How did you decide which country/program to study abroad in?
I decided on the program where I would study abroad based on the offered courses and if they would transfer at all to my Biology degree. I saw a program offered in Ecuador specifically in the Galapagos Islands that focused on the ecology and evolution of endemic species on the islands, which I was highly interested in.
What were you excited about and/or nervous about before your program?
I was nervous before my program that I would experience homesickness and miss my family and friends a lot. I was excited to explore a new country and immerse myself in a new culture different from my own.
What was your favorite place that you traveled to or an activity you did while abroad?
My favorite place that I traveled to while abroad was Isabela Island in the Galapagos Islands, which had beautiful beaches. My favorite activity that I did while abroad was paragliding in Banos, Ecuador.
How do you think the intersections of your identities and values impacted your study abroad experience? Do you have any tips to share with future study abroad students?
I am very adventurous, so I tried many new activities and did many things that I do not have the opportunity to try at home. A tip for future study abroad students is to go with the flow. Life in another country is different from our standards in the US, but being open to try new foods and activities helps with adapting to your new environment.
Could you articulate one personal/professional/academic goal you achieved while abroad?
A personal and academic goal I achieved while abroad was immersing myself in the Spanish language. I was able to learn to communicate well and participate in conversations solely in Spanish, which I have wanted to personally enhance my skills in as it would help me in my future career.
What advice would you like to give to future study abroad students?
My advice for future study abroad students is to get to know others that are abroad in your program with you. Without having gotten to know the people who I went abroad with, I would have missed out on many adventures and activities that I might not have had the courage to partake in if I were alone.
