Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

I am currently studying abroad in Montevideo, Uruguay with the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC). Uruguay is a small country in South America that offers a tranquilo but lively lifestyle. During my time here I’m living with a lovely host family and two other exchange students in the central neighborhood of Pocitos, a ten-minute walk to the beach. I am taking courses in Spanish, including 20^th Century Latin American Short Story and Essay, Latin American Women’s Voices, Intercultural Negotiation, Spanish Composition, and a dance class!  The classes are small discussion-based courses led by local professors that have helped me build my confidence with Spanish exponentially. Outside of class, we spend our time relaxing at the beach, exploring the outdoor pop-up markets called ferias, and eating lots of bizcochos and dulce de leche!

I have had the opportunity to explore beyond Montevideo, including quaint beach towns up and down the coast as well as parts of Argentina and Chile. During our mid-semester break I completed a lifelong dream of mine and spent a week backpacking in Patagonia. I trekked over 40 miles while carrying all my gear in Chile’s beautiful Torres del Paine national park. I couldn’t help but stop every few minutes to marvel at the towering mountains around me. The days were long but incredibly rewarding.

Adjusting to a new culture is never easy, but my experience here has taught me to be more open-minded. The city of Montevideo has offered me so much love and beautiful moments that I will always keep close in my heart. My time here wouldn’t have been possible without Ingrid H. and George L. Speros; thank you for your support! I am incredibly grateful for your generosity that allowed me to have this experience.

On a trek through Torres del Paine National Park in Chile: