Alumni Interview with Georgia Green

What inspired you to go abroad?

I am part of a program at my school that requires me to complete a semester-long internship, plus I am a Spanish major, so I thought, "Why not hit two birds with one stone and go to Argentina?" Also, going abroad, or at least off-campus, is highly encouraged at my school, so I always knew I would try to in some way, shape, or form.

Why did you choose Road2Argentina?

Several alumni that I knew did internships with Road in the past, and all had nothing but good things to say about their experiences, so I figured it wouldn't hurt to reach out. Plus, it made it easy since I already had connections and knew I wanted to go somewhere Spanish-speaking. I went into the process really open-minded, not knowing exactly what direction I wanted to take, and Road was really helpful giving me plenty of options and pointing me in a direction that best fit my interests.

What was your favorite part about Argentina?

My favorite part was definitely the Argentine people. They are so lively, friendly, and fun, and they are generally very understanding for those trying to speak Spanish with them. Their demeanor coupled with such a beautiful city and country was fascinating to take in.

What made your experience abroad unique?

While my base was in Buenos Aires, I made an effort to travel as much as I could within the whole of Argentina. Fortunately, Road had ties to a travel agency that made most of my travel plans really easy to navigate and plan, and my coworkers at my internship were really encouraging for me to explore their country. Outside of Buenos Aires, I had the chance to visit six different provinces, all beautiful and unlike the next.

How did local staff support you throughout your program?

I knew if I had any sort of question or concern, I could contact my coordinators, and they would help me in any way they could. I even badly sprained my ankle a few weeks into my trip, and they didn't hesitate to take me to the doctor to get it checked out. They frequently check up to see how things are going, and they also conduct an exit interview at the end of one's program to gather some final feedback. They're great resources but also great friends.

What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?

I wish I would have stepped out of my comfort zone more in terms of practicing my Spanish with more Argentines. My Spanish did improve greatly, and I was fortunate to practice with my really patient coworkers and host parents, but I still believe I could have done more.

Describe a typical day in the life of your program.

I worked at a startup marketing firm/music recording studio in downtown Buenos Aires. I took the bus there every morning and evening, and always ate lunch with my coworkers, only speaking Spanish. Almost every evening, I ate dinner with my host parents, during which we only spoke Spanish as well.

At least once a week, Road hosted in which we'd go to events in the city, go on tours, etc. Examples include a wine tasting, a bike tour, and a graffiti tour! In addition, every Friday we had "Mate y Medialunas," where we would all go to a park, relax, drink tea called "mate" and eat pastries called "medialunas."

What did you enjoy doing in your free time?

Exploring Buenos Aires never gets old. There is so much to see, eat, and do in the city, and even just walking around aimlessly was enjoyable. That being said, traveling outside of Buenos Aires is incredible as well—Argentina is a beautiful country with such a diverse landscape, and there is no shortage of places to go to and explore.

What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?

I lived with a couple in a new, trendy part of Buenos Aires. They were absolutely perfect, pushing me to speak Spanish but also being super patient and helping me out when I needed it. They encouraged me to explore as much as I could, but they were also a very comfortable, relaxing place I could come home to. The location could not have been better either. I could not imagine a better situation than my homestay.

What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?

Your abroad experience is what you make of it! The best thing you can do for yourself is to step outside of your comfort zone and put yourself out there. Explore, learn, interact with locals and take time to reflect on the amazing experience that is living abroad. You'll get out of it what you put into it, and having a positive, curious outlook is key!

Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?

I am more confident in myself and open to others and new experiences than I have ever been in my life. I am now much more comfortable with the unpredictable future and realize the indispensable importance of a positive attitude and outlook, especially when things are scary or difficult. I also see so much value in learning a new language and want to keep practicing and improving it back at home. I also know now that if I could live in another country and city speaking a foreign language, I could live just about anywhere and make the most out of it.

Would you recommend Road2Argentina to others? Why?

100% yes. Road provides the perfect balance of comfort and structure with things like the weekly events and "Mate y Medialunas," while also providing you the freedom to create your own unique program and experience as you see fit. If you have any inkling to go to Argentina, contact Road!