USAC Chile: Santiago-Latin American & Anthropology Studies

My experience immersing myself in the Cono Sur was truly beyond anything I had ever imagined. Although I had read extensively about the region's challenges and history, nothing could compare to walking the very streets leading to the Palacio de la Moneda, where Allende delivered his final words, or visiting Isla Negra, where Pablo Neruda penned his famous poems. Seeing the beautiful Viña del Mar, a city I had only seen on TV during the renowned festival featuring my favorite Latin American artists from the '90s, was a dream come true. Participating in the student movements and walking alongside college students protesting for their rights in Plaza de los Héroes made my summer unforgettable. USAC provided not only engaging coursework but also deep insights into cultural landmarks. Our close-knit cohort thoroughly enjoyed both the nightlife and the well-planned excursions, which were meticulously detailed and enriching. This experience taught me valuable life skills, such as adapting to a new country where high expenses meant learning to use electric blankets instead of a central heating system, and navigating sensitive political discussions tactfully. These soft skills proved invaluable later in my career at the United Nations, where I find common ground with colleagues from Santiago. It's always a pleasure to reminisce about drinking a terremoto with French fries while listening to Los Prisioneros and savoring a famouse cazuela at the Mercado Central. This journey not only broadened my horizons but also fostered meaningful connections and unforgettable memories. These experiences not only enriched my understanding of Chile but also helped build connections and relate to others in meaningful ways.

it was an interesting experience I enjoyed my trip but there were a lot of hiccups along the way, I don't think this was because of the program but rather just because of the location and language barrier. It was over all enjoyable but I was very excited to go home at the end. For other students I would not recommend this trip

I knew from the start that the Chile program would be the right choice for me--because of my focus in Latin American politics and my Spanish skills--but the program far surpassed my expectations, and I genuinely hope that more prospective students choose this site. Chile might fall off the radar for the average person looking to study abroad, but I want to take a moment to advocate for Chile because of how amazing of an experience it was on all ends--academically, socially, in terms of leisure, and the staff. For starters, it truly is the best of all worlds. You are able to experience the vibrance of a major urban hub, but you can also access close by the most remote spots known to man. I highly encourage Chile, if for the optional tour to the Atacama Desert only. Even as somebody that thought they wouldn't enjoy a lot of the outdoor activities in Atacama, I was proven wrong and it became arguably the best part of my study abroad, especially the amazing star gazing. Chile is also so close to great travel destinations, from Easter Island, Machu Picchu and Lima, Buenos Aires, and Rio (I was able to travel to the last four on that list!). My social life was incredibly lively because I chose the cheapest living option with the most amount of roommates, so it ended up being a win-win. I had a great deal, plus I met many friends. The housing is mostly students from other Latin American countries (my roommates were a friendly mix coming from Mexico, El Salvador, Chile, and Spain), so my Spanish improved a lot. For anybody worried about the Spanish, I noticed other people did fine. Despite what local news might say, I actually found Santiago incredibly safe, especially in comparison to big US cities. Overall, the program was very satisfying, and I sincerely hope you consider studying abroad in Santiago.