Esto no es un adiós Perú. Ancient and Contemporary Cultures Past Review

By (GHS) - abroad from 07/04/2016 to 08/01/2016 with

The Experiment in International Living - Extraordinary High School Summer Abroad Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
One of the best experiences ever!

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Summer 2016 was full of many new and exciting adventures for me. I was fortunate enough to travel abroad to Peru for four weeks with the program Experiment in International Living. I joined a group of 14 other diverse students and two amazing group leaders from all over the US as we explored, observed, and learned the history and culture of several parts of Peru. During this time, we stayed in numerous hotels and hostels along with spending two weeks with a local homestay family in Trujillo. We saw many ancient ruins, museums, performances of traditional dances, played with children, painted a soup kitchen, hiked Machu Picchu and many many more places and things. I could tell the planning of these activities were quite thought out as everything when smoothly throughout the trip despite the ‘Peruvian time’ our tour guides were on. My group leaders were very open and welcomed each member of our group allowing us to feel very comfortable. Within 3 days of being with my group, I felt like I had known them for a month. From students arriving late to the airport to homesickness they handled each situation with ease and grace. Traveling to Peru meant a lot to me as I love attending summer programs and traveling, so being able to combine them was really awesome. As one of my group leaders would say "there is beauty in everyone and everything" and I was able to really learn and embrace that statement. I was also able to improve my Spanish as well as my confidence in speaking and asking for help when I did not understand something. Overall, I learned a lot about myself and developed an eagerness for new adventures. I learned to go with the flow, work with a new team, and just have fun. Coming back to the US, I have embraced the little things and have been utilizing everything I learned. I have a new perspective and sense of openness. I loved my trip to Peru and would definitely do it again in a heartbeat. I highly recommend Peru and any other Experiment programs!

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Hotel
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Travel
  • Culture
  • Friends
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Nothing- I am glad I went into the program as I did.