What inspired you to go abroad?
I was interested in traveling and I was interested in growing professionally in the social sector globally. I also saw this as an opportunity to grow personally and step outside of my comfort zone.
Every week, we went on a different excursion! This was on the way to San Sebastián, where we were able to explore, learn about a coffee plantation and have a delicious Mexican meal
Why did you choose Human Connections?
I chose Human Connections because of their reputation as well as their commitment to social change. I was also excited that Human Connections is a social enterprise and that I could work with marketing within this program. Since I am a marketing major with minors in both nonprofit organizations and social entrepreneurship, this program was a perfect fit! I had also heard from several students in my classes that had previously interned with Human Connections that it was an amazing experience!
What was your favorite part about Bucerias?
My favorite part of Bucerias, Nayarit was how it felt so safe. There was not a moment of the trip where I didn't feel safe. I also really enjoyed how the community members started to recognize you as you walked to work and they would always say "hola" or "buenas" when they saw you. After going on a few tours with Human Connections, you really feel apart of the community.
What made your experience abroad unique?
Human Connections made my experience abroad unique. Every part of the program was special and had a purpose. From various excursions to various tours, we all had an amazing time learning about the history of Bucerias, the community, and Mexican culture. The staff was phenomenal and was always there for the students, which made my experience even better!
Part of our group before we head out and explore the beautiful town of Sayulita!
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
From months before flying into Puerto Vallarta to months after, the Human Connections team is there for you.
Prior to departure, Human Connections was there to answer any questions you had, calm any fears, and get you thinking of traveling in a responsible manner in their community.
During the program, they were always there day in and day out to support us and help us if we needed it. From suggestions to places to go, to eat, or shop, they were always there making sure that our time in Mexico was one to remember.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
I can honestly say that I don't think that anything could have be done differently. Every single piece of the program was well coordinated, and all the details were planned out to provide an amazing experience for every student.
Our group with the new Human Connections' partners, Segis and Yadira! We had an amazing time learning from this couple and working on developing a new tour program for them!
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
There wasn't a "typical day" in the Human Connections' program! Some days were spent in the office working on a team project, some days were spent learning about the community and their partners, and some days were spent on an excursion.
Each day, we learned new things about the culture, about the organization, and about ourselves.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
During our free time, we enjoyed going to the beach, exploring Bucerias, or taking the bus to Sayulita. There is something for everyone, whether you like culture-rich experiences, more relaxing afternoons, or high adventure activities—you are in the right spot!
What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?
We stayed in Hotel Palmeras which was a nice hotel about 10 minutes away from the Human Connections office. I shared a room with one other student. We really enjoyed everything that Hotel Palmeras had to offer. The ladies that worked the front desk were always helpful and friendly, as well as the security guards. The pool and the rooftop was a perfect spot to hang out after work and just relax!
During one of the tours we went on we visited Don Moisés & Doña Zenaida, one of the many different partners of Human Connections! I was able to have a hands on opportunity learning how to weave a hammock!
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
I would say the biggest thing to know before participating in a program with Human Connections is that you will find a family in Mexico during your trip! Each one of the staff members were friendly and a blast to spend time with during the program. Also, go into every activity, every tour, and every experience with an open-mind and you will truly appreciate every single minute of your experience!
Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?
Interning abroad has not only helped me expand my comfort zone but it has also helped me travel in a more sustainable and responsible way. Since returning from Mexico, I have thought about travel and different cultures in a different light. We all have the responsibility to share our stories about travel in a way that will protect and promote the host country and its people.
Would you recommend Human Connections to others? Why?
I would recommend Human Connections to anyone that truly wants to learn more about the community, the culture, and the history of Mexico. The Human Connections team truly cares about you and wants to make sure you have a positive experience in Mexico. You will learn more about yourself, have plenty of opportunities to step outside of your comfort zone, and grow in a professional sense with the international projects you will work on. If you want to have an amazing experience abroad, definitely choose Human Connections!
