They are participating in the 8th Annual Study Abroad Program in Panama at UofL’s branch campus, the Quality Leadership University, in Panama City.

Participants earn six credit hours and take courses in communication, Spanish language and Panamanian culture.

They also go on excursions to such places as the Panama Canal, the presidential palace, the Emberá indigenous community in the Gamboa Rainforest, and Portobella and Isla Grande; so service learning projects; and have fun.

Rhonda Buchanan, director of UofL’s Latin American and Latino Studies program, directs this year’s program with assistance from Al Futrell, chair of the communication department; Frank Nuessel, Spanish language professor; and staff from UofL in Panama, including professor Ricardo Acosta, who teaches the course on Panamanian culture; Mary Bella del Mar; Virginia Campo; and Christiam Conte.

LALS and the Department of Communication are sponsors of the Study Abroad Program in Panama.

The group has an online photo gallery and plans to update it until it returns May 28.