What led you to study abroad? Why did you choose your country/program?
I've always wanted to study abroad in Argentina because it's been my lifelong goal to become completely fluent in Spanish, and plus, I am half-Argentinian. The entirety of my dad's side of the family currently resides in Argentina, so Argentinian culture has always been something I hold dear to my heart. Unfortunately I didn't have all the opportunities to become fluent in the language at a young age, so I decided it was necessary to fully immerse myself in the country I consider part of my home. For that reason, I jumped when I saw the opportunity to pursue an internship in Buenos Aires.
Describe a typical day for you abroad.
On a typical day, I'd wake up early and look out the window right next to my bed to watch the city that only recently welcomed me. I'd go to the kitchen in this small three bedroom apartment and greet my host mom, who had set out a plate of toast and a cup of coffee. I'm grateful to have had such a wonderful host mom who I was able to create wonderful memories with. After my morning at home getting ready, I'd take public transportation and either head to my internship or to my class. At my internship, I'd spend ~4 hours helping out with various tasks and duties and then in the evening I would head home, stopping by empanada shops on the way to grab a quick bite. On the days where I had class, I would wake up early to arrive at a common space where a Berkeley professor would lead a lecture all about food - which was awesome! In my free time in between my commitments, I would try to explore new places or restaurants with the friends I made in my program and we'd host study sessions and fun get-togethers. My host mom would have dinner prepared or cooking by the time I'd return and we'd eat, along with my other roommate, while chatting about our days, lives, or the current socio-political situations in the country.
What coursework did you take while abroad? How did courses abroad compare with Berkeley classes?
I had two required classes, one online that dealt with topics of Global Citizenship and the other class in-person that focused more on Argentinian culture, with an emphasis on food and how it creates community and tells stories. I think taking courses while abroad in a foreign country is quite an interesting experience because it allows you to access new perspectives and reflect on your new experiences, especially with how they compare to those of life in the U.S..
Often, studying abroad can influence or shift our understanding of our own identities. How did your experiences studying abroad impact your understanding of your own identities? And/or what lessons did you learn in general related to your identities?
Studying abroad in Argentina allowed me to reaffirm my identity as latina and someone who's cultural roots extend beyond their birthplace. I think my social identity was also impacted greatly because I went into this program knowing no one, so I had to put myself out of my comfort zone in order to make new friends and create connections - which I did successfully! I am very lucky to be able to say I made long-lasting friendships with my fellow students apart of the program. Since Argentina, we have planned various trips in which we all make time to see one another despite living in different sides of the U.S..
What was the most memorable/meaningful aspect of your time abroad?
The most meaningful aspect of my time abroad was/is definitely the beautiful connections I got to form with those around me, be it my friends, my host mom, local street performers. My interactions with these various people in an environment that I did not grow up in left a profound impact on me and the ways in which I view and approach life.
What was the biggest challenge/concern of your study abroad experience? How did you respond?
My biggest challenge was initially finding friends and people I connected with. Truthfully I felt very lonely my first week abroad because I was having trouble establishing friendships with people. But, I persevered through the discomfort and kept an open heart and mind and eventually was able to find a group that I fit right into. After that, it really was just smooth sailing...
What would you recommend to students considering studying abroad, especially if they share similar identities and/or are considering your country or program?
Drop everything and go for it. It will be life changing no matter what. You will discover more about yourself and in the end, be better off for it. If you are lucky enough to have the opportunity to travel and experience new cultures and people, never ever pass it up.
