Why did you study abroad with IFSA-Butler in Mendoza, Argentina?
Laura: I LOVE ARGENTINA! This is the real reason. I already had been to Argentina at an earlier time, and knew I needed to go back again. I hate big cities because they’re stressful and dangerous in my opinion for travellers, so I chose Mendoza which is famous for its wine and mountains and half the size of Buenos Aires.
Also, it’s very close to Chile, which I was hoping to explore a bit. I chose IFSA because it is the only program approved by most colleges that offers something in Mendoza, and it seemed like it was easy to transfer credits (it was). You also have an option of two different universities to take classes in, with Argentineans, so this attracted me as well. I love options!
How has this experience impacted your future?
Laura: This experience led me to move back to Argentina after I graduated in the U.S and start teaching english in Mendoza. It has allowed me to see the daily life of a teacher here in Argentina and compare studying with living, which entails different uncertainties like paying rent, buying groceries, dealing with politics, etc. Also, while I was in Argentina I learned how to be more independent, navigating the public transport system by myself, connecting with new friends and my host family, and taking classes where I don’t know anyone.
I also realized how important program directors are to the life of exchange students, and I am now enrolled in a MS in the U.S for Global and International Education to become a Study Abroad Director to help other students like my directors helped me. My exchange helped me gain the qualities I need like determination, patience, and independence that will help me become a Director.
Academically, I was really challenged by my classes but loved it at the same time. I had great teachers who were really interested in their material, and learned a lot. I had to learn the balance between studying and ‘de-stressing’ by going out or travelling, which is not an easy balance to find.
And personally, well, I guess you could say I made off well; I met my fiance during this study abroad because he was my friend’s host brother and she introduced us. I never thought it would happen, because I didn’t want to be a typical ‘gringa’ who fell in love and had to deal with a long distance relationship after. But we survived that phase, and we’re getting married in May, 2012! I wouldn’t say my experience was typical, but anything can happen! There’s no way I can say this experience didn’t change or form my life, it made me who I am, a traveller and not a tourist.