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CONTACT AN AMBASSADOR - AMERICAS

BELIZECallie Ingram Coastal Studies in Belize- Faculty-Led Short-Term Spring 2019

Studying abroad allows students to immerse themselves in new cultures that will then instill new interests that they will carry for the rest of their life. My favorite experience while I was in my host country was snorkeling the Great Blue Hole on the Lighthouse Atoll. I had the opportunity to snorkel with black tip reef sharks, and see midnight parrotfish feeding. It was the best snorkeling experience I have

ever had!

Kaitlyn Lowrance Belize Archaeology Field School – Faculty-Led Summer 2017

The Belizean culture is a rich blend of Indigenous, European and Caribbean, which can be seen in the art, architecture, and in the food. 17th century British colonizers built many of the canals that flow along the main. Belize is a smaller country, we visited the Mayan site of Xunantunich, went zip lining, and cave tubing in just one day in central Belize.

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CHILE Kelly Heimann Chile Summer Study Abroad – Faculty-Led Summer 2018

Other students should study abroad in my host country because within its boundaries are a multitude of different landscapes and cultures. In one trip studying in one country I was able to see the big Santiago city lifestyle, more laid-back beach living in Viña Del Mar, the sites and living in San Pedro de Atacama, and the snow covered Andes mountains. With all of the different

terrains within one country it give so much more of a variety and eye-opening experience to learn about the development of the places, see their natural beauty through mini trips, as well as attend a Chilean University getting a formal education.

Abigail Hawkes Chile Summer Study Abroad Summer 2018

I simply do not have the words to express how grateful I am for my study abroad experience. From hanging out with the local Chilean students, to skiing down the slopes of the Andes Mountains, I have made memories that I will hold near and dear to my heart for as long as I will live. From the moment I

landed in Chile and met up with my faculty-led group, I knew that I had made friendships that would last a lifetime. Every day in Chile brought me absolutely priceless and memorable experiences. While studying abroad, every day was my favorite day.

Rachel Hawkins Chile Summer Study Abroad Summer 2018

Study abroad is an experience like no other. It's new, it's exciting, but mostly...it's challenging. Everything is an adjustment and you learn to adapt to any situation you may come across. Studying abroad is enriching because it pushes you to do things you may not be fully comfortable with, and ultimately it

helps you grow. If anything, you will come back with a new sense of independence and confidence you never knew you could have developed. Similarly, the people you meet will always be one of the highlights no matter where you may choose to study. Living with a host family gives you insight of what real Chilean culture can be like, and I think it definitely enhanced my study abroad experience.


















Lydia Cook ISA Veritas Christian Study Abroad & Missions: Valparaiso, Chile: Spanish Language & Latin American Studies Spring 2019

While studying in Chile, I was specifically part of the Veritas Christian Study Abroad program, under ISA. I found this program to be specifically enriching as a Christian because allowed me to experience the realities of life as an International Missionary and believer living outside of the privileges of Western culture. One of my favorite parts of living in Chile was the process of building relationships with my host parents, Max and Orietta. Sitting down with them over

'once' (an evening tea-time that replaced dinner), lunch, or simply helping in the kitchen and learning about their lives, beliefs, interests, and passions helped me understand my host culture in a deeper way.

Cayley Pinson AIFS Study Abroad in Vina del Mar: Semester or Academic Year Spring 2019

For me, seeing life and learning from a perspective different than my own made me self reflect and steered me towards my current life path. The most important part of my study abroad experience was being fully immersed in a new culture, from living with a Chilean family and going to a Chilean university

to traveling and everyday life in Vina del Mar! My favorite place in Chile was PucÃ³n, a small adventure town located several hours south of my host city Vina del Mar. PucÃ³n was incredible because of its natural beauties, including Volcano Villarrica, black sand beaches, hot springs, and National Park Huerquehue. While visiting, we also enjoyed talking with locals and enjoying their unique culture.















COSTA RICA

Ra H ISA San Jose, Costa Rica: Spanish Language, Liberal Arts & Environmental Studies Fall 2018

Going abroad is an opportunity that everyone should take advantage of. By going abroad, you have the opportunity to see the world. Not only did I learn about the culture of Costa Rica but also culture from the states and all over the world. My favorite activity to do was go on weekend surf trips to beaches along the Pacific and Caribbean side. Santa Rosa National Park is by far my favorite beach. Less

people ad more in touch with nature

Kaylee Market PED 101: Physical Activity and Wellness- Yoga and Outdoor Adventures in Nicaragua and Costa Rica Short-Term Spring 2018

While we were in Nicaragua many of us were able to pick up even small Spanish words that could help us when talking to the natives. The best part of Nicaragua is that it is it is not a popular destination, it is one of the least traveled destinations and that allowed us to immerse ourselves in the culture

and language. The most enriching part of my study abroad experience was just being able to watch the locals and how they live such clean lives off the land and the sea. They are so grateful for what little they have and what little they get it brought an overwhelming sense of gratefulness for what I have in my life.

Lauren Inness PED 101: Physical Activity and Wellness- Yoga and Outdoor Adventures in Costa Rica and Nicaragua Short-Term Spring 2018

I spent my freshman spring break in Nicaragua and Costa Rica completing the lab requirement of my PED 101 through activities such as daily yoga, horseback riding, hiking, and salsa dancing. Through this experience, I was

able to go out of my comfort zone, see new countries, and try new food while having the comfort of being part of a group led by faulty. I learned from my experience that I do want to go abroad again and explore new countries and other foreign foods. My favorite experience was horseback riding in Nicaragua where we witnessed the incredible beauty of the country, from the beaches to the mountains. As we were returning the horses, we were treated to a magnificent sunset on the beach. These are memories that I will treasure forever.


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Lindsey Aubuchon Happiness Emphasis – Honors Seminar in Costa Rica Faculty-Led Short-Term Spring 2019

Over the summer, I studied in Costa Rica on a short-term program. While there, I spent most of my time in a portion of the country known as the Nicoya Peninsula. This part of the country is known for the longevity and happiness of the lives of its people. I was there to understand why these people live such fulfilling lives, while also experiencing their way of life. Because of my experiences in Costa Rica, I have learned a lot about a new culture, practiced my Spanish speaking skills, and discovered specific areas of my own life which I could improve upon to live more

like the Costa Rican people, increasing both my physical and mental wellbeing.

Meagan Colston Happiness Emphasis – Honors Seminar in Costa Rica Faculty-Led Short-Term Spring 2019

Here in the US, we focus on materialistic items and seeing who has the most and the best. In Costa Rica, they do the opposite. They may not have the best car, house, etc. However, if they have their family, friends, and relationships that's all that matters. I started to live more in the moment and worry less about what seemed to be a downgrade of living conditions (ex.

Not the best air conditioning or WiFi). I realized that those things had no importance compared to the interactions I was having with the citizens of Costa Rica.

Desmyn Stevenson AIFS Study Abroad in San Jose Spring 2019

I have a single mom and I never thought I would be able to study abroad, but it is so affordable and introduces you to a new culture. Studying abroad changed my life and allowed me to appreciate every aspect of the student experience. Studying abroad in Costa Rica allowed me to learn a new language and inspired me to double major in Spanish and Psychology. Costa Rica is the perfect place to study abroad because the culture is so rich that it is almost impossible not to enjoy every moment of it. My favorite experience while studying abroad was releasing sea

turtles into the ocean. I've always been passionate about conservation and being able to release sea turtles that are endangered into the ocean was so surreal. During my time in Costa Rica, I released about 60 sea turtles. It feels amazing to know that I was able to make such a huge difference in the world.

ECUADOR











Isabelle Chan Univ. San Francisco de Quito- GAIAS Spring 2018

Ecuador is an amazing country with such a variety of activities to do. It's one of the most biodiversity countries in the world and has mountains, the coast, the Amazon, and the Galapagos to visit. I loved traveling to different regions when I had free time, but I also loved the culture. Staying with a host family was an

amazing opportunity. I learned how to cook traditional Ecuadorian dishes and practiced my Spanish. For being such a tiny country, Ecuador has so many wonders to explore and this country is a great fit for students who want to experience a different culture and take part in many incredible adventures.

Francesca Jauregui Univ. San Francisco de Quito (USFQ)- Direct Partner Fall 2018

Studying abroad in Ecuador was one of the best experiences I could have given myself; it helped me learn more about myself and provided me with so many unique experiences. Living with a host family that welcomed me with open arms definitely made my Ecuadorian experience easier. Not only did I improve my Spanish, but I was given an immediate support system that made my experience unforgettable. For students seeking adventure, enriching cultural experiences, and to better there Spanish speaking skills I highly recommend studying in Ecuador

Leah Palian Tropical Ecology and biodiversity in Ecuador – Faculty-Led Summer 2016

Ecuador was absolutely beautiful! As a biology major, I was able to receive 6 credit hours for performing tropical research over two weeks in the summer. The mountain ranges and waterfalls are experiences you can’t receive

elsewhere. Wild horses roamed the fields, and rainbow birds soared over the treetops.

PERU John Fischer ISA Lima Peru: Business, Spanish Language & Courses with Locals Fall 2018

After traveling abroad I realize that people from all over the world are not that different from the people in the U.S. Conversing with internationals and realizing what makes us alike as well as different made for some of the most interesting and most eye-opening conversations I have ever had. Studying abroad pushed me to get out of my comfort zone and I truly believe I have grown as an

individual from doing so. Getting to study abroad in Peru was one of the greatest experiences of my life. The country was full of life, culture, and natural beauty. Everyone can cure their itch for adventure here with fun activities like hiking, white-water rafting, quad trails, and even bungee jumping. The culmination of people, places, and opportunities I had in Peru made for a truly unforgettable life experience.














Natasha Pate ISA Lima, Peru: Business & Latin American Studies Courses with Locals - Semester/Academic Year Fall 2017

Hiking to Laguna 69 in Huaraz, Peru was the most breathtaking experience during my semester, both figuratively because of the incredible contrast

between the icy blue and teal tones of the glacial lake and the stark grey cliffs behind it and literally because it had an altitude of over 15,000 feet. It was an extremely challenging hike but the view was unforgettable.

URUGUAY Clare Bachman ISEP in Uruguay- Universidad Catolica del Uruguay, Montevideo Fall 2018

Montevideo, Uruguay is a safe, but small city that is packed with life and over half of the country's population. Uruguay is one of the most progressive countries in South America and it is extremely easy to travel around the rest of South America from Montevideo. As a soccer fan, my favorite experience in Uruguay has to be when I was able to go to El Clascio, the most anticipated soccer match of the year within Uruguay. The energy within the stadium was unparalleled to any football or basketball

championship I have ever attended, and I am glad that I had the opportunity to take part in the tradition.











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