Many Pomfret students choose to travel in the US or abroad during their time on the Hilltop. Through these experiences, they gain insight into new cultures, new languages, and new ways of seeing the world. More often than not, they return transformed and eager to share what they have learned.

In the past, Pomfret students and faculty have explored Islamic traditions in Morocco, examining the roots of common stereotypes to promote peace and empathy. They have lived with local families and contributed to sustainable service projects in Peru, where they also studied the rise and fall of the Inca nation. Using a forty-foot telescope, students observed and processed radio data in the National Radio Quiet Zone (NRQZ) at the Green Bank Observatory in West Virginia. Now, in addition to long-running trips to Costa Rica, Spain, and Hurricane Island, as well as newer offerings in Alabama and the Galápagos Islands, students can study in the South of France, Greece, Japan, and Mexico.

As part of the Strategic Plan, Change Makers and Problem Solvers, Pomfret has broadened both the destinations and academic disciplines available to students. These expanded opportunities are available to all students, regardless of their ability to pay. In January 2023, Pomfret introduced the Experiential Travel Fund to support students with demonstrated financial need. Every student who registers for a Pomfret-sponsored, travel-based program has the opportunity to receive funding once during their time at Pomfret. To date, more than 30 percent of Pomfret students participate in at least one travel program, and nearly 40 students have participated in more than one during their time on the Hilltop.

“I love the travel courses for the incredible experiences I've had that I wouldn't be able to get anywhere else. I’ve learned so much about myself and others and grown tremendously as a person,” says Nyx McIvor ’27, who has traveled to Hurricane Island, the Galápagos Islands, and Montgomery, Alabama. “My favorite trip was to Ecuador. Staying in the secluded Yunguilla community opened my eyes to the importance of community and working towards a common goal.”

This past May, students visited Ikaria, Greece — one of the world’s five Blue Zones. During the ten-day experience, they cultivated habits of wellbeing that make Ikaria one of the happiest and healthiest communities on Earth. They explored local markets, cooked Ikarian recipes, met beekeepers and goat farmers, took part in cultural festivities, swam in the Aegean Sea, relaxed in geothermal springs, and embraced the island’s intentionally slow pace.

This spring, during the Project: Pomfret period, students will explore the cultural landscapes and contemporary realities in Japan that influence the work of best-selling author Haruki Murakami. After studying Murakami’s writing during the winter term, students will travel to Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Mount Fuji to witness firsthand the tensions between tradition and modernity that shape both Japan and his novels.

Also during Project: Pomfret, students will travel to Mérida, Yucatán, for an intensive language immersion program. They will explore the history and living legacy of the Maya civilization, participate in community service projects, stay with local families, and take part in cultural workshops. Excursions to Chichén Itzá, Izamal, Valladolid, Río Lagartos, and Progreso Beach will deepen their understanding of Mexico’s diverse geography and traditions.

Over the summer, students can study French in the South of France. This new opportunity in Montpellier builds on a previously offered art and language program in north-central France and offers similar immersive experiences. With four hours of daily language instruction, homestays, cultural activities, and weekend excursions to Arles, Nîmes, and Marseille, students will gain a rich appreciation of French culture, history, art, cuisine, and language.

“It’s wonderful that Pomfret has developed such a broad range of Experiential Learning programs covering diverse academic subjects and destinations around the world,” says Director of Experiential Learning Doug Litowitz. “For many, myself included, travel-based learning can be truly transformative. Not only are you visiting amazing places, you’re also stepping outside of your comfort zone to engage with people and cultures in a deep and meaningful way. You’re creating shared experiences and memories with classmates and teachers that last a lifetime.”

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