Program
Program
What Students Say
"The program is really spectacular. It gives you the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, learn Sinhala, conduct your own independent study on any topic of your choice, and become a part of a Sri Lankan family." (Grinnell Student, 2009)
"Being part of the environment which held the roots of most of what I was interested in academically and currently studying made for an unforgettable and deeply enriching intellectual experience." (Holy Cross Student, 2008)
“It was an extremely rewarding experience because the academic component was closely linked to the more social, experiential one.” (Bowdoin Student, 2008)
"The program was absolutely incredible. The staff was kind and helpful, the families were extremely welcoming, and the other students were intelligent and friendly. The trips and events were also interesting and well-planned." (Carleton Student, 2007)
"I feel so fortunate to have been a part of this program and look forward to returning to visit this wonderful place that has become a part of who I am." (Bates student, 2006)
Peradeniya students relaxing in the campus
"[My host family was] my favorite part of the ISLE program. Now I have a Lankawe family and an American family. It’s nice to have a family here rather than just being a student" (Colby student, 2005)
"It was a holistic academic journey, all the subjects wove themselves together; you learn about others and yourself." (Holy Cross student, 2004)
"The selection and style of the course were wonderful and the professors are truly some of the best here. It's remarkable the number of things I learned in the class that even changed the simple conversations I had and could have with the locals. Debates, subject matter, and growth all were remarkable in the help of the classes. I think the breakup of the tours at appropriate points gives a nice space between the academically rigorous semesters and incoming and inculturation to Sri Lanka. I learned an exorbitant academic amount within the class times..." (Swarthmore student, 2003)
"If you know absolutely nothing about Sri Lanka then you have a very good reason to come on the program--I couldn't even imagine nearly all of what I learned just four moths ago. This program has smashed many of my preconceptions about the world and rearranged them into more meaningful ways of understanding the world, as only distant travel and cross-cultural experiences can. A five star program!" (Carleton Student, 2002)
Students at their final tea