Study abroad isn’t only about the places you visit — it’s also about the people who make you feel safe, seen, and supported while you’re there. After spending a month in Cusco, Peru with IPSL Global Engagement, one student (who asked to remain anonymous) wrote a heartfelt message to the local IPSL team just before boarding a flight home.
Her words are a reminder that the quality of a program often shows up in the quiet moments — when you’re exhausted, sick on a long bus ride, unsure what comes next, or simply needing someone reliable at the end of the day.
A note of gratitude from Cusco
Lucas & Franko — now that I’m nearly aboard my flight back to the US, I wanted to give you both my thanks for everything. I’m going home with a deep fondness for Peru, and I’m certain that this is thanks to all the hard work you put into organizing my trip.
Lucas, I want to thank you for being a constant source of comfort during my trip. I always felt assured by you. I spent two hours on the bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco struggling not to throw up, but I didn’t spend a single second in despair. I knew that you would be there at the end to take me home. And of course, you were there as soon as I stepped off the bus.
One of my favorite days was the unplanned hike near the dog shelter. I really enjoyed exploring the area with you, Lucas. On our walk, I asked you a million questions about plants, terrain, and the whole country. You had an answer every time. You’re so thoughtful about your work and the world around you. I am grateful for the time you spent with me.
And Franko, I want to thank you for pulling everything together. I feel that you are the heart of this program. Your love for the community was felt in all parts of my trip. Thank you for sharing that community with me.
This isn’t goodbye! I know that I’ll come back again someday. Peru has a special place in my heart now, thanks to both of you. ☺️
— Anonymous IPSL student, Cusco, Peru
What this message says about a program
A lot of program pages promise “support.” This note shows what support looks like in real life:
- Consistency and reliability (someone is there when things go wrong)
- Local knowledge that goes beyond logistics (learning the place through people who live it)
- Connection to community (not just tourism — relationships)
- Room for unplanned moments (often where the best memories happen)
For students (and parents) evaluating a program, reflections like this are useful because they reveal the day‑to‑day reality — not just the itinerary.
Explore more programs and reviews
If you’re considering a short‑term program in Peru (or elsewhere), use StudyAbroad101’s student reviews to compare what the experience actually feels like on the ground — support, housing, academics, and community engagement.
