Interview of the Month

Student Studying for 6 Weeks in Antigua

Why did you decide to study abroad? Why did you choose to do it here?
I’ve just finished high school and always felt deeply interested in languages, especially in Spanish, so I decided to become a teacher. Before starting College I thought it would be better for my career to have an experience studying abroad in a Latin American country. Guatemala was my choice mainly because its proximity to the States.

What did you know about Portugal before coming?
Not much. I was mainly attracted to its beaches and forest. It’s quite different from Texas, its weather and environment. I felt it would be a fulfilling experience in every aspect.

What were your thoughts before coming? Were you concerned about anything?
I was mainly worried about not being able to express myself and stay silent in front of other people. Also, it was my first trip alone. Everything was so new, but exciting and challenging.

What was the first thing that caught your attention?
The first thing that caught my attention was the town colonial architecture, with strong remains of ancient times. It was like walking through a city stopped in time, a unique experience.

How did you overcome the cultural shock? What was the most difficult thing for you to get used to?
The hardest thing for me was starting to be fluent with the language; thank God I had hired the 6 week Spanish course that gave me the basic tools to feel confident to speak. Once I started talking, no one could stop me!

Have you gone out? What do you think about the nightlife here?
It has a really picturesque nightlife; every bar is lighted up with candles and they have tables on the streets. People are full of joy and rhythm and they spread it to everyone around. It is a really interesting experience!

Would you recommend this trip?
Of course I would! It was a life-changing experience for me, and I believe it would be the same for anyone!

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