Uruguay: Montevideo - Spanish Language, Agribusiness, Viticulture, and Gender Studies

I've heard a lot about the experience of studying abroad. They say it introduces you to new people, new places, and new languages. It immerses you in another culture, allowing you to experience it firsthand rather than as a mere spectator. It gifts you with new friends, making it even harder to leave when the time comes to return home. In short, it changes your life. And it's all true. I left with some apprehension but a strong desire to see the world, and I returned home with a suitcase full of unforgettable experiences and memories.

During the four months I spent in Uruguay, I had the opportunity to study at ORT University in Montevideo. I met accommodating and friendly professors who never made me feel out of place or inadequate, even though English is not my native language. During my stay in Montevideo, I was hosted by a very kind lady who welcomed me into her home and made me feel at home. She spoiled me by preparing a different dish for me every day, allowing me to try many Uruguayan recipes.

I was able to travel and see wonderful new places, but the most beautiful thing I brought home were the bonds I formed during this experience. I met fellow travelers who became like family to me during these unforgettable months.

My semester in Montevideo was everything I could’ve hoped for and more! Most importantly, the program and staff are incredible. The teachers and program leaders are helpful, friendly and fun and make a great support system as students navigate living in a different country. More so, Montevideo has a small city feel, a laid back and friendly culture, but plenty of opportunities for fun activities, new hobbies and meeting new people. Lastly, Montevideo provides plenty of opportunities to explore surrounding areas, with Brazil, Argentina and Chile all in reach. I wouldn't change a thing if I could do it over again, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an amazing program.

Estuve en Montevideo, Uruguay cursando dos asignaturas en el intercambio de verano. Un mes fue muy poco tiempo para la experiencia porque se me pasó demasiado rápido. La casa (y la casera), lxs compañerxs y docentes y demás personas que conocí eran muy buenos y me ayudaron en todo lo que necesité. En cuanto al curso, era realmente interesante porque aprendí sobre la situación de las personas LGBT+ y mujeres importantes de UY y latinoamérica. Las horas lectivas estaban bien repartidas entre la clase y visitas a centros/personas de interés.
La vida en Montevideo está muy bien, es tranquila, segura e interesante.

I had the most amazing experience and absolutely fell in love with the city and the culture. The people are super welcoming, the instructors and counselors are helpful and knowledgeable, the city itself has so much to do and it was never a dull day from peaceful walks on La Rambla to really fun clubs in the city! Everything about this experience has helped me learn a lot about the world and about myself. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone every day and I’m so thankful for it because I’ve grown so much as a person. I cannot recommend this program enough!

I have had a desire to study abroad ever since I fell in love with studying the Spanish language in high school. When I got to college, the process of applying and the whole experience seemed overwhelming and I was unsure if I wanted to go through with it. Once I finally decided to move forward with studying in Montevideo, Uruguay, USAC and the Program Staff made everything run smoothly from the moment I applied until I arrived back home at the conclusion of my program. Throughout my semester abroad in Montevideo, my Spanish language skills and cultural awareness grew exponentially. My experience with my host family was amazing - I am so thankful for them! The onsite staff and professors were extremely supportive and always made me feel at home. If you have any desire to study abroad, DO IT! Furthermore, if you are planning to study abroad, I recommend choosing a location that is less popular or well-known. I am so thankful I chose to study in Uruguay because I got to get to know a corner of the world that not many people have. As cliche as it sounds, you will not regret your decision to study abroad!

I absolutely loved my time studying abroad with USAC in Uruguay. I really enjoyed the variety of courses offered, I took a Spanish language course, which was super helpful as I learned the local dialect. I was shocked by how incredible the onsite staff was. I felt so supported by the program directors- they were clearly invested in ensuring we all had the best experience while also giving us the space to explore on our own. I also loved staying with a host family! I felt so connected with the community while I was there.

I absolutely loved my time in Uruguay. I feel like it was the perfect program for me. I got to practice my Spanish and learn about the local agriculture. My program advisors were super supportive, and I felt like I could go to them for just about anything. My host mom was incredible and made me feel like I was at home in another country. I loved learning about a different culture and adapting to a different way of living. I learned so much about the world and myself. I highly recommend traveling to Uruguay.

My experience in Montevideo was a great way for me to practice my Spanish and learn about Uruguayan culture. I had the opportunity to stay with a host mom and 2 other American students, which was one of my favorite parts of the program. I lived only about 15 minutes walking distance from the host university campus. Montevideo is a great cultural center with lots of museums, live music, and soccer games. I always felt safe while walking in the city. If you’re looking for Spanish immersion, it’s a great place to go. Lots of young people know English, but mostly everywhere I went, I had to speak in Spanish. The USAC program is so supportive and the directors and faculty truly want you to have a great study abroad experience. My class sizes were small, so there was a lot of individual attention given to each student. I highly recommend this program to any student that’s looking for a program in Latin America thats unique to the region!