PACIFIC BASIN PROGRAM
United States in the Global Community
Close Up takes its mission of informing, inspiring, and empowering students to the Hawaiian Islands during our annual, week-long Pacific Basin Program. This unique program in Honolulu focuses on international relations, specifically within the context of the Asia-Pacific region. From visits to famous landmarks, such as Pearl Harbor and Punchbowl National Cemetery to discussing how a country uses tools of foreign policy to respond to a crisis situation, students get an in-depth look at the complexities of diplomacy and will gain a better understanding of U.S. foreign policy. The culminating event - our six-part United States in the Global Community (USGC) simulation - is always a curriculum highlight for the students!
Like all other Close Up programs, our Pacific Basin program retains the same goal of promoting active citizenship. Students learn how foreign policy decisions affect their lives directly and indirectly. Close Up’s highly-trained Program Instructors stimulate discussions among students and ensure that students understand how governments formulate foreign policy and how they interact with one another on the global stage. The USGC simulation is designed to help make those processes transparent and to identify the key decision makers in the process. Program instructors also help students make the connection to their role as a citizen in influencing foreign policy.
Throughout the week, students and teachers will explore the island of Oahu and delve into the culture and beauty that is unique to our 50th state. Through on-site visits to locations such as the Bishop Museum, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, and Nu’uana Pali Lookout, students discuss how our culture, economy and environment are affected by local, state and federal policies. And by hiking Diamond Head trail, relaxing at Waimanalo beach, snorkeling with friends and eating poi for the first time at our end of week luau, students also get a taste of the Polynesian lifestyle.
Join a select group of students for this seven day/six night program. Space is limited so register early
"I am so grateful for Close Up and all the experiences I have had here because they have truly transformed my views on world, national and local issues."
