Where Language, Creativity, and Culture Converge
Arts Odyssey Academy is an immersive, arts-based learning program that empowers students through English language development, creative expression, and shared cultural experiences. Our program brings international and American students together in dynamic classrooms and real-world settings, creating meaningful connections through language and the arts.
OUR PROGRAM
"Each one, reach one, each one, teach one"
E
English Classes
A
Arts Courses
C
Cultural Exchange
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Conversational and academic English
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Vocabulary through arts and media
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Confidence in public speaking
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Collaboration across cultures
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Scriptwriting and performance
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Short film production
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Fashion Careers
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Creative writing and storytelling
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Visual and digital arts projects
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Theater
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Learning alongside American peers
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Cross-cultural collaboration
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Shared creative projects
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Global perspectives through local experiences
H
Hands On
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Students practice English through real conversation every day
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Language is learned through theatre, film, writing, and the arts
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International and American students learn together in small groups
Schedule and Courses 2026
15
June
Program Dates
Programs run from late June through August, with start dates beginning the last week of June and concluding by August 11.
Exact dates depend on the length of enrollment.
Academic Classes
All classes are held at
Mercy University – New York City Campus
📍 47 West 34th Street, Manhattan
Student Accommodations
Housing is provided at
Mercy University – Dobbs Ferry Campus
(for students enrolled in residential options)
Program Options
Students may choose from the following enrollment options:
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Courses Only
Instruction in one subject area with daily classes at Mercy University. -
Courses + Excursions
Academic instruction plus supervised cultural excursions. -
Full Residential Experience
Includes courses, meals, cultural excursions, and accommodations at the Dobbs Ferry campus.
01
July
Arts Odyssey Academy – Course Offerings
Immersive ESL (English as a Second Language)
For Multilingual & International Students
Our ESL program focuses on:
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Speaking and listening skills
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Vocabulary development
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Pronunciation and fluency
Courses for English Speakers
Creative Writing & Storytelling
Students strengthen language and expression through:
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Personal narratives
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Scriptwriting
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Creative and expressive writing
Theatre & Performance
Confidence-building courses focused on:
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Acting and improvisation
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Spoken expression
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Voice, movement, and stage presence
Film & Media Production
Students develop communication skills through:
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Filmmaking and visual storytelling
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Camera work and scene creation
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Collaborative media projects
11
August
Arts Odyssey Academy – Course Offering
Immersive Courses
Fashion & Style Studies
Students learn English through:
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Fashion design concepts
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Style analysis and trend exploration
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Visual storytelling and creative expression
Cultural Studies & City Exploration
English practice through:
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Guided cultural excursions
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Experiential, city-based learning
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Real-world conversation and interaction
College Prep & Academic Skills
Designed to prepare students for U.S. academic environments, focusing on:
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Academic English and writing
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Study and organization skills
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Presentations and public speaking
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College readiness and classroom expectations
20
December
Arts Odyssey Academy – Winter Break Program
Barbados Cultural & Creative Immersion
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Location: Barbados
Program Dates: Winter Break (December–January)
Exact dates announced annuallyProgram Length: 1–2 Weeks -
Ages: Middle school, high school, and young adult learn
Course & Activity Offerings
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Film, Media & Visual Storytelling
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Students capture island life through:
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Photography and visual composition
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Short film creation
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Digital storytelling projects
Cultural Studies: Caribbean History & Identity
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Students explore:
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Barbadian culture and heritage
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Caribbean history and identity
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Local music, food, and traditions
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Surf Lessons & Ocean Learning
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Surfing is a core part of the program experience
