Get to know more about yourself

Connect with others

Develop valuable skills

Create positive impact


We believe that all students, regardless of socioeconomic background, should have access to transformative education. 

For this reason we have designed two programs to empower Portland area, Pell-eligible college students to reach their full potential.

During our year-long mentorship programs our students:

  • Receive personal, logistical and academic support

  • Practice experiential education (learn hands-on instead of in a classroom)

  • Travel to one of four regions of the world (Central America, West Africa, South America, or Asia)

  • Earn College Credit

  • Build long lasting friendships and life changing experiences


We provide financial support and help you navigate scholarship application processes so that finances aren’t an obstacle. Our goal is to make this experience as affordable as possible.

Want to learn more about which of our travel locations might be right for you? Click below to take our brand new quiz, and find out which country best fits your interests!

Our programs consist of 3 phases

1. Preparation and scholarships

Learn about travel logistics, deepen your understanding of the country you are going to, get to know your companions and apply for scholarships to cover your expenses.  

2. International experience

Live with the locals, learn another language, serve the community, develop leadership and get to know more about yourself while traveling with our partner, Carpe Diem Education.

3. Post-travel engagement

Return home, finish coursework and integrate your international experience by engaging with the Portland Community via internships and volunteer projects.

 

OUR PROGRAMS

Carpe Mundi has two programs, Carpe College and PDXchange. Both programs are a year-long experience with many of the same components, read below to find out the slight differences between our programs, and find out how you can apply!


Eligibility Requirements

  • Eligible for the Pell or Oregon Opportunity Grant

  • Residence in the greater Portland Metro area 

  • When applying, be a senior in high school or a first-year college student (so that when you’re participating in the program you are in your first or second year of college)

  • Plan on attending any greater Portland area community college or PSU during the 2024-2025 school year

Application Deadline 

We are currently accepting applications for our 2024-2025 programming! Applications for both programs are accepted on a rolling basis, meaning the sooner you get your application in, the more likely you are to be accepted.  The application deadline is May 15th.

OUR PARTNERS

Carpe Mundi wouldn’t be possible without the support of the following partners:

Carpe Diem Education: While students receive mentorship and support from Carpe Mundi in Portland, they are also Carpe Diem Education students while traveling. Carpe Diem offers a variety of gap year education opportunities for students interested in exploring opportunities outside of the traditional classroom. They organize dynamic, fast-paced adventures in regions around the world to help facilitate higher learning and personal growth. These programs incorporate language learning, homestays, and volunteer projects to provide a more well-rounded learning experience.

Where There Be Dragons: As of 2022, Carpe Mundi students can also travel on a Where There Be Dragons program. For decades Where There Be Dragons has offered an alternative to mainstream travel and tourism. Discover the rare opportunity to slow down, experience the day-to-day life of the communities we visit, and get a sense of what it is like to live somewhere else. Immerse yourself in Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the United States.

Portland Community College Education Abroad: The majority of Carpe Mundi students are Portland Community College students. The PCC Education Abroad office is another resource and support as students are considering studying abroad during college.