Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

Being completely honest, I wasn’t sure how impactful my study abroad experience in Puerto Rico would be at first. Since Puerto Rico is politically a U.S. territory but culturally a Caribbean and Latin American country, I wasn’t sure how different it would feel from studying in the United States as a Costa Rican. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Living here has made me fall deeply in love with my Latin American identity, learning how similar and different we are and recognizing the struggles we share. I have developed a level of empathy I never imagined possible. 

Listening to Puerto Ricans speak about their love for their island and their efforts to preserve their culture and identity, even as so many are forced to live abroad, has truly touched my heart. Their stories of resilience, pride, and belonging have helped me better understand the realities of colonialism, migration, and cultural preservation in Latin America. These conversations have pushed me to reflect not only on Puerto Rico’s history, but also on my own relationship with home, language, and community. 

Adjusting to life here has also challenged me in meaningful ways. While I share cultural similarities with Puerto Rico, I have learned that even familiar spaces require humility and openness. I have become more intentional about listening, observing, and engaging respectfully with perspectives that are not my own. This process has helped me become the most genuine version of myself, more self-aware and confident in how I engage with others and the world around me. 

As I approach the end of my semester here, I find myself excited to return to Lake Forest, where I can continue building on this multicultural experience. I look forward to reengaging with our diverse campus community, not only among international students, but also with those whose lives in the United States are shaped by diaspora, migration, and navigating multiple cultural identities. This time abroad will continue to shape how I learn, connect, and lead for the rest of my life. 

Culebrita Playa Tortugas: