A letter to IES Santiago Spring 2023, Thank you.

As my time in Santiago reached its end, I found myself very sentimental.  Upon going to Chile, I had a lot of doubts and questions for myself. I wasn’t sure how I was going to make friends when naturally I am more of an introvert who only has a handful of very close friends. But …

Discovering Marilyn.

Spring 2023 participants: students and professors What can I expect from studying abroad?  Expect the unexpected. Go with an open mind. Have a goal or two to accomplish. Be willing to change your perspective and be surprised.  I knew that studying abroad, I would participate in a program that was well-suited for me, but I …

The Activity That Lives Rent Free in My Memories

Images of street art seen during walks in the city: What are some things to do while abroad? Would I get bored or will I see it all quickly?  You will definitely not get bored or see it all quickly. You will have a lot to explore and will find many things to do during …

Involvement and Immersion with the Local Community!

What are ways to be immersed in the local community? Can you be involved?  The answer to both questions is yes for my study abroad program. Right off the bat, the Spring 2023 students were introduced to “Club Chileno” during our orientation. Club Chileno were local university students who would plan activities, accompany us during …

An insight into the Health Studies Program!

So what is the health studies program?  As I’ve mentioned many times, I studied abroad with IES, specifically participating in their health studies program. I knew that if I got the chance to study abroad, then it would be somewhere in South America. I also wanted to go on a program that felt unique and …

Being a student abroad

So what are classes like abroad? What is the difference to the classrooms at Hope? How will I be able to manage everything that may come with studying abroad while also being a student?  To those who are thinking about studying abroad or preparing for their study abroad program, don’t worry – you can do …

Homestay decision led to a new family

When planning out my study abroad experience, the one question I would constantly be stuck on was, “Should I live with a homestay family or live in the apartment option that IES Santiago offered?” For some background context, at Hope residential life was a huge part of my experience and time while I was there. …

Wait, a month already?!

February 19, 2023 was the day that I embarked on a new journey to study abroad in Santiago, Chile. Excited, anxious, nervous; I really can’t describe the ball of emotions I felt leading up to that day. It wasn’t my first time leaving the country but it was my first time leaving the country for …

Back Home

Although I had a few health issues, my time overall in Chile was amazing. I grew so much as a student, woman, global citizen, and social worker. For future study abroad students or travelers, Chile offers a wide range of adventures. Across the country are numerous natural wonders: the Atacama Desert, National Parks, Andes Mountain …

Art of Chile

After my health scare, I am recovering and have found joy in exploring the city. The IES program was an immersive experience. Whether sitting through classes, developing conversations, or observing everyday life, I was challenged to consider the past, present and future of Chile. My program connected my academic interests to my personal ones. In …