Study Abroad

As a requirement for my major, I had the opportunity to study and intern abroad in the spring of 2024. The choice was between Argentina and Spain, and while all of my friends chose Spain, something about Argentina called to me. I was drawn to the unfamiliar—the challenge of experiencing a culture so different from my own and the idea of stepping out of my comfort zone. Spain would have been amazing and is somewhere I aspire to travel, but I felt that was a trip I could take at any point in my life. Having never been abroad before, I was both excited and nervous, knowing this experience would force me to grow as an individual. I departed for Córdoba, Argentina, in February 2024, and it was a decision that changed my life forever.

 

Upon arrival, I quickly realized how challenging yet rewarding this journey would be. My minimal Spanish skills made everyday interactions difficult, and I was thrown into a completely new world. One of the most stressful moments came as soon as I stepped foot in South America at the Lima, Peru airport. I was approached by men claiming to be airport staff, demanding to see my passport. My gut instinct told me something was off, and after an unsettling exchange, a flight attendant helped me safely to my gate. I was distraught that this was my first experience in South America.

 

Once in Córdoba, I was greeted by my host mother, Silvia, who welcomed me into her home. I stayed with her from mid-February until the end of June, attending classes at Universidad Blas Pascal and completing an internship with Silvina Ledesma, a local fashion designer. In addition to Córdoba, I traveled to Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Jujuy, Uruguay, and Brazil, experiencing the diverse regions of South America.

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I lived with a family who spoke no English, which forced me to improve my Spanish quickly. The language barrier, while initially difficult, turned out to be one of the greatest learning experiences. It was true what they say—you truly learn a language when you are immersed in it. My host family, Argentine culture, and interactions with locals pushed me to improve my communication skills beyond what I had anticipated.

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One of the most striking cultural differences I encountered was Argentina’s communication style. Argentinians speak with immense passion and emphasis, which can come across as aggressive or intense to someone unfamiliar with their culture. I had to adjust to this dynamic and quickly realized it wasn’t hostility—it was simply the way they express themselves. Another cultural norm I had to adapt to was the lack of personal space. Argentinians often greet one another with a kiss on the cheek, which felt strange at first, but by the end of my time there, it felt entirely natural. This openness and warmth were consistent across various social interactions, making me feel welcomed and part of their culture.

 

Moreover, Argentina operates on a more relaxed sense of time. What I learned as "6 PM" for dinner was often more like 7:30 or 8 PM in reality. This flexibility was in stark contrast to the punctuality I was accustomed to in the U.S. Similarly, casual wear was uncommon in public spaces. Instead, people dressed in a more presentable manner every day, even for classes. This change in dress code encouraged me to hold myself more accountable, and I found myself taking greater pride in my appearance.

 

One of the most profound experiences I had was bonding with my host family. The close-knit nature of their relationships, particularly their tradition of gathering for an asado (barbecue) every weekend, was something I cherished deeply. I was so appreciative of how, as soon as I arrived in Argentina, I was embraced as part of their family. It was these moments that made me realize the true value of human connection and how important it is to share experiences with loved ones. This experience also helped me feel more integrated into Argentine society, and I began to view myself not just as an outsider but as someone who had become part of this beautiful culture.

 

My time abroad was not without its challenges. During my travels to Uruguay, my Airbnb was broken into. However, this journey, with all its highs and lows, taught me how strong I really am. The difficult moments made me resilient, and in hindsight, I realized that I had underestimated my own abilities.

 

Reflecting on my time abroad, I realize how much this experience has shaped me both personally and professionally. It reinforced my adaptability, resilience, and cultural awareness—qualities that are invaluable in any career, especially in international business and fashion. I now have a deeper appreciation for global perspectives and the ways in which culture influences communication, work ethic, and creativity. Studying abroad was more than just a requirement for my major; it was a transformative journey that broadened my horizons and gave me the confidence to explore new opportunities in my future.