I was paired with a civil organization in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I worked with a close-knit team that tackled diversity issues and training in corporate and school settings. Most of my work included attending and brainstorming during team meetings, editing training materials, and assisting during school visits. While I was abroad, I completed a separate research project regarding healthcare access. Upon my return I spoke to one of my professors about this experience and how I enjoyed carrying out this ethnographic research. From there, the professor asked if I wanted to gain hands-on experience by completing IRB approved research, and I was able to carry out an independent research project.

Health access and diversity work are still near and dear to me, and I am able to directly carry lessons I learned from my independent research and internship with me. Not only was I able to solidify my Spanish speaking skills, but I learned more about gender neutral language in Spanish, a concept I had little knowledge of before my internship.

My advice for those considering or are in the process of making their study abroad experience a reality consists of two things: 1) Apply to all the scholarships you can. If you are worried about the financial aspect, that is valid, but usually can be worked around with enough preparation. 2) You get back what you put into the experience. Do you feel you’re not being given enough work? Ask for more. Does someone have a job you’re interested in? Ask for an informational interview. Want to meet the locals? Learn about what is popular in your area and make the effort to go and talk to the people there. This experience can definitely help you further your education or career, but it is also an opportunity for fun experiences and personal growth.