“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” —St. Augustine

University of St. Thomas-Houston Associate Professor Dr. Tom Behr is offering 17 students a chance to revel in “an entire chapter” of that proverbial book on an incredible three-week study abroad trip to Europe this winter. UST’s study abroad journeys are matchless and memorable learning opportunities. This trip is part of a course called “European Cultural & Historical Tour Winter Session: Paris to Venice.”

Art History and Intellectual History Components

Behr said, “There is an art history component and an intellectual history component, which is a history of ideas. So, our visits to museums, art galleries and historic sites will provide opportunities to tie together the artifacts of material culture with the ideas and values that gave rise to them — and, of course, which still influence the world today.”

Preparatory Study Has Already Begun

On Oct. 12, students began the course’s five weeks of lecture and seminar discussion of assigned readings on the civilization of western Europe with a particular focus on the culture and history of two great world cities: Paris, France, and Venice, Italy. Then, from Dec. 26 – Jan. 15, Behr will journey overseas with the students and lead an unforgettable mini-grand tour of historic European sites — Paris, Heidelberg, the Austrian Alps, Venice and Ravenna. On their robust schedule are visits to cultural and historical sites, city tours and museums.

Learning to Appreciate Our Civilizational Roots

While on the once-in-a-lifetime trip, students will take notes on sights and lectures. These they will use for required posting to daily blogs, vlogs or e-journals. On their return from Venice, they will have written and submitted their final essays.

“On a history tour like this, it’s not only about experiencing the life of these great cities today—with all their diversity and dynamism—but primarily, students will grow in appreciation of the depth and breadth of our own civilizational roots,” Behr said.

About UST Study Abroad

UST’s multiple opportunities for Celts to study abroad individually or in faculty-led programs have resumed. In addition, the Study Abroad Office monitors any destination risk factor, such as COVID and related travel regulations.

For more information on the University’s study abroad programs, contact studyabroad@stthom.edu.

“Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind.”  —Seneca