The Experiment in International Living

Summer 2016 was full of many new and exciting adventures for me. I was fortunate enough to travel abroad to Peru for four weeks with the program Experiment in International Living. I joined a group of 14 other diverse students and two amazing group leaders from all over the US as we explored, observed, and learned the history and culture of several parts of Peru. During this time, we stayed in numerous hotels and hostels along with spending two weeks with a local homestay family in Trujillo. We saw many ancient ruins, museums, performances of traditional dances, played with children, painted a soup kitchen, hiked Machu Picchu and many many more places and things. I could tell the planning of these activities were quite thought out as everything when smoothly throughout the trip despite the ‘Peruvian time’ our tour guides were on. My group leaders were very open and welcomed each member of our group allowing us to feel very comfortable. Within 3 days of being with my group, I felt like I had known them for a month. From students arriving late to the airport to homesickness they handled each situation with ease and grace. Traveling to Peru meant a lot to me as I love attending summer programs and traveling, so being able to combine them was really awesome. As one of my group leaders would say "there is beauty in everyone and everything" and I was able to really learn and embrace that statement. I was also able to improve my Spanish as well as my confidence in speaking and asking for help when I did not understand something. Overall, I learned a lot about myself and developed an eagerness for new adventures. I learned to go with the flow, work with a new team, and just have fun. Coming back to the US, I have embraced the little things and have been utilizing everything I learned. I have a new perspective and sense of openness. I loved my trip to Peru and would definitely do it again in a heartbeat. I highly recommend Peru and any other Experiment programs!

Before Nicaragua and Cuba, I knew I was never really immersed in culture. Although I live in New York, which is considered a well-known "melting pot", I knew I was missing something. During the summer of 2015, I discovered the missing ingredients when I was abroad in Cuba and Nicaragua. Although the program had the intended lesson of 'Art and Social Change', it was so much more than that; I was living in culture, history, art, and in a new environment with new friends and family, that is my host families. I was speaking the language and learning the history that made the people who they are today. Truly, the program opened my eyes because although it is acknowledged that there is a whole world beyond where the individual lives, thinking about it is drastically different than living in it. With this program, I was given a new set of lenses, as I came back, not only with lasting memories but with a new look at things from different cultural perspectives.

I'm not the most open person. I keep to myself. I'm not really a people person. I'm the quiet kid in the back of the classroom that has his head stuffed in books about animals around the world. But being a part of The Experiment opened my eyes in a way I thought I'd never be able to. I made new friends and met the most inspiring people in a place I never thought possible. I honestly chose this program because I wanted to see exotic African wild life. I did have that experience but the best part of The Experiment was getting unbelievably close to my group. Being able to open up and not just be some tourist but actually be welcomed into the homes and be part of the local community. They accepted us and included each and every one of us. We formed bonds that will be part of us for the rest of our lives. I'm so glad I didn't let my fear of the unknown hold me back. Because I in fact did have a lot fun and an experience that I wouldn't trade for anything.