Too often, students are not afforded the chance to experience a place or culture outside of their own.  While there are many reasons for this, anytime the opportunity to study abroad presents itself, no student should pass it up.  This spring, I participated in an alternative spring break service trip with the Tickle College of Engineering to the country of Guatemala.  It was an experience I will not forget.

Studying abroad opens the eyes of those participating.  On the surface, visiting a developing country could be seen as a heartbreaking trip, given the disparity in the quality of life.  I have found the opposite to be true.  Yes, the living conditions of Guatemala are not what we in the United States are accustomed to.  The infrastructure can be downright scary at times, the water sources are dangerous to drink from, and the scars of Colonialism and social strife are visible.  However, no matter how dilapidated the conditions are, the people of Guatemala would always greet you with a smile on their face.  They were always proud to display the crafts they made or share their own deep knowledge of their homeland.  They were never disheartened about how far their country was from what we would consider prosperous, but looked forward to taking on the challenges ahead of them.  This optimism was truly inspiring to witness.  You leave the country not feeling pity for its inhabitants, but encouraged.

By studying abroad, students gain a global context.  It frames your thinking and calls on you to think big about your actions.  As we study to become engineers, it is important to grasp how our actions will influence the world around us.  With a global context in mind, the systems and innovations we create can help alleviate and solve the multitude of challenges around our world.  I can say without a doubt that I am glad I went on this trip.  The memories of the people we met and the places we visited will stay with me for a long time.