Why did you choose this program? As an aspiring physician, I wanted to participate in a program that allowed me to gain first-hand experience in the medical field. Through this program, I was able to shadow physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals while becoming more fluent in Spanish at the same time. I also wanted the chance to immerse myself in a completely different culture. By studying abroad in Santiago, Chile, I was able to adapt to another way of life.

Describe your favorite classes abroad. Through my study abroad program, I was enrolled in two courses -- Spanish for Healthcare Professionals and the Clinical Observation Internship program. Through the internship, I gained experience by shadowing in various medical fields including emergency medicine, general surgery, and pediatrics. The Spanish class allowed me to expand my vocabulary of medical terminology and to communicate more effectively with Chilean patients and healthcare professionals.

What advice would you like to give to future study abroad students? I would recommend that students do everything they possibly can while studying abroad.  Definitely speak the language of the host country as much as possible and make connections with the people you meet. This will allow you to become more immersed in the culture.  

Discuss the following: Going abroad vs. staying on campus. IU is absolutely beautiful, and I'm proud to be a Hoosier, but it's important to expand your horizons. I'd recommend studying abroad to all students.  While you may not have the same comforts of living, studying abroad gives you the chance to explore the world and to find yourself.

What fact about your host country do you think people would be surprised to learn? It's surprisingly cold in Chile during the winter. People may think that South America is warm year-round, but it isn't at all.  The lack of central heating systems in houses doesn't help either. Still, with some warm blankets, I was able to manage quite well.

How did you find scholarships for study abroad? I was able to find scholarships through the IES website and also through the Herbert Presidential Scholarship.