Dani De La Cruz – Universidad San Francisco de Quito

 

Talk to me about: I am more than happy to talk about anything and everything related to studying abroad! I’ve lived in Montevideo, Uruguay, and Quito, Ecuador, so I can share lots of tips on traveling in Latin America. I also love photography and hiking, and I am more than happy to share some of the best spots in Ecuador. I am also a queer person of color and a low-income first-gen student, and I am more than open to share about my experience as it relates to my identities, including navigating a learning disability while abroad. Always down to talk and help make the most out of your experience in Latin America! (Trust me you’re making the best choice).

Advice: Studying abroad as a first-gen, low-income student is absolutely possible, and I highly encourage you to go for it! Don’t let the portrayal of certain countries or continents in Western media scare you off; I’ve lived in Latin America twice and felt safer there than in the U.S. Living with a host family can make your experience truly special, giving you a deeper connection to the culture. Definitely get outdoors and explore every corner of your host country—hiking mountains and volcanoes every weekend in Ecuador was life-changing! Try everything, even if it seems unconventional—I joined a senior hiking club and made amazing friends. Don’t hesitate to take the leap; studying abroad might just be the best thing that ever happens to you.

 

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