My favorite travel memory was when I went to Ecuador and Peru after finishing my teaching program in Colombia. It was the first time I solo traveled and I was so nervous that I wouldn't meet anyone and spend three weeks alone. I ended up meeting amazing people in each hostel I stayed in, received great recommendations from other travelers, felt a sense of community with other like-minded people, and it ultimately gave me the push I needed to decide that I would move abroad without a plan and see if I could make it work.
Staff Spotlight: Madison Purnell
Title:
Program CoordinatorPhotos
Madison is passionate about cultural exchange, learning languages, and experiencing all that Buenos Aires has to offer. She studied abroad in Buenos Aires during her undergraduate university studies and had such a wonderful experience that she decided to move to Latin America after her graduation. She taught English in Colombia and then returned to Buenos Aires, where she has been since 2018. She loves exploring new restaurants and bars in the city, drinking "mate" in the park, and learning new "porteño" slang.
What is your favorite travel memory?
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
Working with students at Puentes has helped me remember what it's like to be in a new city, new culture, and immersed in a new language once again. I love hearing the students' insights on what they are experiencing and being reminded of all the quirks of Buenos Aires that I've grown accustomed to. Learning how to coach students who may not have previous work experience has been rewarding and helps me analyze my own communication style and ways of working.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
I love to hear when students tell you they now want to become fluent in Spanish or move abroad after graduation. My study abroad experience was what led me to establish a permanent life abroad, which has truly been the best decision I have made. Knowing that you played a part in a student's future plans is so rewarding.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
I would do the In-Person Internship Program in Montevideo! I have only spent one day in Montevideo and would love the opportunity to explore the city and surrounding area more. I'd love to learn more about the intense "mate" culture in Uruguay and reflect on the differences between Argentine and Uruguayan culture, food, and slang.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
Puentes is unique because of the amazing team that we have on the ground. We all love Argentina (or Uruguay) with our whole hearts and souls and that excitement comes through when working with students, housing hosts, and internship site supervisors. We are approachable, empathetic, and always willing to help.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
I think the biggest factor in being a successful company is having a hardworking team who is proactive, collaborative and has a positive attitude. I feel confident that our team at Puentes can handle anything that arises with speed and empathy because we know that we can rely on one another for support.