global grant

Tasting Chile and Tackling Volcanoes: The Ultimate Study Abroad Adventure!

Spijkerman, Britt (Exchange) — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 18:39:11 +0000

Tasting Chile and Tackling Volcanoes: The Ultimate Study Abroad Adventure! Spijkerman, Br… Thu, 04/03/2025 - 12:39

Margo Church, currently a Junior and International Affairs Major, is studying abroad in Chile through the ISA Chile: Valparaiso Spanish Language & Latin American Studies program for the Spring 2025 Semester. Read about Margo’s incredible experiences and adventures in Chile below!

Life with my host mom has been going smoothly, and she has been showing me many different Chilean cuisines, like Cazuela, sopapillas, and various kinds of soups. A few days ago, a Chilean student moved in with us as well, so I'm curious to see how that will go! 

My ISA program has taken us on multiple field trips to learn about other sections of Chile! A few weekends ago, we traveled to Pucón, a town in the lake region of Chile, home to the Villarica Volcano. On the first day, we went to a Ruka, a traditional Mapuche house, to learn about Mapuche culture and ways of modern and past ways of living. We tried different types of bread that were freshly made in the fire that sits in the center of the Ruka. We learned how strong the Mapuche connection with the earth is and how they practice sustainability. On the second day, a few of us checked out Huerquehue National Park and learned about the different flora and fauna. On our final day, we all trekked up to the top of the volcano, where we got to see a panoramic view of the lake region. It was one of the hardest hikes I have ever done. 

Another field trip we've done was to some of the northern beaches in the Valparaíso region. We started at Horcón, a fishing village with a lot of small local artisans and restaurants. They have a tradition of using horses to pull in fishing boats. After Horcón, we went north to Zapallar. This beach was very secluded and clean. It was surrounded by houses owned by the wealthiest of Chileans, as well as high-end restaurants. It was super interesting to see the economic disparities on the short drive from Horcón to Zapallar. 

Semester classes have started at the university, and it's a big change from the early block I took in February. Instead of 10 international students in the entire school, there are now around 100 total international students, as well as all the Chilean students back from summer break. It has been tougher to make Chilean friends than I would've expected. However, I am taking every opportunity I can to interact. For example, we had a language exchange where exchange students and local students could all come together and practice each other's languages and form connections. 

I am very interested in my courses as well. They consist of globalization, colonization and decolonization, and dances of Latin America. All my classes are taught in Spanish, which is giving me good speaking and comprehension practice. My favorite class is the dance class. We learn different dances from all around Chile and while we are learning them, the professors give us the history and cultural significance behind the moves and the music. 

Thanks Margo for keeping us updated on your adventures in Chile!

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Exploring Paris and Beyond: Learning, Fashion, and Culture

Spijkerman, Britt (Exchange) — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 21:20:38 +0000

Exploring Paris and Beyond: Learning, Fashion, and Culture Spijkerman, Br… Mon, 02/03/2025 - 14:20

Riley MacQueen, a double major in International Affairs and Political Science as well as International Affairs Global Grant recipient, is currently studying abroad in Paris. Read more about her adventures and educational experiences below!

I have now completed my first month of classes with both CIEE: Semester in Paris; where I am participating in classes studying Intercultural Communication, Fashion and Business in France, and the Culture and Cuisine of France (which is a solely French speaking class), and with the Institut Catholique de Paris; where I am studying the Art History of Anglophone Countries, and the History of Civilization of Great Britain and the United States.

There have been several noteworthy excursions, including the tour of La Sentier- where the fashion industry of Paris was born, and a private tour of Benjamin Benmoyal's design center- one of the most creative and sustainable fashion designers in Paris currently. The chance to expand my knowledge of fashion and its roots within both business and politics has been incredibly eye-opening. As a double major of International Affairs and Political Science, gaining firsthand experience of the effect of foreign policy and of tariff and trade agreements on such a fundamental industry of international economic relations allows me to gain a deeper understanding of international economics. Furthermore, Benmoyal's commitment to sustainable fashion, and the avenues one most pursue to do so, has a much deeper network of transparency, finance, and advocacy then I was aware of.

Several other significant excursions include the tour of Musée de du Quai Branly, and my class's visit to Le Procope. Musée de du Quai Branly is a museum dedicated to the exhibition of Indigenous art cultures of Asia, Oceania, Africa, and the Americas. While in Paris, I have been determined to fully immerse myself within the culture here, so this was my first experience solely focused on culture outside of Europe, and it was incredibly insightful. Le Procope is the oldest café in Paris, and is considered legendary amongst many influential figures, including Jean Jacques- Rousseau, Voltaire, and Diderot. The history that Paris preserves is beyond belief at times, and I often find myself feeling as if I am in a dream.

Finally, this month I was also able to visit London. Within my short weekend trip, I explored Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the House of Parliament, The Thames, Westminster Abbey, and many of the other incredible attractions London has to offer. Studying in Europe has provided me with so many incredible opportunities for adventure, expansion of knowledge, and emersion within culture. This chance to reflect on my recent life changes has granted me an opening to practice gratitude and gratefulness each day, and I look forward to everything that comes next!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with us, Riley! We look for forward to seeing what the rest of the semester brings for you.

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Exploring Chile's Atacama Desert: A Journey of Discovery and Reflection

Anonymous — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 17:03:17 +0000

Exploring Chile's Atacama Desert: A Journey of Discovery and Reflection Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 11/08/2024 - 10:03

Andres Almonte, an International Affairs major and IAFS Global Grant recipient, shares the unforgettable experiences from his study abroad journey in Chile, through the program ISA Chile: Valparaiso Latin American Studies & Courses with Locals. In his latest update, Andres recounts a remarkable October, highlighted by a trip to the awe-inspiring Atacama Desert, where he explored stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. His travels also offered a deeper perspective on globalization’s impact on local communities—a theme he connects back to his IAFS studies. You can see more photos of Andres' early adventures on this IAFS Instagram post.

I’d like to share my third update on my experience studying abroad in Chile this semester. Overall, October was a great month, and I have been having a very good time. Without a doubt, the highlight of my month was my trip to San Pedro de Atacama, the world’s driest desert. At the beginning of October, I travelled to Atacama with three of my good friends that I have met here in Chile. While there, we were able to participate in many activities and see truly amazing natural landscapes. For example, on the trip I visited natural hot springs, salt flats, and the “Valley of the Moon” where The Martian was filmed. Additionally, I saw many animals that are uncommon in the US: flamingos and alpacas.

While this was an amazing experience for me personally, I also was able to relate my experience to what I have been learning in IAFS as well as some of my classes here in Chile. In Atacama, I saw the clear effects of globalization as the town and its economy were clearly built to accept tourists, something that it has done successfully; when I went, the town was full of tourists from the US and Europe. The negative side effect of this is that San Pedro has become inaccessible for the average Chilean citizen because American and European tourists are willing to pay prices that are much greater than what most Chileans can afford. This trip was ultimately a good opportunity for me to reflect on the pros and cons of globalization in the global South.

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Twice the Adventure: Daisy Vu's Summer 2024 Experience in Costa Rica

Anonymous — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 23:03:16 +0000

Twice the Adventure: Daisy Vu's Summer 2024 Experience in Costa Rica Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 09/16/2024 - 17:03

Daisy Vu is an extraordinary CU �鶹ӰԺ student! She is an IAFS Major, is minoring in Anthropology, History and Business, and is completing the Certificate in Peace, Conflict, and Security (PACS). She also has been awarded the Global Grants Scholarship twice for two summer study abroad experiences - first in Summer 2023 to Bordeaux, France and this past Summer 2024 to Costa Rica! Read about her time in Costa Rica below and enjoy the amazing photos she took!

Costa Rica’s charm and beauty has undoubtedly left an impression on myself, as a person, and my studies. It’s no secret that Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity and contains many natural masterpieces, with its beaches, sloths, and monkeys, but something that is wildly underappreciated is the people, with Tico (Costa Rican) culture being overshadowed by the country’s ecological richness. As an anthropology course, we were encouraged interact with the people and critically think of tourism for all its merits and detriments to the community, seeing the human impact in addition to the ecological impact. In a way, the learning never stopped, and the classroom extended to the jungle and city streets, where every experience was an anthropological learning opportunity.

We exercised fieldwork activities that critically assessed the tourism industry. Despite not knowing Spanish, my openness to new experiences and interacting with others propelled my success in this program, having gained new cultural perspectives and insight into anthropological fieldwork. The program facilitated examining everything in a critical, academic lens, something beneficial in any situation, especially foreign. I learned all about Costa Rica’s place in international politics, containing expats of various origins, many tourists of different nationalities, and role in sustainable tourism with excursions into the national parks of Manuel Antonio and Cahuita. I also took part in a homestay program in a small town, concentrating on the belonging side, and learned of the community and Costa Rican culture, while giving back with a community project involving renovating an elementary school. All of our host families were so full of life and character, and I am super appreciative of my own host family for feeding me and welcoming me into their home, it was an amazing experience!

With the sun of the equator, and the warmth of the Costa Rican people, Costa Rica has left its mark on me and I am extremely grateful to have been able to embark on this adventure and build bonds with my fellow buffs and the Ticos along the way.

Many thanks to Daisy for sharing about her trips with us and we are excited to see what you accomplish!

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Discovering Indonesia: Jackson's Journey Through Cross-Cultural Education

Anonymous — Sun, 21 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Discovering Indonesia: Jackson's Journey Through Cross-Cultural Education Anonymous (not verified) Sun, 04/21/2024 - 00:00

Hear from Global Grant recipient Jackson Marcus, who is currently studying abroad in Indonesia! Since arriving in Indonesia, he has immersed himself in Indonesian culture by exploring different regions, trying new foods, and interacting with locals. Read about his adventures below:

Update from February 2024

It's been a little more than two weeks since I arrived in Indonesia and it's been quite an experience so far. I spent my first two days in Jakarta where I took the most terrifying tuk tuk ride of my life (he was going over the speed limit on the sidewalk) and ate a lot of mysterious street food. After that I decided to take the train to Jogja which offered some incredible views. I had heard before coming here that Java was the most populated island in the world, but I've been pleasantly surprised to find a lot of rural areas and nothing that remotely compares to the chaos of Jakarta.

The people are incredibly friendly and hospitable. A few days ago a local student I had just met invited me to visit his village. His family are tobacco farmers from Temanggung province and almost certainly don't speak a word of english so it should be a real cultural experience. Last weekend I went with some other international students to a town called Pacitan about three hours away. We passed through some pretty remote villages that seemed untouched by the outside world which was really cool to see. This is easily the most naturally beautiful part of the world I've been to and I'm excited to explore more of the country.

Update from March 2024

This past month I've been settling into life in Jogja. The room I'm renting is immediately across from a mosque that plays what seems to me an exceptionally loud call to prayer before dawn everyday, but I've been able to sleep through it recently which has been a great development for me. Ramadan started a little more than a week ago and the whole town is much quieter during the day, but around 4 p.m. hundreds of street food vendors start to set up all around the city and the whole place becomes very lively. The food here is very delicious, I thought I might get sick of it but so far that hasn't happened. Last weekend I drove to a place called the Dieng Plateau and got invited to an iftar which is the fast-breaking evening meal. It started with a very sweet drink with lots of fruit and then fresh river fish with vegetables and the staples of rice and fried tempeh. Unfortunately my Bahasa Indonesia is still practically nonexistent so communicating was a challenge, but it was still a very cool experience.

Thanks for sharing, Jackson! We can't wait to hear more about your adventures!

Jackson is a Global Grant recipient, which is a scholarship exclusive to IAFS majors to fund their Education Abroad programs. The Global Grant Scholarship offers up to $3000 worth of funding to support your study abroad experience. The deadline to apply for this scholarship for programs next summer, fall, or the academic year is March 1st. More information can be found on the IAFS Global Grant webpage, and the application can be found on the Education Abroad Buffs Scholarships webpage.

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Hear from Global Grant Recipient Aspen Reeves

Anonymous — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 21:27:29 +0000

Hear from Global Grant Recipient Aspen Reeves Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 09/27/2023 - 15:27

Meet Global Grant recipient, Aspen Reeves! Aspen is currently participating in the ISA Chile: Valparaiso Latin American Studies & Courses with Locals program where she's spending the year in Vaparaiso, Chile. She's started classes with Chilean locals, and when she's not in class she's been exploring the city and learning about Chile's rich history. Hear from her below:

Hello again! August was certainly a busy busy month for me in Chile! Not only did I finish up my summer classes for the month long spanish intensive, but I went on my 1st ever solo-trip to a town called Vicuña in the Valle de Elqui (where author Gabriela Mistral lived and worked), went hiking at the famous National Park La Campana (which Charles Darwin summited and wrote about during his studies in Chile), and began my semester classes with local Chilean students!

This past month has also involved taking a deeper dive into Chilean history and culture and I have learned a lot about the effect of the Pinochet regime on the Chilean people both in the 1970s and 80s and today; which included an excursion to Santiago to visit the Museo de la Memoria, El Cemeterio General, and Parque de la Paz Villa Grimaldi (an extermination and torture camp during the regime that has now been converted to a memorial site). With the 50th anniversary of the end of the dictatorship (which is not officially recognized as a such by a large portion of the country) coming up on September 11th- followed by the Chilean independence holiday on the week of September 18th- emotions are certainly high surrounding the topic of nationhood and human rights as of right now. As a student of international affairs, and as someone who has focused on human rights throughout my college education, it has been extremely educational and impactful to be studying here during this important time in Chile’s history.

Thanks for sharing, Aspen! We're looking forward to hearing more.

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Hear from Global Grant Recipient Sarah Bian

Anonymous — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 17:54:28 +0000

Hear from Global Grant Recipient Sarah Bian Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 08/02/2023 - 11:54

Meet Global Grant Recipient, Sarah Bian! Sarah is participating in the Global Internships: Amsterdam, Netherlands summer program where she's completing a software development internship. Hear about her experiences below.

I am at a software development internship at a local fintech startup in Amsterdam where I help develop an app that optimizes tuition payments, conversion rates, and wire transfers from students studying abroad at international universities. Not only do I relate intensely to the startup's goals as a student myself, but I am excited each day to learn and hone my skills in software engineering.

Amsterdam has been a wonderful place to work, and its history and people have been amazing to explore and get to know. I have never been to Europe before, and I haven't left the U.S. in many, many years. This was an entirely new experience for me, but I have loved snacking on bitterballen, hopping on trains to the Hague, biking on bridges over canals, and walking through the Rijksmuseum. My Dutch coworkers have been the kindest people, and working in a real office at a real company in the Netherlands has given me insight into the real, everyday life of a programmer. I've been able to help launch their website for the company, and now I'm helping deploy their mobile app.

We're glad you're having such great experiences, Sarah!

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Hear from Global Grant Recipient Daisy Vu

Anonymous — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 19:05:40 +0000

Hear from Global Grant Recipient Daisy Vu Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 07/11/2023 - 13:05

Meet Global Grant Recipient, Daisy Vu!

For a few weeks this summer, Daisy participated in the Global Seminar: French Connections in Bordeaux, France where she studied current events and issues in France and learned about the city of Bordeaux. Read about Daisy's experiences below.

Going to Bordeaux was not only a beautiful experience but also a very enlightening, enriching one, where the city showcased French culture and history without the cosmopolitan glam of cities like Paris. Something that attracted me to the city of Bordeaux, aside from the wine, was its history, which was proudly and gorgeously displayed in its churches and architecture. The first full day there we did a sightseeing walking tour of the city, seeing landmarks such as “La Grosse Cloche” (the fat clock), St. André Cathedral, Miroir d’Eau, Opera House, Monument aux Girondins, etc. I loved the stained glass windows of the churches, the ornamentation of the buildings, and the overall gothic and romantic style of architecture. It is all reminiscent of the 19th and 18th centuries, providing a stark contrast to the newer American buildings that I am used to seeing.

Specifically, St. Andre’s Cathedral was definitely a main attraction, with it being right next to the “Hotel de Ville" or town hall and its largeness. Its stained glass fixtures, huge organ, and worship memorabilia stood out at first stroll through. After the first day, I came back another 2 times with different people from my group each time. On the second visit, we paid 2 euros to go into a special museum area that displayed relics, a reliquary, and religious artifacts. I was in awe of how cool and old they were, some dating back to the 15th century.

Another historical point of interest was the Musee d’Aquitaine where Bordeaux and France’s history is long and deep, stretching so far back, from prehistoric times to now. It was interesting going through time with prehistoric landmarks and fossils, Romans, feudalism, slave trade, French Revolution, Napoleon, and contemporary history.

Within class, we learned all about French culture utilizing American perspectives as a point of contrast and comparison. Subjects of interest included wokism, feminism and gender, identity, pension and protest, and race. It was really fascinating how the French and Americans have similar views of secularism, freedom, and equality, but enforce or try to achieve the same goals in different ways as a result of their differing histories and perspectives. This is striking especially when talking about identity politics and race, in how the French don’t like to track or talk about race in order to maintain equality and liberty, which is jarring from the American perspective in which not talking about race is racist in itself, as it would be seen as marginalizing racial inequality.

On another hand, wine is a huge part of culture in France! Bordeaux, known as the wine capital of the world, hosted “La fete du Vin” which is known as the wine festival over the weekend, and it was a really fun experience! There were many types of wine to try, from the reds, merlot and sauvignon, the whites, sauvignon Blanc and sémillon, and the rosés, and many professionals there to teach about the regions and what differentiates each. At St. Émilion, we hiked all the way up to the town, getting a first hand look at the vines of the vineyard and castle. Another highlight of the trip was an excursion to Chateau Olivier, where we saw the winemaking process up close while learning about what it takes to run a quality vineyard, from the equipment, acreage, and grapes. The most educational wine experience though was the wine tasting class in which we learned about what to look for in a wine and how to identify the main characteristics with what it looks like, how it smells, and how it tastes.

Overall, I really loved Bordeaux! Not only just because of the city and it’s beauty (historically and aesthetically), but I loved it because of the people I met there. The CU �鶹ӰԺ group was full of some of the most interesting, kind, funny, and cool people I’ve met with such diverse experiences and point of views. I feel like we bonded as a group and I can happily say I’ve made at least 19 friends on this trip. Additionally, the local people I’ve met were so kind and generous, especially the service workers who engaged in speaking French with learners and gladly answered questions about their life and France. I already miss Europe and France and am super grateful to be able to go on this trip, but I am glad to be home in Colorado!

We're glad you had such an amazing trip, Daisy!

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Hear from Global Grant Recipient Tali Ortega

Anonymous — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 17:50:11 +0000

Hear from Global Grant Recipient Tali Ortega Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 06/15/2023 - 11:50

Tali Ortega, an International Affairs and Political Science student, spent a few weeks of her summer in France. She was chosen as a Summer 2023 Global Grant Recipient and went on the "Doing Business in Europe" Global Seminar where she spent 2.5 weeks in the city of Aix-en-Provence learning about business in Europe. She went on business visits, heard from guest lecturers, and experienced the beautiful city filled with French culture. Hear about her time abroad below:

To begin, I'd like to express my sincere gratitude for those who helped make this trip possible! I never could have imagined just how much I have learned and honestly grown in the past 2.5 weeks. My seminar was designed to have 14 businesses. Here's a list of the companies that we visited: Airbus Helicopter, Parfums de la Bastide, Calissons Factory, Pellenc ST, Mediadev, STMicroelectronics, Biopool Tech, Chateau de Beaupre, Zebox, CMA CGM, and Two Worlds Whiskey. Now I wanted to list all of the visits to help you get a grasp of what an amazing mix and variety we were able to learn about!

Arguably, my favorite visit has been a sustainable pool company, BioPool Tech. Overall, I found their ability to rise again after bankruptcy, into a flourishing and healthy business to be very inspiring. It's nice to learn that even if you fail, you can build yourself up and still succeed. I am very honored to be able to learn about what makes a good company. In the future, I plan to use what I've learned when job hunting, as work culture is an important component of the difference between a good and "not-so-good" company.

Moreover, I have really enjoyed living with my homestay “mom,” and have bonded very well with my two roommates. We have had fun exploring the city of a thousand fountains, eating delicious foods, bowling, going to the beach and connecting with French culture. I always looked forward to having dinner as it was full of amazing food and tons of laughter. I also never expected to learn as much about Aix and French customs as much as I did! The first few days were admittedly rough as culture shock hit pretty hard but having amazing students around me really helped me adjust. Ultimately, I am so happy and blessed to have been able to come on the trip.

All in all, this trip has gone above my expectations and I am so grateful for the experiences and opportunities.

We're so glad you had a wonderful time, Tali!

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Hear from Global Grant Recipient Lillian Bisantz

Anonymous — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 18:27:59 +0000

Hear from Global Grant Recipient Lillian Bisantz Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 03/22/2023 - 12:27

Global Grant recipient, Lillian Bisantz, is currently studying at the American University in Cairo (Cairo, Egypt). Read about how her experience has been so far!

I have been in Cairo, Egypt for just under a month and it has been a whirlwind to say the least. Already I have visited the pyramids (twice), spent a weekend in an oasis in the Sahara desert, been to an Egyptian engagement party and spent the weekend with a family friend’s grandmother, been on a Nile river cruise for dinner, had a party on a boat called a felucca on the Nile, wandered through the leafy neighborhoods along the Nile in the city, attended Cairo Photo Week, and navigated language, transportation, and cultural differences (for example: I am not allowed to have any of my male friends over for dinner or lunch). I am caught between the desire I have to create a routine for myself while I am here and the reality that my time here is fleeting and it is possible for me to be busy every weekend and even every evening. Cairo is truly the city that never sleeps.

I am living in campus housing about a five minute walk from campus in an area called New Cairo. Unfortunately this neighborhood is about an hour away from the city and there are a lot less cultural outlets here for me to explore so I find myself in buses and Ubers 4-5 times a week as I head downtown. This has however given me an intimate look into the seeming chaos that is driving in Egypt.

Although I have taken three years of Arabic at CU, it turns out the formal Arabic I have been learning does not help me much in navigating the Egyptian spoken dialect. This has been a humbling experience. I have signed up for an additional “Pre-Semester Survival Arabic Course” through the American University in Cairo that is focused on the basics for navigating Cairo which I am very much looking forward to starting. I have class four days a week on AUC’s beautiful campus and even while it is an American University I have found the differences between student’s study habits and general campus vibe to be very different.

I have connected quickly and easily with many of the other international students which I feel so grateful for and living in campus housing has also provided an outlet for meeting others. I have also been in contact with some young Egyptians outside of the university that are related to one of my friends back home which has been an invaluable contact.

There is a feeling of aliveness here that I have missed in my life thus far. I am already falling in love with this city. In the coming month I will be running the Cairo 10k; hopefully visiting the coast (Alexandria); and starting the celebration of Ramadan.

Thank you Lillian for sharing your story with us! If you would like to help other IAFS students study abroad and enrich their CU education, you can learn about the Global Grants scholarship or donate here.

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