Program Overview

Introduction to the Panama Service-Learning Program

The Office of Outreach Global premier Panama City Service-Learning Program will take place during Spring Break from March 6-14, 2026. This service-learning program integrates meaningful community service with academic expertise, providing students, faculty, and staff members the opportunity to serve alongside local organizations, learn about Panama's history, socio-economic issues, and immerse themselves in the Panamanian culture.

Program Overview

The goal of the Panama Spring Break service learning is not just about volunteering—it's about learning the culture, education, and environmental sectors of the country, and addressing real-world issues with compassion, innovation, and sustainability. In addition to meaningful service work, participants will explore Panama through guided visits to historical and national sites, and monuments, including the Panama Canal, as well as a day trip to an indigenous community.

Opportunities

• Work with environmental, water resource, water quality, education, agriculture, and land management organizations
  • Collaborate on projects focused on sustainability and community development
• Tour historical
  ational sites and monuments, including the Panama Canal and the indigenous Embera community
  • Gain insight into Panama's rich history and cultural heritage
• Become immersed in Panamanian Culture
  • Engage with local communities and experience the daily life of Panamanians

Program Fees

• AU and AUM Students: $1,600
• AU Staff/Faculty: $2,500
• Non-AU Faculty/Staff/Affiliates: $2,700 *Excludes roundtrip flight, passport fees, and some meals. **AUM students will also pay a $60 transient student fee.

Program Cost Includes

• 8 nights at hotel
• Breakfast each morning
• Welcome Dinner and Farewell Dinner
• Two lunches
• Cultural visits and excursions, including in-country transportation and site entry fees
• Service-learning opportunities

Program Cost Does Not Include

• Passport fees
• Roundtrip airline tickets
• International cell phone plan
• Personal expenses

Travel Requirements

Passport

All travelers must have a passport to participate in this program. If you already have a passport, please check the expiration date. Passports should be valid for at least 6 months following your scheduled time abroad. You should also have several blank pages available. If you do not have a passport, please check with the nearest local passport office and forms. For non-US citizens, please work with your specific embassy or consult.

Visa

It is the responsibility of the student to obtain immigration documents in order to legally study in their chosen country. In addition to consulting with Auburn Abroad, students should review requirements listed on the country's Consulate/Embassy websites. Non-U.S. Citizens should verify visa requirements with their home country. Non-US Citizens should also speak with Auburn University's International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) team.

Health Safety

It is the responsibility of the student to make sure they are physically and mentally prepared to go abroad. This includes meeting with current physicians and counselors to properly prepare any steps, medications, or communications before departure. It also includes reviewing the CDC website for any required vaccinations.

Insurance

For information on the required international emergency travel insurance and the recommended trip protection (cancellation and interruption) insurance, please review the program's insurance policies.