Why did you decide to study abroad with IES?
Chelsea: I choose to study in Argentina because I wanted to do something different than Europe where a lot of people study. I also looked at this experience as an opportunity to do something that I would not be able to do again. I thought, when will I ever be able to live in South America? The chances of going to Europe over South America when I'm older are much higher. I decided to go through IES because they offered much more in terms of the program. They offered internships and had internships focused on service learning. IES also offered a variety of cultural excursions and seemed to make a effort in showing the importance of emerging in the culture.
What made this study abroad experience unique and special?
Chelsea: This study abroad experience was unique for many reasons. IES offered a comfort to all its students that is indescribable, while still giving its students full independence. The students that were in IES were all very fun and interesting people. They all came from very good universities, so it made IES a unique place to study. Argentina has so much to offer that anybody coming will find their niche. Buenos Aires is often referred to as the "Paris of South America" and there was always something to do. Friends would meet in the parks and listen to the music that was playing every weekend or walk around the streets of Sante Fe. Furthermore, you could either hang out with Americans or Argentineans or both. It was very easy to meet locals and locals loved meeting Americans. There wasn't one place that Americans went to like in many cities in Europe. Instead you were in the locals culture which is something every American study abroad student loves. You will not regret studying in Buenos Aires.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Chelsea: My internship through IES was working in Villa 21, which is the slums of Buenos Aires. After working weekly with the youth in the slums and learning about their experience I knew I wanted to do more. I have recently received a nomination for Peace Corps and hoping to be serving come Fall 2013. My experience through IES has encouraged me to continue with my love for traveling and exploring my individuality through new experiences. I have friends who were on my program that are moving back to Argentina and a few other friends who also are in the same position as me with Peace Corps. You learn a lot about yourself while studying abroad and Argentina is a place that you really grow. You have a lot of independence in a huge city. We often said it was like NYC with hispanic culture.