When I applied to this program, I didn't yet have a specific reason to live in Santiago, Chile nor did I know much about the culture or the city etc. When I arrived I didn't feel out of place or uncomfortable because of the new foreign environment. In

time I became very comfortable exploring the city by myself or navigating to restaurants to meet with friends. I was nervous about being away from home for so long, but my fellow peers in the program and the program staff were amazing at helping me feel comfortable. Overall, I was very pleased with my time abroad and with all the new information I gained and connections made. I would definitely visit again to explore more of the country and gain more cultural knowledge..

Going to Chile was the best decision I've made as far as my education goes! First of all, there are so many options as far as where you can travel. You can go to the north to the Atacama desert (which is the driest, most arid place on earth and great

for stargazing), Patagonia (which is basically where they take all computer background photos because it is so stunning), you can see many active volcanoes (even hike them if you want!), ski, hike, go to the beach, take wine tours, the list goes on and on. The greatest part about studying abroad in Chile is that you really feel like you get to know the country as a whole. You still have the option to travel to places like Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, etc. but you really could spend a year in Chile and not feel like you've seen everything yet. Santiago is beautiful, there are lots of places to hike, coffee shops to visit, and parks to enjoy. The houses of Pablo Neruda, Gabriela Mistral center, and museums dedicated to the memorial of those lost during the dictatorship are all absolutely worth the trip! I would definitely consider the Santiago, Chile program if you want to go to Latin America!