Justine Dale of Reno, Nevada attended a Spanish & Medicine program in Cusco, Peru.
This was her first experience alone outside of her hometown, and she recounts her eye-opening experiences (all of which began when she googled her homestay address before attending!).
Justine has remarkable advice for those who may be scared when it comes to attending an immersion program abroad and some good tips for making the most of class time and the weeks in Peru.
0:12 – Justine’s background
0:55 – Spanish & Medicine program after high school Spanish
1:32 – Measure of Spanish learning & experiencing different diseases
2:02 – Accommodations in a rough area?
3:00 – Staying with classmates
3:17 – New teacher & new topics each week
4:20 – Poor hospital & clinic experiences
5:12 – No more shiny hospitals & care quality disparities
6:01 – Forcing herself out of her comfort zone
6:51 – New close friend, even post-program
7:14 – Brief assimilation into Peruvian culture
8:06 – Peruvian pilgrimage
9:10 – Smaller excursions & activities around Cusco
10:20 – Difficulties with pronunciation
11:18 – What is better for those who are scared & uncomfortable?
12:00 – Vale la pena