privileges: water pressure, air conditioning, free toilet paper, use of your debit/credit card, etc. Overall an unbelievable, unique, and eye-opening experience, especially because these may be historic times for US-Cuban relations. Just about everyone on my trip wanted to go back soon.