Trek Estonia, Finland, and Russia

CANCELLED

Summer 2012 quarter

Faculty

Robert Smurr Russian history, environmental history

Fields of Study

cultural studies, environmental studies, history, international studies, language studies, literature, outdoor leadership and education, study abroad and writing

Preparatory for studies or careers in

history, environmental history, foreign service, journalism, linguistics, cultural studies

Description

This program will take a group of adventurous students on a month-long trek to Estonia, Finland, and Northwest Russia, three countries that share access to the Baltic Sea.  We will explore the human cultures and landscapes of two Finno-Ugric countries, Estonia and Finland, as well as that of their former imperial ruler, Russia. In addition, this program will investigate and travel through many of the region's more remote and picturesque areas, including three national parks in Estonia, native Sami vicinities in Northern Finland, and stunning backcountry regions of Russia's neighboring Republic of Karelia. We will analyze all three of these countries' ancient and powerful histories and folkloric traditions, and we will use these analyses as we attempt to more fully understand today's numerous environmental threats to the region.

Because this program will entail a great deal of tent camping, hiking, and lengthy drives in remote locations, all participants must be in top physical shape and willing to endure unexpected hardships and challenges.

There will be an information session and slideshow on campus April 9, 5:00-6:00, in Sem2 C1105.

Contact faculty at any time if interested.

Advertised Schedule

Travel abroad July 30 - Aug. 30 (tentatively scheduled)

Location

Olympia

Online Learning

Enhanced Online Learning

Books

Greener Store

Required Fees

Approximately $3800 for roundtrip airfare to Helsinki, Finland and one month of travel in Estonia, Finland, and Russia (Contact faculty for final price, as it may be slightly higher or lower than this estimate.)

Study Abroad

Camping, hiking, and travel in Estonia, Finland, and Russia: Arriving in Helsinki, Finland on or about July 30, 2012 and departing Helsinki on or about August 30, 2012. A nonrefundable deposit of $500 is due by June 30, 2012. Students need to be experienced in outdoor camping and/or be willing to endure and even embrace unexpected and unpredictable hardships.  A proper appreciation of and tolerance for distinct foreign cultures is considered mandatory.

Offered During

Day, Evening and Weekend

Program Revisions