Interview
What words would you use to describe your identity/identities?
I am a first-generation Mexican-American and first-generation college graduate. I was also the first in my family to study abroad, and traveling has formed a huge part of my identity since.
What motivated you to choose to study abroad?
I honestly just wanted to get to know a new place. I was interested in learning about a new culture and thought that Spain would be ideal in helping me develop my Spanish as well.
When you studied abroad, did your identity(ies) influence your experience in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?
Yes! It was a goal of mine to get to know and interact with locals and that is why I chose to live in a residence hall where about half the students were American, and the other half were Spanish. Having been raised in a Spanish speaking household, I spoke it fluently and I was surprised to discover how much easier that made it for me to make friends with the Spaniards, as opposed to some of my American friends. Along the same lines, most of my Spanish friends saw me purely as Mexican and didn't really associate me with the United States.
And vice versa, when you studied abroad, did your experience influence your identity(ies) in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?
Yes, I've always felt a very strong tie to my Mexican roots and often identified myself as Mexican rather than American or even Mexican-American. I have always been proud of my Mexican culture and incorporated the food/music/language in my everyday life, but because I felt so at home in Granada, my sense of style, vocabulary, and even taste changed dramatically. I am still very proud of my Mexican roots and they are still very relevant, but I was surprised at how much I incorporated Spanish cultures and customs into my life.
Has studying abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path? If so, how?
Prior to studying abroad, I wanted to major in accounting and work at a public accounting firm. Although that didn't immediately change upon my return, my experience abroad set the path for my "Gap Year" working at a high school in Madrid, which then prompted my career change into International Education.
What experiences or skills gained from studying abroad continue to influence your life now?
I find that my time abroad is relevant EVERY SINGLE DAY. It allowed me to discover my love for traveling, which I try to do as often as possible; it connected me with people I am still friends with, and it allows me to do my job effectively when I am advising students about what to think about when considering different study abroad programs.
In one sentence, tell students who identify similarly why studying abroad is a good idea, particularly for them.
I think as Latinx individuals, a lot of us don't have a ton of people to look to for guidance on going abroad, but that is why we can take the initiative to do that for others. Don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone and be 100% open to new experiences; having a set of expectations can keep us from enjoying the opportunities in front of us!
Share one of your favorite memories from your time abroad.
There was a tiny crepe shop owned by a French couple close to where I lived and after stumbling upon it and falling in love, I took my new Residencia friends there and devoured my crepe in approximately 60 seconds.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Somebody once told me that it is not enough to appreciate the beautiful customs we learn from other cultures, we must carry them with us and share them with others; if we bring aspects of what we liked and carry them out wherever we go, it will allow us to miss that place a little less.