December 05, 2025
Destination: EVERYWHERE
Learning in the World travelers reflect on lessons brought to lifeRight now, across Andover Hill, students are dreaming about studying field ecology in Botswana, traditional dancing in Puerto Rico, sustainability in Switzerland, and ancestral cultures in Peru.
Learning in the World helps make those dreams a reality. Recently celebrating its 10th anniversary, LITW builds on a commitment to provide experiential learning opportunities integral to a comprehensive Andover education. The endeavor offers 10-plus PA programs and myriad additional affiliate choices in the United States and abroad, among them the longstanding Russian Language Immersion in Estonia and The Andean HUACA Project. Also under the LITW umbrella are the popular travel options for music, theatre, and dance students established decades ago, now recast as Performing in the World.
LITW travelers explore Peru in The Andean HUACA Project
Every PA student who wishes can now join at least one program during their time at the Academy. Between 150 and 250 students participate annually, with each experience bookended by academic exploration beforehand and mindful reflection afterward. Ongoing investments in Student Experience Funds from alumni, families, and friends make it all possible for these intrepid scholars, regardless of their ability to pay. Gifts of all sizes are critical to offset ever-rising costs and incidentals like visas, gear, and travel medicine.
LITW Director Mark A. Cutler P’24, ’26, an instructor in Spanish, says that all programs, no matter the destination, prepare students for 21st-century global citizenship. “We hope that each Learning in the World experience is unforgettable, and the enduring lessons can be the most powerful outcome,” Cutler says. “I relish the stories of choices made and avenues sought because a young person had a breakthrough on one of our programs and embarked upon a new course. When a student can trace important life decisions to LITW, it’s clear we are realizing our mission.”
Here, in their own words, LITW travelers share their insights:
“I think the Performing in the World programs in London and Portugal have been the absolute best highlights of my time here at Andover. There is something so fun and exciting about spending a whole week, in a new environment, with close friends, playing the music that we love.”
—Ethan ’26, Performing in the World: Chorus and Orchestra
“LITW is one of the school’s foundational pillars, and for good reason. It’s more than a trip—it’s a living, moving classroom where students don’t just learn about the world, they experience it. Donor support ensures that every student has access to this transformative opportunity. Truly, it’s a lifelong investment in character, perspective, and purpose.”
—Noureddine El Alam P’19, ’21, Faculty Co-Leader, Morocco: Gateway to Africa Cultural Immersion
“In Switzerland, I engaged with people across different ages and backgrounds, without being intimidated. I also taught myself how to ask better questions and hold meaningful conversations. Ones that stay with me afterward, keep me thinking, and fuel my curiosity.”
—Antonella ’27, Systems, Sustainability, and Social Impact: The Villars Symposium
“From the samurai history to the symbolism of a piece of rope, I found a new love for Japan that transcended my prior expectations. I explored the importance of craft, the quiet and meticulous processes that helped shape centuries. LITW is so worth it.”
—Carsen ’27, 日本の創道 : The Way of Japanese Craft
“Through LITW travel, I discovered that the actions we make at home help preserve unique ecosystems like the Galápagos and other natural places. We are a valuable part of those ecosystems, too, and conservation efforts and sustainability practices must consider humans in addition to the natural world.”
—Madelyn ’27, Ecology and Evolution: The Galápagos Islands
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