you had me at "Bula"!
FIJI ISLANDS
Let the games begin!
school's abroad for summer!
Welcome to Scholar Island, the ultimate academic adventure in Fiji! Every morning is about engaging classes and every afternoon, teams face off in physical and mental challenges. In the second week, the competition heats up as teams face elimination, with only one team ‘surviving’ as Scholar Island champions. It’s the ultimate mix of academic rigor, one-of-a-kind cultural moments and exhilarating competition in a stunning island setting.
your academic journey
Partnered with the University of the South Pacific (USP), this program offers the three-credit class, "Pacific Worlds”. Learning comes alive; local USP Fijian students join you in the classroom as you explore Pacific Islander identity, sustainability, and history in a way that's totally hands-on. Class includes a field trip to a local village and traditional ceremonies.
The University of the South Pacific (USP), established in 1968, is a beacon of higher education in the Pacific, embodying the spirit of regional cooperation and academic excellence. It's one of the only two regional universities in the world, making it a unique institution that serves a consortium of twelve member countries, including Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu, among others.
Pacific Islands
Pacific Studies History Environmental Science AnthropologyPREREQUISITE
NA
DATES
Aug 5 - 17, 2025
CREDIT
3
COURSE CODE
UU204
This interdisciplinary course aims to develop Pacific consciousness and sustainability thinking. It introduces students to the places, histories, cultures, arts, and politics of Oceania. Specific issues include migration patterns; colonial and postcolonial contexts; Pacific understandings of cultural and heritage resources and conflict over these resources; and future challenges and opportunities in the region. A unique aspect of this course is the use of a contextual pedagogy that applies Pacific navigational concepts using a ‘Vaka’ model. Navigating through specific issues and contexts to Pacific histories, current realities and future aspirations of the region, students will develop self and collective awareness, demonstrate teamwork, and engage in critical and creative thinking.
your abode
Stay in style! Beachside rooms at the 4-star Mana Island Resort & Spa offer incredible views, blending traditional Fijian architecture with contemporary comforts like wifi. You'll be staying in one of the resort's Ocean View Rooms, perfectly situated to offer you a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean every morning. These rooms are newly renovated and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. The decks attached to each room provide a serene spot to unwind after a day of exploration and adventure. You will share a room with two other students from the program. Your stay includes three buffet meals a day and all the resort activities.
local vibes
Live your reality television fantasy in paradise! The team challenges blend academic knowledge from the classroom with mental and physical tasks, all with a local flair. Solve clues to uncover local totems that will give your team an edge. In your downtime, snorkel the amazing reefs, hang with friendly locals, hike the nature trails and just embrace every bit of adventure Fiji has to offer.
experience more of Fiji
Mana Island is just the start. Explore Fiji through excursions and cultural events, all included with your Hop study abroad program.
Cloud 9
Spend an afternoon lounging out at Cloud 9: a legendary Fijian oasis in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy wood-fire pizzas and refreshments in style while enjoying the crystal blue water.
Fijian Village
Be invited to visit a village on a neighboring island to hear about the history and culture of the people who call these islands home. You will participate in a kava ceremony upon arrival, be shown around the village, and have the opportunity to shop at their souvenir market.
Basket Weaving
Learn how to weave traditional Fijian baskets from palm fronds. Who knows? It might be paramount in a challenge!
where study abroad meets reality television
Become a reality television star! All the excitement, thrills, and challenges are captured to share on social media. Your friends and family can root for you from around the world.
Josua
"It was the best experience I’ve ever had"
Makenna
"Hearing their story and participating in Fijian culture, it’s been life-changing. It’s been so much fun"
Danny
“The best part was getting to know the Fijian students, and creating a really strong connection”
Ben
"I can't imagine doing anything like this ever again"
making it happen
inclusions
Full tuition for 3 credits
Resort housing including Wi-Fi
All meals
Scholar Island challenges
All in-country transfers by bus and boat
Cultural events and excursions
Hop Orientation
Airport reception and pickup
24/7 Hop support and your Hop Go-To (other programs say Resident Director)
Pre-departure advising to get you ready
International airfare not included
Mana Island, Fiji
Summer: Aug 5 – 17, 2025
Summer: Aug 4 – 16, 2026
$3,950
why study abroad with Hop this summer?
Summer with Hop isn’t just about academics—it’s about creating unforgettable memories, challenging yourself, and returning home with stories that will stay with you forever.
unique & innovative experiences
Our programs offers one-of-a-kind summer experiences tailored to various interests—whether you're diving into Korean culture in Seoul, competing on Scholar Island in Fiji, experiencing the beating heart of Europe, or innovating with startups in Thailand.
short yet impactful
Summer is the perfect time for a focused, immersive program. In just a few weeks, you can gain international experience, learn new skills, and build your resume without interrupting your academic year.
global connections
Join a community of like-minded peers from around the world while building relationships with locals, professionals, and professors who can inspire your academic and career journey.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands upon which our students are welcomed, recognizing that our experiences are held on their ancestral territories. We deeply respect and honor the enduring cultures and significant contributions of all First Peoples, past, present, and emerging.