My experience in Argentina was better than I could have ever imagined as a freshman. I know study abroad experiences are all unique and amazing in different ways, but nothing could have prepared me for the things I would learn, the relationships I would form, and my takeaways from staying in this beautiful country. I could not pick a favorite part if I tried because it was all so amazing, thanks to this amazing group, instructor, and IES coordinators. If I had to think, my first biggest takeaway from this is to be grateful for what you have, especially the healthcare system. Of course, the US healthcare system is not amazing, in terms of financing especially. But, I would never have to experience the poor conditions Argentines are experiencing in their public hospital systems. I know even if I was not insured here in America, I would not receive that kind of quality of care and lack of resources. Touring these hospitals set me in a new perspective and allowed me to truly empathize with these people. It makes me thankful that I am insured and have great quality of care if I need it. It showed me that the healthcare system truly needs a huge change and reform to better the wellbeing of Argentines and improve human rights. Changing subjects, another huge takeaway I had on this trip was the importance of human connection and relationships with one another. Argentines are very big “people people” and relationships are very important to them, which I can say similarly. I had two very close friends going on this trip that I knew of, which was a security blanket for me. This trip was different from other study abroad trips where you probably don’t know anyone going and you are all alone. I didn’t know if I would make friends with anyone else on the trip or how anything would really go. Once we were stranded in Atlanta airport, I knew right away how this trip was going to go. I made some of the most amazing friends ever that I wouldn’t have made otherwise, even though the majority are in the nursing program with me. I am confident saying I could run into anyone on this trip on the street next year and talk to them one on one, which is something I don’t take for granted. I feel like I can’t put into words how important these relationships became to me so quickly being in a new country for the first time. I truly love everyone I met on this trip and am excited to continue building these relationships next year. This isn’t a goodbye Argentina, it’s a see you later!
