Towards the end of my first semester of Junior year, I received a note from the AGS office that notified me I had been recommended by one of my teachers. to check out a CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) summer study abroad program. Of course, I was really busy with finals coming up, and the basketball season in full swing, so I didn't think much of it. However, once winter break begun, I looked at the possible locations to study at- which there were dozens to choose from. I had always really wanted to become fluent in Spanish so I narrowed my choices down to Spanish-speaking countries. Eventually, I applied to Chile, thinking it would be a long shot to be accepted, and even slimmer chances to afford the trip.
I was wrong.
I was accepted and received a hefty scholarship that allowed me to follow my passion-learning and traveling, something AGS implemented in me.
The trip was life changing in that I recognized the perspective of a Chilean, met kids from all corners of the country, learned the culture of Chile and the Spanish language, conducted service work, and engaged in cultural interaction. I visited Pablo Neruda's homes in Valparaíso and Isla Negra, explored the cerros of Valparaíso, biked in La Serena, played basketball at Maritímo high school, made sopaipillas, and visited La Moneda. I took Spanish classes Monday through Friday, then would go into the community to practice my skills. I lived with a host family and another student in my program. I grew immensely independent as I had to take public transit, make transactions, and ask for directions and help in a different language. Words can't justify the fun and adventure I experienced in Chile. Studying abroad is a truly humbling experience as you know nothing of the customs, and are shell-shcoked by how much faster the locals speak than the recordings in Spanish class. I enjoyed every aspect of Chile, and highly recommend studying abroad, because it is possible, it is fun, and it is affordable.
I was wrong.
I was accepted and received a hefty scholarship that allowed me to follow my passion-learning and traveling, something AGS implemented in me.
The trip was life changing in that I recognized the perspective of a Chilean, met kids from all corners of the country, learned the culture of Chile and the Spanish language, conducted service work, and engaged in cultural interaction. I visited Pablo Neruda's homes in Valparaíso and Isla Negra, explored the cerros of Valparaíso, biked in La Serena, played basketball at Maritímo high school, made sopaipillas, and visited La Moneda. I took Spanish classes Monday through Friday, then would go into the community to practice my skills. I lived with a host family and another student in my program. I grew immensely independent as I had to take public transit, make transactions, and ask for directions and help in a different language. Words can't justify the fun and adventure I experienced in Chile. Studying abroad is a truly humbling experience as you know nothing of the customs, and are shell-shcoked by how much faster the locals speak than the recordings in Spanish class. I enjoyed every aspect of Chile, and highly recommend studying abroad, because it is possible, it is fun, and it is affordable.