Martinique
What would be better than spring break in the Caribbean? Earning one credit working with local entrepreneurs while you’re there! The program will focus on entrepreneurship, providing students with an understanding of the business climate in Martinique, a territory of France. Students from all majors who have an interest in entrepreneurship are invited to participate in this new and unique experience.
With a population of 385,550, the economy in Martinique has largely been driven by agriculture, tourism, and government work, with little access to diverse and varied employment. Similar to other islands in the Caribbean, Martinique is facing significant challenges in youth unemployment and talent retention. It is estimated that 54.7% of the youth workforce, ages 15-25, are currently unemployed. On this program, you can use your knowledge of business to help young entrepreneurs change this trend.
The program has been developed in partnership with Peacework, a global NGO based in Blacksburg which has partnered with non-profit and educational institutions in Martinique. Interactions with the local entrepreneurs will take place at The Mission Locale Nord Martinique, an NGO that has been working in this space for over 25 years.
Courses offered
MGT 3954 Study Abroad (1 credit)
Tentative travel schedule
- The program runs from Saturday to Saturday during spring break 2020 (March 7-14)
Likely visits or other info
The last day of our visit will feature a group excursion to north Martinique, including:
- Mount Pelee & Saint-Pierre: Infamous for the super destructive eruption of 1902 – the only volcanic disaster on French soil in history. The town of Saint-Pierre suffered the same fate as Roman Pompeii and will provide similar historical perspective.
- Gorges de la Falaise: Depending on the desires and hiking ability of the group, we will have the opportunity to visit Gordes de la Falaise. Around a mile’s walk from the commune of L’Ajoupa-Bouillon, the area features a series of hidden waterfalls and narrow gorges that are perfect for swimming and river walking.
Program fees are $3460. A non-refundable deposit of $500 payable online, is due after acceptance into the program, with the balance of program fees due at a later date.
Cost Summary (estimated) |
||
Pre-trip Personal Costs: |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
VT GEO Application fee |
$50 |
$50 |
VT GEO Participation fee |
$50 |
$50 |
Passport |
$145 |
$145 |
|
|
|
Pamplin billing: |
$3,460 |
$3,460 |
Airfare |
Included |
Included |
Lodging |
Included |
Included |
Required Group Travel |
Included |
Included |
Meals |
$125 |
$125 |
Medical Insurance |
Included |
Included |
|
|
|
VT tuition & fees if you are a Spring full-time student: |
$0 |
$0 |
|
|
|
Funds required during program: |
|
|
Personal Expenses |
$100 |
$100 |
Required personal travel |
$0 |
$0 |
|
|
|
Total Estimated Costs |
$3,930 |
$3,930 |
Note: Virginia Tech reserves the right to make cancellations, date and cost adjustments, and other necessary changes in the program. Prices may change due to global economic conditions.
Financial Aid and Scholarships: Your financial aid eligibility can apply to this program. You must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to the University Financial Aid Office. In addition, you must submit the study abroad cost documentation form to the Global Education Office at the International Afffairs building, 526 Prices Fork Road, room 131. The form can be found on the Global Education Financial Aid page.
Due to prepayment on items such as air and lodging, billing may not be in sync with financial aid payouts. Please be prepared to pay costs in advance, and be reimbursed with any payouts later.
There are up to 15 seats available for the program. The application deadline is December 1.
ELIGIBILITY
- Freshmen through Seniors, and Graduate Students
- Minimum GPA: 2.3 (We will use mid-term grades for freshmen to determine eligibility).
- Non-business students and graduate students are also welcome to participate, and will receive 3 credits. However, all participants must have completed MGT 1104 or equivalent.
- Priority is given to business students.
- Strongly preferred: French language skill or willingness to work on French before traveling
- MGT 3954 Study Abroad
- 1 credit
Contact Information
Linda Tanko
1046 Pamplin Hall
540-231-3562
ltanko@vt.edu
