Thinking Beyond Borders Reflection Two Years After My Trip

My gap experience with Thinking Beyond Borders was the best three months of my life, which is still impacting me years later. The conversations, experiences, and thoughts I was exposed to during my time in Latin America was a catalyst for my personal and professional growth. My experience made me more confident, gave me a second family in another country (who I visited and stayed with again upon returning to Guatemala this past summer), provided me lifelong friends and mentors, and introduced me to people who were also curious about similar issues and wanted to ask difficult questions. All my preconceived notions were challenged and my personal philosophy changed on the trip, which has molded me into the person I am today, a person I am proud to be.

If you want to truly learn about the world and yourself and you are willing to put in hard work (because it is hard work), then go on this gap experience. If you want to sit in a circle talking with inspiring people from all walks of life and have the most impactful conversations of your life applying concepts you learn in the classroom and the field, then go. If you see the value in learning from all types of people and situations, then go. You will not regret it and it will be the best decision you ever make. My gap semester encouraged me to embrace my individuality and accept myself for who I am and what I enjoy.