Abroad in Córdoba, Argentina: July-December 2023

I am originally from Bennettsville, South Carolina, a small town located in the northeast, inland region of SC. When I learned that I studying abroad was a requirement for me as a Spanish major, I was equally as terrified asI was excited for the adventure. Not only was I going to live nearly 5,000 miles away from home, I was going to be in the 2nd most-populated city in Argentina, Córdoba Capital. My biggest fear was being so far away from my family and the support system that I am so lucky to have, here in the States. Thankfully, my new host mother, Mirta Sara, was waiting for me upon my arrival in the local airport. As I began to navigate living in a big city and going to a new school, Mirta, and the rest of my 10-member host family, ended up playing an instrumental role in study abroad experience. As I am writing this, 2 full months after returning from Argentina, I still love reflecting how the infectious love and joy of 10 strangers grounded me, and encouraged me to conquer each new challenge that I faced. 

​

In addition to adjusting to being far away from home, my main goals in studying abroad were native-level language proficiency as well as cultural immersion. I researched and learned that the benefit of studying abroad was gaining independence and a second culture. My favorite quotes was “A man who gains a second language, gains a second heart.” This is certainly true of my experience. I learned about Argentina’s recent history and that from long ago. I learned about Gauchos, milanesa, and siestas.  My time in Argentina taught me valuable lessons beyond language and culture. Every interaction, whether exploring historical landmarks in Córdoba or enjoying traditional dishes like milanesa, became a chance for personal growth and cultural exchange. My study abroad also equipped me with important skills to use in my work back home in the United States. As a Spanish major, becoming fluent was a main goal, and living in Argentina's language and culture scene helped me learn faster. Now with a second heart from language, I feel more sure talking to Spanish speakers and joining various groups.

​

Studying in Córdoba, Argentina was an eye-opener for me in the academic arena, too. My professors had a knack for pushing students beyond the boundaries of conventional style of academic writing. They encouraged us to include our personal flair into our work, and to prioritize creativity and individuality over rigid structural writing styles. I valued this emphasis on personal expression and creativity. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace an unconventional approach to learning. This approach wasn't just limited to literature classes either; it was present in every facet of my academic journey there. And it is a reflection of some of the most precious aspects of Argentine culture. 
Now, as I navigate my academic pursuits, I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned from my time in Argentina. I've become not only a better student but also a more well-rounded individual, thanks to the enriching experiences I had there.

​

But the experience of which I was most pleased was improvement in my Spanish. As a Spanish student, acquiring native-like proficiency was one of my main objectives and studying abroad offered an invaluable linguistic surrounding. Interacting with natives, attending classes at the local university and simply living a life through Spanish made me to leave my comfort zone and perfect the communications skills in this language.

As I head back to Bennettsville, South Carolina now, Argentina will constantly remain in my thoughts as well as a better understanding of myself and increased self-confidence. Certainly, being overseas has developed not only my linguistic potentiality but also widened the scope of thinking and increased respect for different cultures. Consequently, it is thrilling for me to apply these experiences that I had gathered while still living in another country throughout my career’s course such as working with clients who speaks fluent Spanish or integrating cross-cultural competence into other future professional activities.

​

To conclude, studying abroad in Argentina went far beyond an academic experience; rather it was more of a trip to find myself and grow personally. I appreciate having lived and learned in such a lively hospitable nation like this one and will look forward to sharing these tales with people coming from any walk of life both within or without our region.