Study Abroad

Why Study Abroad?

Open your eyes to the world
Invest in your future by developing cross-cultural skills that will enable you to communicate with colleagues anywhere in the world.

Enhance your career
Learn how to function in a culturally diverse environment early on. Develop broader skills and the ability to adapt to new environments.

Personal growth
See your culture and yourself from a different perspective. Learn to appreciate other languages and cultures, while better understanding your own cultural values.

Did you know?
You do not need to speak another language to study abroad. Many programs offer courses in English.

Experience Guinea

Exploration in Drumming, Dancing and Historical Context

DANC 285 or MUSC 146
December 29-January 16, 2026
Guinea, West Africa

Summary

Three intense weeks with master drummer, dancer, and Rochester adjunct faculty member, Fana Bangoura. Historical lectures, daily dance, and drum classes, and live performances by professional artists and a mini-festival for student to showcase their work.

Experience the culture among the mountains of Dubreka. Dance and drum in the lively compound and relax under a mango tree. The trip will be pure Guinea.

Overview

Students will be housed in a modern privately owned compound in Dubreka less than an hour north of the capital Conakry.

Housing includes a living room, porch, and bathtub/shower. Double rooms with twin beds are provided. The compound sits with a beautiful view of the mountains.

Dining area includes two porches that are attached to the housing area for a convenient community atmosphere. Three traditional Guinean meals per day are provided. Dishes will include rice, sauce, lamb, chicken, fish and fresh fruit and vegetables. Vegetarian options available upon request. The community market is nearby for those who would like additional food items.

Program will need a minimum of six students for enrollment.

Schedule and Program Details

MONDAY-FRIDAY:

  • 7-9 a.m.: Breakfast
  • 9:30-11 a.m.: Drum Class
  • 11:15 a.m.-12:45 p.m.: Dance Class
  • 1-3 p.m.: Lunch
  • 3-4:30 p.m.: Dance Class
  • 4:45-6:15 p.m.: Drum Class
  • 7 p.m.: Dinner

After dinner, students may have free time or may participate in cultural dialogue and learn other instruments.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY:

Three hours of instruction, time to explore the local markets, attend ceremonies and dundunbas, and travel to the nearby waterfalls of Dubreka.

PROGRAM INCLUDES:

  • Lodging
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Dance and drum lessons
  • Certificates of completion from the Guinea Minister of Culture and Ballet Fareta

CREDIT/COURSES:

  • 4 credits: DANC 285 or MUSC 146
  • Course counts toward major, minor, and cluster in Dance

PROGRAM FEES:

  • $500 Deposit
  • $4,580 Program Fee*

*Airfare, yellow fever vaccine, passport, and personal expenses are not included in the program fee and are considered out-of-pocket costs.

All applicants will be considered for need-based scholarships to apply toward the program fee listed above. $500 deposit will beapplied toward the program fee.

How to Apply

Apply online at studyabroad.rochester.edu. The deadline to appply is October, 1, 2025.

Questions?

Contact Ted Pagano at the Center for Education Abroad at tpagano@admin.rochester.edu or Fana Bangoura at kerfala.bangoura@gmail.com.

Recommended Collaborating Programs

The following programs are especially suited for students looking to take dance and movement courses while abroad:

For more information about studying abroad visit the study abroad website.

Getting Credit

For major or departmental credit:
Missy Pfohl Smith
Office: 207 Spurrier
m.p.smith@rochester.edu

For elective credit, consult with a study abroad advisor.

What are my first steps?

  1. Attend an information session
  2. Research available programs
  3. Meet with a study abroad advisor