Peru study abroad helps students grow

Nine University of North Georgia (UNG) students strengthened their linguistic skills and cultural awareness through a five-week study abroad program in Peru this summer. The experience was part of a partnership with the organization Peru Study Abroad and La Universidad Andina del Cusco.

The students were Lily Dickson, Willow Gray, Anna Mathis, Sebastian Madera, Angela Olguin, Renata Paul-Tafur, Erol Savas, Abbie Tanner, and Ceres Williams.

The students were in a Spanish language immersion class with local professors, a history and politics of Peru course, and an online hybrid class with Dr. Alvaro Torres-Calderon, who led the study abroad and serves as associate department head of Modern Languages and associate professor of Spanish. His course allowed students to reflect on different cultural experiences throughout their time in Peru, such as museums and archaeological sites. They visited the iconic Machu Picchu, the Incan citadel in the Andes Mountains. During their time abroad, they stayed in the homes of their Peruvian host families.

Ceres Williams, a junior from Winder, Georgia, pursuing a degree in international affairs, particularly appreciated the time in a host home.

"We shared everything from lighthearted jokes to meaningful conversations, and they truly made me feel so welcome," Williams said. "Our interactions helped me see the world through a wider lens, and I treasured our time together deeply."

Sebastian Madera, a senior from Talmo, Georgia, pursuing a degree in kinesiology with a health and fitness concentration, said the chance to practice his Spanish was helpful as he plans to become a physical therapist. Madera was able to attend the study abroad thanks to earning a competitive Gilman Scholarship. He was grateful for the interactions with the residents of Peru.

"Being able to tell locals you’re there to study in their country always brings a smile to their face," Madera said. "It brings a sense of pride to your country and theirs, as well as a sense of belonging for you."

Abbie Tanner, a senior from Dawsonville, Georgia, pursuing a degree in marketing with a minor in Spanish, received a Phi Kappa Phi study abroad grant that covered some of the cost of going to Peru. Part of her motivation for attending the program was to be able to communicate better with Spanish speakers at the food bank where she volunteers in her hometown. She came back from Peru with a message for others who are considering study abroad.

"It's the best way to be fully immersed and learn different cultures and languages," Tanner said.

Torres-Calderon enjoyed having a front-row view of the program's impact on students.

"The students experienced remarkable growth. They gained confidence in the language thanks to daily practice and living with host families. They also acquired new vocabulary," Torres-Calderon said. "Culturally, they developed a much deeper understanding of Peruvian history. This gave them a more well-rounded view of the world."

Williams said the learning students experienced in Peru far exceeded what can be gleaned in a classroom.

"If you’re thinking about studying abroad, please don't let nerves or fear of the unknown stop you," Williams said. "These opportunities don't come around often, and I promise that you'll never regret stepping outside your comfort zone to experience something so rewarding."