Liberal Arts Major: International Politics
Minor: Business in the Liberal Arts, Dispute Management Resolution, and Global and International Studies
Hometown: Redlands, California
Experience Time: Spring 2020
Give us a brief summary of your experience.
During the spring of 2020 I was fortunate to attend IES Barcelona and experience a one of a kind study abroad program. I was able to make the most of my time buy embedding myself in the culture of the city and the region of Catalunya by doing a homestead, attending classes at a prestige university, and constantly interacting with the locals and discussing issues that affect the city and the regions (topics included the immigration issue of Europe, the independence movement, and gentrification of the city).
How did this experience impact you academically?
The biggest impact this program has had on me is to inspire me to look into continuing my education abroad through graduate programs offered by universities not only in Spain but across the world. To be able to get a global perspective and an education is second to none. This program allowed me to explore opportunities I never could have imagined.
"The biggest impact this program has had on me is to inspire me to look into continuing my education abroad through graduate programs offered by universities not only in Spain but across the world."
How will this experience impact your career goals?
This experience gave me more reasons to pursue my interest in labor and immigrant issues. Growing up Latino in California, these social issues were at the forefront of my daily life. However, I never thought these same issues could affect more than one place. Now knowing I can do my work in other parts of the world gives me all the reason to consider pursuing these issues as a career.
How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?
The College was gracious enough to assist me in the process of getting to Barcelona. I was supported by my advisors who helped me pick out my courses. I also had help from the College in the form of funding which eased the financial burden of studying abroad.