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Sophomore Program

Biology, History, and World Religions in South Africa

Kirstenboscho National Botanical Garden

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Courtesy of Discott/Wikimedia

Each year, NMH sophomores have the opportunity to take part in an interdisciplinary travel program that allows them firsthand experiences with the people, places, and cultures they’ve studied in the classroom. The program is open to students enrolled in the Humanities II World History and World Religions and biology courses, and the destination varies from year to year.

In the 2025-26 academic year, students will travel to South Africa, where they will explore the country’s rich and complex history by examining apartheid, resistance movements, and the role of religion in shaping social justice. 

Tall outdoor pillars in South Africa, text-democracy, Diversity, Responsibility etc

Apartheid Museum, Courtesy of NJR ZA/Wikimedia

Through visits to museums and historical sites and interactive workshops, students will engage with themes of power, oppression, and reconciliation while making connections to contemporary issues. The interdisciplinary program integrates history, religion, and biology through a diverse range of activities, community engagement, and reflective exercises, allowing students to gain a holistic understanding of South Africa’s past and present.

 

Skylights_inside_Zeitz_MOCAA_-_Museum_of_Contermporary_Art_Africa

Skylights inside Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa,
Courtesy of Michael Rowe, Wikimedia

In destinations including Cape Town and Johannesburg, students will participate in rich cultural and educational exchanges with local professors and organizations; engage in meaningful service projects; visit important biological, cultural, and religious sites and museums; discuss relevant topics with experts; and experience the local gastronomy and rich culture in an immersive educational journey.