Why did you pick this program?
Megan: I heard about Sustainable Roots from a friend who was one of the very first volunteers for them. I ended up going to visit her during the summer when she was down there. I felt so passionate about the things she was doing and just kept thinking I needed to go back. Within 2 months of being home, I had a plane ticket, a visa, and was ready to go!
What is the most important thing you learned abroad?
Megan: The most important thing I learned abroad (aside from the Spanish language) is that nothing ever goes according to plan, but I know things tend to work out in the end.
What do you tell your friends who are thinking about going abroad?
Megan: I tell my friends who are thinking about going abroad to buy a flight, pack up, and go. It is really quite simple to leave the country... You just have to convince yourself to do it!
What made this trip meaningful to you, or how did this trip change your perceptions or future path?
Megan: This trip actually changed my career choice completely. I was originally going to school to try and get my nursing degree (BSN.) I ended up pursing Paramedic instead, but could not get the idea of working with students out of my head. Somehow random opportunities started showing up because of my language skills (I learned most of my Spanish abroad.) I would get hired for certain jobs most often because I have "speaks Spanish" on my resume. I have now decided to go back to school just to get my teaching license. I am overjoyed with the idea that I get to share my love for the Spanish language and the Spanish culture with students. Ecuador and Sustainable Roots truly formed this love!