8DAYS
While in New Orleans, the SStS group will work on ecological projects in the wetlands intended to lessen the potential impact of future hurricanes and potentially in areas of the city that have yet to fully recover. Students will have a chance to experience the Lower 9th Ward, where much of Katrina’s devastation is still clearly visible today. Additionally, throughout the course, participants will explore the city of New Orleans. After hearing the music that fills this city, they will learn about the history of jazz while visiting the French Quarter. Another highlight is a swamp tour that will provide the students with a firsthand perspective on life in rural Louisiana and its unique traditions. Time will also be spent with local residents, hearing their powerful accounts of how Katrina directly affected their lives. Throughout the program, students will experience the unique food, music, and culture of New Orleans, help the community to rebuild and revitalize, and learn invaluable lessons about ethical leadership.
The course elements are based on a rating from 1 to 5, 1 being the least rigorous, 5 being the most rigorous.
This was much more than a service trip; we were truly integrated into the community of New Orleans as we deeply understood the struggles of people in the Lower Ninth Ward and felt them as our own.
During the travel phase of each SStS course, students spend time reflecting about the learning that occurs through their immersion and service experiences. These posts capture the impact of our programs on individual students. Explore the posts below to learn about the SStS New Orleans program from the important viewpoint of our students.
Students who attend a Shoulder-to-Shoulder partner school receive a tuition discount. To see a list of partner schools, click HERE.
Tuition (students from partner schools): $1800 *
Tuition (students from non-partner schools): $2000 *
*Students are responsible for booking their own flight to meet the group in New Orleans. Once enrolled our admissions team will assist in choosing the correct arrival and departure times.
SStS is in search of curious, compassionate, globally-minded students. Thus, we will do all that we can financially to support students whose circumstances preclude paying the full cost. If you would like to be considered for financial assistance, please indicate so on the application. Financial assistance resources are limited. Scholarships tend to be less than 50% of tuition.
Please note, tuition does not include airfare.
Tuition costs are all inclusive with the exception of personal expenditures (e.g. souvenirs).
Talbot Travel Agency provides travel services for SStS, working personally with us to find the least expensive fares.
Please note that we expect all participants to arrive in New Orleans within a defined window of time to be picked up by their course instructors. Additionally, traveling as a group inevitably includes “the unexpected.” SStS will adjust the itinerary accordingly, making the best of uncontrollable situations. Due to the unknown variables in travel, participants are asked not to make travel plans or to enroll in programs that start immediately after their return. SStS is not responsible for expenses incurred due to missed flights if the group is delayed in their return.