Why did you choose this program?
I chose Mente Argentina because I saw that they run short term programs and I was interested in a 2 week Tango intensive program combined with culinary studies. I also noticed that they had programs running frequently and would also pair me up with a host family, which is what I was interested in doing so that I could improve my language skills and absorb more of the culture.
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
Mente Argentina found my housing for me, arranged my airport pick up and drop off and scheduled my dance and culinary lessons for me. They made the whole experience seamless and the only thing that I had to arrange myself were my flights to and from Buenos Aires. They sent me my schedule and paired me with the perfect host mom for my needs as well.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
I would advise them to not live alone because the experience is much richer linguistically if you live with a Spanish speaker. I would advise them to become current with regard to the volatile economic situation in Argentina because it can be tricky to access cash due to the current economic circumstances in Argentina. This has nothing to do with the program but it is a piece of advice that I think is important.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
A typical day for me included a private tango class during the day, a group tango lesson at night, a 2.5 hour cooking class at the Gato Dumas Culinary Institute and a home cooked dinner with my host mom. After that, I usually go out tango dancing from about 10 PM until 3 AM. I would go to sleep at about 3:30 am and then wake up at about 9 am and do it all again.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
My biggest fear was personal safety since I was traveling alone. I overcame it by being cautious, being mindful of my environment, not drinking or drugging, not carrying a lot of cash on my person and not walking alone at night. As a result, I did not feel any fear and just remained vigilant and mindful wherever I went.
Write and answer your own question.
I would recommend not waiting if you have the urge to travel. I am so grateful that I did this program at this time in my life and I learned so much in a very short amount of time. I have so many stories to share but I would say that one notable one is experiencing the nightlife and when I say days which is unparalleled and seeing people my grandparents age arriving at milongas at 3 AM and dancing their hearts out until 6 AM on a weeknight.