Program Overview
Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia: 2,000 Years of History
Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia are three small countries on the other side of the world that loom large in recent American history and continue to influence the direction of American actions on the geopolitical front.
In IDH 4007, you will prepare for the five-week trip to Southeast Asia by focusing on three main aspects:
- The history, culture, and art of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand
- English as a second language, working with Cambodian students to help them improve their English comprehension and speaking skills. Pre-med students may have the option to work with Cambodian medical professional in a local clinic
- Community impact, developing a project that meaningfully impacts the Cambodian people they will interact with while staying in Siem Reap.
IDH 4008 takes you through Southeast Asia. Arriving in Bangkok, Thailand for a short visit there, then to Vietnam, focusing on critical events that shaped Vietnamese society and culture over the centuries. Second, to Cambodia, exploring Khmer Rouge history and its Killing Fields and touring some of the major Angkor temple sites, viewing in person the evolution of the unique Khmer artistry over a 500-year span.
Program Start: Friday, May 8, 2026
Program End: Monday, June, 2026
Applications are closed
This study abroad program has reached capacity. We encourage you to review our available study abroad programs.
PROGRAM DETAILS
What you'll be doing
- Walking though Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious site
- Overnight cruise in Halong Bay
- Touring the Grand Palace of Bangkok
- Connecting with Vietnamese university students
- Assist future teachers in Cambodia with their English language skills at Provincial Teacher Training College
- Pre-Med students may have the option to volunteer in a local clinic
This is a living document, meaning that scheduled Free Time may be utilized for in-person quizzes, class meetings, and/or class days. Students should always consult with their Faculty Director prior to scheduling plans during Free Time.
Cost & Aid
- 30 nights in handpicked accommodations with 2 students per room
- Regional flights within program
- Regional land transportation by van or bus
- Airport transfers and few excursions
- Overnight boat cruise with 3 meals on board and 2 students per cabin
- Visas for Vietnam & Cambodia. Depending on your nationality, you may need to contact the consular offices to attain a visa.
- International travel medical insurance
- English-speaking tour guide for some activities
- Breakfast included by some hotels
- Student Exchange Days
- English teaching at Teacher Training College and local high school in Cambodia (20+ service hours) or volunteering at a local clinic
- 24/7 support from Faculty Directors
- Admission to Grand Palace of Bangkok, Cu Chi Tunnels, Bang Pa In Summer Palace, and so much more
Your Co-Faculty Directors
Cory Fairfield, MA
I've been part of the FIU community for over ten years. I started my academic journey here at Florida International University, where I completed both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. Currently, I'm working towards my Ed.D in Adult Education and Human Resource Development and expect to graduate in Fall 2026.
Aside from a little bit of teaching, I currently work full-time at FIU as the Associate Director of Academic Support Services for CARTA and am well-versed in what you all are going through as undergraduate students. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new places to eat, exercising, and spending time with my wife and daughter. I am also an avid gamer and enjoy watching the latest movies in theaters.
Eloisa C. Rodriguez-Dod
Professor of Law and former Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Professor Rodriguez-Dod joined the FIU College of Law in 2012. She served for several years as the Director of FIU Law Study Abroad in Seville, Spain. Prior to joining FIU, she was a Professor of Law at NSU College of Law, where she also served as the Academic Director of its University of Barcelona dual-degree program.
Professor Rodriguez-Dod has been selected “Professor of the Year” at both law schools and, in 2016, was the recipient of the university-wide FIU Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching. She is a recognized authority in property, estates, elder law, and real estate transactions.
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