This summer, history students had the opportunity to join two different study abroad programs – to China or to Poland.

The Past and Present – Chinese History, Culture, Architecture, and Economy 2025 study-abroad program (May 18 – June 1, 2025) immersed history students in China’s monumental past and rapid modern transformation through site visits in Beijing, Xi’an, Changchun, and Shanghai.

The Documentary Photography and Jewish History in Poland study-abroad program (May 18 – June 1, 2025) offered history students a unique opportunity to explore Wrocław, Kraków, and Warsaw. Students enrolled in courses on documentary photography and Jewish History in Poland.

Each class included a required blog assignment that allowed students to present their photos and their insights on their time abroad. Some of the students’ blogs can be found below.

IU South Bend is planning trips to Germany, Italy, and China for summer 2026. More details will be available by the first week of classes.

Emma in Poland

Mariah on the Arts of China

Maria’s travels

Tanaya on the Power of Relationships

Camani on China Old and New

Madalyn on History in China

Sam & the Wandering Frame

Gabby on Bridging Cultures

Lizzy’s Travel Journal

Course Description: The period spanning 1789 to 1865 arguably remains the most pivotal time in American history. Divisive questions regarding foreign affairs, the frontier, slavery, anti-slavery, a National Bank, the constitutional role of the Presidency, tariffs, states’ rights, Indian relations, and wars all threatened to splinter the Union.  When the dust settled on this scene in 1865, more than 600,000 Americans lay dead, including the country’s first assassinated President.  Yet, the Union had not only survived, but its geographic size had more than doubled, as the nation won its wars and had eradicated slavery.  The U.S. was here to stay, as the nation was now poised to enter what Mark Twain dubbed the gilded age.

Course date and time: Tuesdays and Thursday 2:30pm-3:45pm

For more information: Contact Professor Tim Willig twillig@iu.edu

This summer, Dr. Monica Tetzlaff received a Faculty Research Grant to research Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1963 speech in South Bend and explore how King connected global human rights with local African American activism. Her project highlights the local, national, and international dimensions of King’s civil rights leadership, emphasizing how he tailored his message to specific communities. By analyzing newly available materials—including the full transcript of the speech—she is uncovering how King addressed South Bend’s unique challenges within his broader global vision. Dr. Tetzlaff’s work offers fresh insight into the role of smaller cities in the civil rights movement and deepens our understanding of King’s impact across diverse contexts.

Photo: “The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. poses with the Rev. Charles Rolette, the Rev. Bernard White and another unidentified local minister after speaking at the University of Notre Dame on Oct. 18, 1963.” Photo credit: South Bend Tribune File Photo

Professor Jonathan Nashel, a scholar of U.S. intelligence history, recently completed a Fulbright in Vietnam, where he built strong academic ties with local universities. This summer, he returned to Vietnam to give lectures and help organize an international history conference at Can Tho University. He also gave lectures at Fulbright University and Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City. His current research explores how Vietnamese museums and tourist sites portray national history, offering insight into how historical narratives differ across cultures. Nashel’s international work reflects his commitment to public scholarship and global collaboration. History department members are proud that in 2026, he’ll be honored with IU South Bend’s Distinguished Research Award.

• Reader’s Advisory: create inviting book displays and use library resources to help patrons find their next great read
• Youth Services: assist with story times and play times
• Outreach: work with people of all ages and community organizations
• Programming: implement new ways to foster discovery and learning for library patrons

Ever picture yourself taking the driver’s seat in a time machine? At the RV/MH Hall of Fame  & Museums, every relic has a road story and every exhibit is an invitation to explore the golden era of travel. We’re on the lookout for passionate interns ready to jump in, roll up their sleeves, and help  keep our history roaring.

What’s in It for You?

• Behind-the-Wheel Experience: Get hands-on access to vintage RVs and iconic Mobile/Manufactured homes, think classics like the legendary 1928 Pierce Arrow where you’ll learn the intricate details of design and heritage that have carried travelers across decades.
• All-Around Skill Development: Whether you have an eye for curating exhibitions, a knack for historical research, or even a passion for restoration projects, you’ll gain real-world experience that goes far beyond classroom theory. Your contributions will help bring our exhibits to life and tell captivating stories of adventure and innovation.
• Mentorship & Exclusive Networking: Ride shotgun with experts and enthusiasts who understand the road like no other. Enjoy mentorship from historians, and industry insiders who’ll equip you with the right kind of insider knowledge that can truly jumpstart your career.
• Community & Collaboration: Join a tight-knit team that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the spirit of exploration. This isn’t just an unpaid internship-it’s a chance to be part of a moving story, a community that honors the legacy of travel and design while forging innovative futures.

Fuel your passion and apply today!

Please contact the Museum Director, Jose Rodriguez at museum@rvmhhalloffame.org

Photo credit: Cody York Photography, source