An Unforgettable Experience in Medellín!

The Urban Transformation course in Medellín was an unforgettable experience that was not only very influential in my studies but was also an amazing life experience. I will never forget the excursions throughout the city, the positive energy, the tropical climate, the delicious food, and all the amazing people I met along the way.

The weekday mornings consisted of lectures on the university campus, but these were not your normal, boring lectures. Rather, imagine yourself feeling the breeze from outside, gazing out the window view of the city and surrounding mountains, learning from very passionate and engaged local professors, and having an occasional dance party to Colombian music! The weekday afternoons consist of site visits and excursions throughout the city. These included walks through many neighborhoods, discussions with community leaders, visits to various library parks and UVAs, and several trips on the integrated public transportation system. Red Tree Study organized may social activities throughout our stay, which were great ways to experience more of the Medellin culture. These included salsa dancing, playing tejo, fútbol games, walking the city streets, and a fun weekend excursion. There is no shortage of things to do and see in Medellín.

Our two coordinators were with us at all times and were there for us if we ever needed anything at anytime. The Red Tree Study staff and the UPB professors really made us feel welcome and at home. It was also great to be with like-minded students from all over the world who brought worldly perspectives from similar but different backgrounds and studies. We still keep in touch and I feel like some lifelong friendships and connections were made. Our hotel accommodation was very nice and conveniently located in a cool area of the city. I felt completely safe and secure the entire time in Colombia.

I really have nothing negative to say about this course, but one recommendation would be to lengthen the course to 3 weeks rather than such an intensive 2 weeks. I would 100% recommend this program to anyone who is looking for an experience abroad that incorporates innovative projects, urban planning, design, and transportation advancements in the transformation of a city. Medellín, Colombia is a prime example of that!