The Elective Program

With small cohorts, local experts as instructors, and thoughtfully curated itineraries, each Elective is a deep dive into a topic and a place that are inextricably linked.

Support and Enrichment

  • Facilitated Seamless Travel
    A dedicated Facilitator handles logistics, provides translation when needed, coordinates group meals for those interested, and ensures everything runs smoothly so you can focus on learning and discovery.

  • Curated Extracurriculars
    Each course includes two optional Extracurricular activities, led by the Facilitator, which you can opt into and pay for in advance of the program. Additionally, you’ll receive a curated list of suggestions for free-time activities, from concerts to seasonal festivals, to help you connect with the culture in meaningful ways.

Engage, Explore, Learn

  • A Cohort of Curious Minds
    Engage in meaningful discussions with like-minded peers who share your passion for the subject. Exchanges with your cohort provide fresh perspectives and a collaborative learning experience.

  • Expert Instructors With Local Insight
    Learn from local experts who not only master the subject matter but also connect it to the community and culture. Their unique perspectives and ties to other practitioners make your learning experience truly distinctive.

  • Time for Personal Exploration
    Customize your learning experience by using free time to explore aspects of the topic that interest you most. With guidance from your instructor, personalize your “syllabus” to fit your curiosity.

  • Diverse Perspectives
    Gain insight from a range of viewpoints to deepen your understanding and challenge assumptions, ensuring a rich and nuanced approach to the subject matter.

Elective Components

  • Daily Discussions

    Each day begins with a relaxed, seminar-style discussion over coffee at the hotel or a nearby café. The group gathers to reflect on the previous day, share discoveries, and connect Self-Guided Study back to the course themes. These sessions also introduce the day’s key topics and prepare you for what’s ahead, setting a thoughtful tone for your day of learning and exploration.

  • Field Seminars

    Field Seminars connect the course material to the place where you’re studying. Instructors lead you into parts of the city where the course theme resonates—in its streets, its architecture, its creative spaces, and its daily life. These on-site sessions deepen your understanding by linking ideas to the lived experience of the place and the local community.

  • Self-Guided Study

    Self-Guided Study is your chance to explore the aspects of your subject that are most meaningful to you personally. Whether it’s an exhibit, a performance, or a unique area of town, this time allows you to apply the course framework to your own interests. Guided by suggestions from your instructor, you can choose to explore solo or join other cohort members. This time is yours to do as you wish!

  • Extracurriculars

    Your Facilitator will organize two optional outings during the course—such as concerts, performances, tastings, or other local experiences. These activities take place during free afternoons or evenings and are designed to complement the course in an informal, enjoyable way. Details and costs will be shared about a month before departure, and if you choose to join, your Facilitator will handle all logistics and accompany you to the event.

  • Free Time & Meals

    Free time is yours to use as you wish—delve deeper into your subject area with recommendations from your instructor, explore the city, or simply relax. Meals are entirely flexible: you can do your own thing or meet up with other members of the cohort. The Facilitator is always available to help with reservations or suggest a favorite restaurant.

  • Curated Readings

    Before your course begins, you'll receive a carefully selected set of readings—designed to introduce key themes, provide historical or cultural context, and give you a taste of what’s to come. Additional recommendations are provided for those who want to continue learning after the program ends.