CLC broadens global offerings to include Peru

From China to Peru, the College of Lake County in Grayslake is expanding its "study abroad" courses to cater to the demand for a global-savvy work force.

This July, CLC is offering a two-week field study in Peru exploring culture, historical sites, modern life, educational system and economics.

Earlier this year, CLC launched an intensive East Asian studies program offering what no other area community college does - a semester in China, a powerhouse in the world's economy.

Over the years, CLC staff has led short-term trips to several European countries, China, Costa Rica and Mexico.

"This is the first time in Peru," said Robert Kerr, the CLC professor of economics leading the tour.

By going to Peru, students will better understand one of the United States' global trade partners, he said.

"Trade with Peru in raw materials is important," Kerr said. "Even with the downturn in the economy, it is still a global economy."

Kerr said recent political events and changes in the Peruvian leadership have led to progressive reforms in the government.

"We'll be doing a course in general cultures as well as comparative education," Kerr said, adding they would also meet with educational leaders in Lima.

Students will visit the pre-colonial sites of Macchu Picchu, the Pisac ruins and Nazca Lines, colonial Cusco and modern Lima, as well as Lake Titicaca, the highest large lake in the world.

Students can learn more about the Peru field study trip, July 1-15, at an informational meeting, 4:30 p.m. Jan. 13 in room A218 on CLC's Grayslake campus, 19351 W. Washington St.

"I think they'll come back with the experience of seeing a developing economy, both the rural issues as well as urban issues," Kerr said. "And I think they'll come back with a new cultural and historical perspective of Peru."

The estimated course cost is $3,500 not including travel insurance, tuition and fees.

For details call Michelle Proctor, education instructor, at (847) 543-2942 or Kerr at (847) 543-2533; or visit clcillinois.edu/credit/academics/fieldstudytrips.asp for an application. Applications are due mid-March.

The Web site also has information on CLC's 2009 trips to China, Wisconsin and the Appalachian Trail.