How did the idea for the program come about?
Col. Lance Young who teaches in the Business School was making
plans to travel to France a couple of years ago and, since I was born there, he
asked me questions about his travel plans. He noticed that I had just published
a book entitled French-American
Relations: Remembering D-Day after September 11 in which I interviewed WWII
veterans on both sides of the Atlantic about their war experience and their
vision of the world today: issues pertaining to September 11, the war in Iraq,
the dialogue among cultures, and the fate of democracy and civilization. He
proposed when we met that we organize a Maymester to Paris and Normandy to visit
the WWII sites in Northern France and Normandy.
FAQ:
Why do you think this program is important for students to participate in?
The students of Clemson University revisit the journey of the American soldiers
during WWII in Normandy, Paris and Northern France. Through this journey, they
analyze and reflect on the GIs' actions and experiences, on the current place
and role of the United States in the world, and/or on current issues in
international relations. The students are invited to explore these topics from
a broad range of perspectives. They learn to have a better appreciation of what
their grand-parents have witnessed and experienced, and what they have
accomplished also through their actions, for the betterment of humani
What are some things that students will learn on the trip?
The students will gain knowledge in the history of the American experience internationally during a significant period of the 20th Century. They will learn about the past and present role of the United States, its influence and perception worldwide through an active interaction with people living abroad. They will experience a different culture, through tours, interactions and conversations. Finally, they will have a broader understanding of the world outside the United States, a capability that is in my view essential in a globalized world.
Who helped you make the program a reality?
The students did and they also help us make it a fun and enjoyable experience. We are attentive to their views and requests. For example, some of them felt last year that we should visit the tombs of Clemson alumni who fought and died in Normandy; even though it was not originally planned, we stopped by St. James Cemetery in Brittany and Coleville-sur-Mer at Omaha Beach in Normandy to pay homage to Clemson veterans. These were very memorable events that will remain with us for a long time. This was true for other sites as well like going to the top of the Eiffel Tower and view from there the Statue of Liberty in Paris facing West toward the United States. The Study Abroad office is also very helpful in the preparation of such a trip.
