New Activisms, Human Rights and Social Justice

This study abroad was certainly out of the ordinary for what you would get for a semester abroad. If you’re looking for an authentic experience in countries that are less popular for study abroad, this is for you! This program was incredibly thought-out and well organized and I learned so much that was directly applicable to my studies and work. Please don’t let chatter about safety in Guatemala deter you—I felt safe, even as a woman, and the staff to support you were very prepared about safety concerns. I would recommend this program to anyone willing to experience something unique and that challenges your current ways of thinking. This program is especially applicable to majors in sociology/anthropology, gender studies, Spanish, poli sci, Latin American studies, international relations, race/ethnicity studies, education, journalism and similar things.

I was honored to participate in this program when it was "Social Change in Central America" in 2016. My experience in the program dramatically improved by Spanish, deepened my understanding of Central American history, and gave me concrete lenses and tools through which I still analyze social movements. While I was on the trip I learned about the Network in Solidarity with the People of Guatemala (NISGUA), which became my movement home. I now live in Guatemala. I would highly recommend this program for young organizers who want to deepen their internationalist practice.

My experience with the CGEE Central America program is one that I always cherish and appreciate, as it affirmed my desire to pursue social justice and gave me the tools to continue onto a career in human rights in Central America. I had been interested more broadly in the idea of “Human Rights in Central America” and “Social Justice” for several years prior to studying abroad with CGEE. As a student at Clark University, in Worcester, MA, I devoted my studies to focus on Central American politics and history, to complement my major in “International Development and Social Change”. I found this program so impactful because it transformed my understanding of “development” and “social change” by pulling me out of the classroom to learn from actual people and communities about their lived experiences and their visions of change for their own communities. After spending years in an institutionalized setting, I appreciated the focus on people first education. It allowed me to strengthen my formalized knowledge on history and politics in Central America but most importantly interact with human beings who lived through what I had read about. By living with host families, I was able to learn and engage in conversations not just in meetings, but every day. These relationships and conversations allowed me to see how US policy adversely affects people and communities and moved me to commit to working to change said policies in my professional career. This experience gave me a better understanding of my own privileges and how to better work for and with communities in the struggle for social justice. While uncomfortable at certain times, the program forced me to look at the role of my “whiteness” and be self critical of how I take up space and how systems of oppression perpetuate these dynamics in social justice spaces. I now try to carry these lessons with me in my work. I recommend this program to everyone and anyone interested in learning about transformative social change in Central America. I especially appreciated the one on one Spanish classes that allowed everyone in the group, all coming from many different Spanish levels, to learn at their own pace, feel challenged, and make significant strides in their language acquisition. Not to mention, the incredible dedication of staff to interpret meetings and make all aspects of the program as accessible as possible. Finally, I built strong bonds and relationships through this program. For example, two of my closest friends came out of this experience. Moreover, several of us from my semester moved on to work in Central American Solidarity and Migrant Justice Organizations, which allows us to coordinate campaigns and continue to work together. I’ve even met CGEE alumni while working in Honduras from other semesters that were also moved by their experiences to do protective human rights accompaniment and human rights advocacy in the region. When considering where to study abroad, I highly recommend the Social Change in Central America program.

Although I don't remember everything I learned sitting in the classroom while abroad, what I remember most are the kind people I interacted and communicated with, the beautiful places I traveled, and the many communities and cultures I learned from, both in Guatemala and Costa Rica. Through reviewing Guatemala's history and Mayan culture, living with host families in indigenous and self-sustained communities, hearing stories from Nicaraguan refugees, and learning about Costa Rica's green plans for the future, I got to see firsthand the ways people in Central America are creating social change. All of this, along with the cherished relationships I formed with program staff and peers, helped to form changes within myself that I didn't expect. I found myself more calm and patient than ever before in my life, and more curious and open to new experiences, places, and people. I am so thankful for this time I had to take a break from the fast pace of US life and dive into a world more intelligent, compassionate, and comforting than I ever would have imagined before this experience. I miss the Guatemalan mountains, runs under the Costa Rican sun, swimming in the Caribbean ocean, and most importantly my abroad "mom," Ruth, and my Costa chicas every day. I would recommend this study abroad opportunity to anyone with a love of Spanish (even if you don't speak it well), an openness to nature and community, and a longing to find a deeper part of yourself you never knew was there. If I had to describe my time in Central America in one word it would be this: wholesome.

I loved going on this program. Everything was very well organized by the staff. The home stays, although they may be difficult, are an important part of the experience. I appreciated only taking one class at a time because it really allowed us to focus our energy on one thing at a time. Although I enjoyed all the guest speakers we had, it often time felt like they were too squished in and not enough time to discuss and process the information personally and with the group. I did like that we had speakers with contrasting opinions, I felt that this added to the depth of my learning and gave me opportunities to see arguments in many directions.

It is seemingly impossible to describe my abroad experience in words. Spending time in Central America broadened my perspective immensely and challenged me emotionally and intellectually. I will take those four months with me for the rest of my life in making an effort to be more mindful and intentional. Sometimes the schedule was grueling and the hours long, but it was an experience I would not give back. This program isn’t meant to be like others. It is meant to take you far out of your comfort zone and make you aware of injustices. Do not hesitate to sign up for this journey!

I did the Central America program and I had a really amazing time. I learned so much about the region and about the people. The classes were really good and it was nice to not have to already know Spanish beforehand.

The entire study abroad program was actually a life changing experience and I’m trying not to sound as cliche as possible. The people, professors, students, and families that I’ve encountered here have really made a big impact on me as well as the places we visited. This program really opened my eyes to what the realities really are in this world and I’m thankful for it.

Overall, a great experience and the administration and coordinators adapted well to the changing political/social climate in Central America. I always felt safe and loved constantly interacting with community members and the multiple homestays.

This program changed me in more ways than I imagine, and I know that's cliché to say, but it's true. I learned about everything from the language to what my role is as a human being is on this earth. The lessons I learned are invaluable.

This program legitimately changed my life. I loved it and it completely changed my worldview and opened my eyes to so many different issues and realities, while still having an amazing time travelling and making lifelong friends.

I absolutely loved my experience in Central America. I learned so much about myself and how small I am in this huge world of ours that I never would have been able to learn in a classroom at Augsburg. I’m so thankful for the experiences and relationships I’ve gained and can’t believe how quickly this semester has flown by. Time flies when you’re having fun (:

I enjoyed this program immensely. I cannot wait to share what I have learned in Central America with my friends and family back home! This has been one of the most influential experiences of my life thus far.

My study abroad experience overpassed the expectations I had when I signed up. Until further reflection I realized I learned a great amount of material in each country with the short amount of time to complete a semester's worth of work. With the immersion within the communities and the presentations by the speakers, I have a good understanding on how the Central American society functions, its beauty, and its needs. I believe that my education and safety was the main priority of out administration. I believe the Nicaraguan CGEE staff handled well our safety while the uprising occurred. With the limited amount of time they were able to evacuate us and successfully help us arrive to our homes. Through the journey, they helped us understand the precautions we should take as we explore our new environments and how to adequately perform in the spaces we where present at. Participating in this study abroad program has been one of the best decision I have taken during my undergraduate career and has given me the chance to understand different perspectives and lifestyles.

This is an experience that I will never regret. One of the best decisions of my life. I learned so much and met amazing people that I will never forget. I heard so many people say that studying abroad is something a person will never regret and I am glad that got the opportunity to do just that.

Overall, I really enjoyed my semester. I loved Xela as a place, and I hope to spend more time there. I appreciated my one-on-one Spanish classes because that is a unique, privileged experience many people won't have, even when they're studying abroad. I loved learning about the politics of Nicaragua, which is something I have not learned about in my classes. This program is also unique because we go to three countries: Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua. We get to see many different places in those three countries, from small rural towns to large urban cities. The program allows us to confront and challenge our own preconceived notions of what Central America looks like. I do wish we had more activities in Spanish because I felt like I lost some of my Spanish as the semester progressed. It is definitely possible to maintain your Spanish, and I did to a certain extent, you just have to be more proactive about it and go out of your way to chat with your host family, speak to peers in Spanish, etc.

This program forces you to be better, to think outside of the normal structural standards that you normally would. After coming back, I felt that I had grown a considerable amount in knowledge and personality. A wise woman once told me "sometimes it's good to just feel and experience and live your life without thinking so much about the impact but rather the moment and how certain people and experiences make you feel".

It is obvious that the administrators of this program really care about their students, academically and personally. This is an immersive experience, focusing on learning from and with communities and I certainly have done that and I am better for it. At many times this program was difficult, but I had the support I needed to be successful. I am going back to my home university with new knowledge and a new perspective on what learning can be.

Traveling to another country is stressful. The logistics, the language, the living situation. Not only did I travel to one country, but I lived in three countries. The program does an incredible job at organizing all of the stressful aspects of traveling. While there is still a lot of planning you have to do, CGEE helps your transition from country to country and your day to day life within the countries run smoothly and efficiently. In addition to this, the teachers in each country were all incredible and well qualified to educate students on each culture. The classes addressed a wide breadth of important of information on different subject areas of each country. As a result, we had a comprehensive study of the Central American region, and were able to truly learn about the culture, the people, international relations, current situation and problems, etc. I always felt safe, and like I had resources available to me when I needed anything. It was an amazing experience.

Overall highly positive experience. I never felt alone or afraid. I was supported the whole way through. During challenging times and fun times I was always accounted for and able to express concerns in a positive way.

CGEE is a wonderful program if you are looking for an intimate and immersive experience. The program is rigorous, but it is planned so that you gain a lot of knowledge inside and outside the classroom.

This program has changed my life. I have conceptualized a lot of what I'd been learning in my classes, but bridging the gap between theory and practice with experiential learning and hearing from so many different voices. My worldview has grown and been altered. I have grown and learned so much from my classes, my homestays, speakers, and from working within this type of group setting and learning pedagogy.

This was an incredible abroad experience. From the program directors to the professors to all the incredible speakers to all of the host families we had the opportunity to meet, every facet of this abroad experience could not have been better.

This study abroad experience has been absolutely incredible. Going above and beyond my expectations, this program has challenged my worldview and helped me re-evaluate my place within our globalized context. This was the only abroad program I applied for because I knew it was the right fit for the cultural, academic, and experiential program I was looking for. I have and will continue to recommend this program to any student actively seeking out the aforementioned characteristics in an abroad experience.

The experience overall was incredible, being able to study in three different countries and immerse myself in the different cultures really added to my learning and helped my Spanish a lot. With this unique layout one spends a lot of time with the same people (traveling, classes, etc) which in the long run was valuable, and you get very close with them, however at times it can be a little overwhelming. This is just something to keep in mind, but as a whole the good definitely outweighs any bad.

Going abroad to Central America (Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua) was incredible and such an important experience that I hope many more students from the United States and Europe get to experience. This program did a great job of educating about the damaging effects of capitalism through helping students to create meaningful relationships with citizens in all three countries. Through homestay visits, experiential learning, and immersive language education all students on this program are leaving with an awareness of their consumption habits and privilege in a productive and powerful way.

Host families were a highlight of my experience. In each country I had such a different host-family experiences allowing me to meet and build relationships with many people. Regarding academics, I'd say this program is focused on the academics through both experiential learning and through the traditional class-room experience as well. In Guatemala, we each had one teacher for one-on-one Spanish instruction, which was extremely valuable. However, I do wish that this program gave an opportunity to continue studying Spanish post-Guatemala on the side of our other main courses in Nicaragua and Costa Rica, especially because our courses in Nicaragua and Costa Rica were in English. I learned a great deal in every class and I loved how each class was different, but also related the content of the other classes. For me, learning about U.S. foreign policy in Central America was eye-opening and our classes in Nicaragua went in-depth about the historical, political, social and economic context of Nicaragua and U.S. relations with different Central America countries. Furthermore, we were able to hear from so many different perspectives as many days we met with speakers who spoke about particular themes we were studying in class in each country, which contributed to cultural immersion. However, in some ways cultural immersion was great and in other ways it was lacking; I do think more opportunities regarding getting involved with the community and community events could have been presented or pre-planned, such as meeting or having a meal with more groups of young people at the university or apart of certain Nicaraguan/ Costa Rican/ Guatemalan groups. Furthermore the homestays counted as very culturally immersive experiences, but also as personal experiences as well-–as everyone in our group had very different host family experiences from one another. Our group of 13 spent a large portion of the semester together which was great in a way that we built a close community, but also difficult at times as well such as traveling as a group or being in public spaces as a group of students from the U.S.––which can carry a lot of obvious privilege. Overall, I would highly recommend this program to someone looking to experience living with host families in three different countries in both the rural and urban context, be pushed out of their comfort zones analyze their privileges and learn about a vast range of topics from Liberation Theology to the Political climate of Nicaragua.

I really loved this program and thought it was very thorough in its consideration of cultural context, support of students, and academics. It allotted a great deal of space to reflecting, critical thinking, and important conversations to have during the time of the experience, and encouraged action afterward. All of the faculty and staff are very supportive and knowledgeable, and at least in my experience, the students the program attracts are very willing to engage and learn on many levels with one another.

Overall, this trip has provided me with many meaningful experiences and memories. We have learned about the history and current political state of Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua. I have seen first hand how Central America can certainly NOT be looked at as one united region, as each place, town, neighborhood, family, and person experiences a completely different reality. I have been challenged in many ways physically, emotionally, and culturally. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone and everyone. For me, I wish the program held us more accountable to learning, living and speaking in Spanish, but I understand that the goal of this trip was multifaceted and the main goal was not fluency. Having the program available to many levels of Spanish made the program more accessible to more people, but for me, committing to speaking in Spanish would have been really beneficial. I chose this program because of the critical lens the center projected, and this was reinforced throughout. We heard from many perspectives, many of whom I did not agree with, but which helped me practice understanding context and respecting multiple realities and understandings.

This program has provided me with cultural, linguistic, and societal experiences that go beyond the classroom. The experiential learning, reflection, and knowledge sharing challenged and affirmed my perspective on transnational politics, community engagement and mobilization, and the historical framework of religion. 10/10 would recommend!

This program delves into many issues that are not discussed in the US. Everything from US intervention to machismo and everything in between. This program allows for not only an cultural immersion but also an academic immersion. I have learned more than I ever imagined by participating in this program and I'm excited and determined to take back what I've learned.

There is no doubt that this is a truly unique program, exploring the heart of Central America and its most recent issues by traveling to Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua. It is rare enough that it is a program that travels to Nicaragua. But by traveling through three of these countries you are able to see how unique the area of Central America really is and understand the global implications caused by considering it a consolidated region when in reality every country within its area is completely different from one another. Each of these countries had its own people with different lifestyles and personalities, different geography, different structures. For being so close to one another, you would never believe how incredibly far apart they were in style and culture. Thus, there is something for everyone. While you are understanding the histories of each country, and taking courses in Spanish, theology, political science, you are learning so much more from the environment around you and the home stays you partake in. The program itself is great through providing insights into the various lifestyles and struggles that are depicted within each country.

For me, I had a lot of problems adjusting to the group. Going to a counselor really helped me. I wish there was more spaces to interact with other young people. I also wish there were more spaces outside of class to engage with the material.

This semester was absolutely beautiful. Surely it came along with its challenges, but this program really opens up space for personal growth in meaningful ways. Staying with families throughout the trip is an important means of immersing into the cultures and lived experiences of the countries you visit and people you meet. Ruth Garrido, Fidel Xinico Tum, and Cesar Acevedo (coordinators of this trip) are wonderful and an important part of making the program all that it is.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Central America during the Fall. The weather is just right, and was not too cold in Xela and not to unbearable hot in Managua either. I was so nervous for first host stay in Guatemala but stayed with such a lovely family that it made my transition to Central America so easy.

WOW WOW WOW. What a semester. 4 countries in 4 months. This semester challenged me in ways I could have never predicted but were so necessary for my self development. I was able to travel dozens of times to some of the most beautiful sites of this world. I am so grateful for the opportunity doing this particular program has afforded me. The various homestays were one of the best aspects of the program. I felt so welcomed and loved by each of my families and have made some of my favourite memories with those families. Huge shoutout to Ruth, our coordinator, who kept everyone alive and SANE. In a group of 6 it was hard to function at times, but Ruth kept us all going. Much love to you, Ruth. Be sure to bring her some dark chocolate if you come on this program :)

I have participated in two overseas trips: one in London with no homestays but rather apartments with fellow programmers, and the second, a CGEE program in Central America (Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua) with multiple homestays. I consider Central America the best abroad experience I have had thus far. My fellow Central America participants and I were able to visit three beautiful countries that were all very different from one another, offering a broader and more complex view of Central America, its history and the struggle and success of its peoples. I personally liked that we moved from country to country, but of course every goodbye was not easy. You’re in each country for a little longer than a month. But this gives you enough time to enjoy what each has to offer and to soak up as much knowledge as you can. I frequently went travelling on the weekends, which the program allows you to do. It is very easy to find friends to travel with among fellow participants, and the program staff is always more than willing to help you with transportation and give you suggestions. As a beginning Spanish learner with only one semester of Spanish completed prior to the trip, I found the intensive Spanish class in Guatemala very helpful; I loved my teacher and my host mom in Xela, and still talk to both of them today! All of the classes were manageable and we took many field trips which felt different from your average college class on campus, allowing us to see different part of the places we were in. I would say my Spanish improved one whole level at the end of the program; even though our classes were taught in English, living with host families that only spoke Spanish allowed you to practice your Spanish frequently. One aspect of CGEE that I loved was our homestays in rural communities. The rural homestays provide an intimacy that you don’t get in the more urban settings. In the end, I stayed with seven families total! Something that many other programs do not provide. If you are looking for a program that will immerse your whole life into multiple cultures through homestays, field trips, and conversations with locals and then transform your way of life back home with valuable life lessons and newly sparked passions, CGEE Central America is going to do a great job at that!

Could not have imagined a more amazing study abroad experience. I so very much admire the values of the program: from cultural immersion, to learning from real people, to traveling constantly. Incredible classes and material, I have learned an unbelievable amount, especially in Nicaragua. Plus, the material transitioned really well between countries. The home stays may very well be one of my favorite things about the experience. Through the good and bad, it was a really amazing experience to get a glimpse into the lives of families residing in the places we visited. I also really appreciate that we visited campos in each country, plus La Carpio, for experience in alternative ways of life.

The trip programming combined with homestay experience and the diversity and openness of everyone on the trip all contributed to a very fulfilling and enriching trip. The whole experience broadened my world view and was very fun.

I thoroughly enjoyed living in the rural communities and the main host families as well as hearing from a wide array of interesting and dynamic speakers. I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is curious about the world and want to form real connections with local families. Guatemala was my favorite country and I loved my host family in Xela!

Thank you to this incredible program for helping me grow and learn more than I knew was possible. This was like nothing I had ever done, like no other place or culture I had ever been immersed in. I will forever hold a deep love for this region in my heart. There is no doubt that this program challenged me and pushed me. Sometimes I was sad, hurt, confused, frustrated...but I was also inspired, in awe, thankful, appreciative...I am so thankful to have had this time here, with these people, living with these families, in these countries. It was where I was meant to be, at this time, and for every time, for every moment, sad and hard and good and incredible, I say thanks. Every story I heard, every new reality I lived in, will stay with me always. Although I can never tell these stories or claim life here as my own, I can share what little but what profound I was able to learn and understand. There is infinite beauty in the finite. I hope with these experiences and stories, I can continue to be inspired and inspire others.

Incredible experience abroad. We started off with learning Spanish in an immersion class in which I made an close friend with my teacher. Then Liberation Theology started a revolution of thought in which we were challenged to stand with groups of oppressed. In Nicaragua studying history and political science leaves us with inspiration to go out and join the battle to change the global system.

This program has made an incredible impact on my life. Though it was personally challenging at certain points, these challenges have made me a better person. Thanks to this program, I have been able to learn how to be a global citizen, how to create social change both as an agent and also as an ally who can stand in solidarity with those who are fighting to change their systems, and how to truly connect with people who are completely different from me.

I loved the experience, and I am so happy to have this opportunity. I learned so much about myself, others, and the world, or should I say some countries In central America. I hope to carry all the lessons I learned back home with me and share them with my family and friends. My only criticism I would give is not being exposed to the Black/ African descendants who also make up central America. Other than that I admired my time here, and I recommend to anyone contemplating on coming or not, to come and experience the "backyard" of the United States.

This program is LIFE CHANGING. I definitely recommend it to people looking to be challenged, pushed to their limits, while at the same time learning how to pursue social change, and have fun. If you are looking to embark on a life changing journey, this is your program.

This is a phenomenal program that implements the lessons it teaches into its teaching style and ethic. I was consistently impressed by the respectful way in which we traveled and learned, and I felt supported and safe with our guide, Ruth.

This program was truly life changing in ways that I cannot fully explain. However be prepared for the intense academic courses. My all time favorite part were the homestays for you are given the opportunity to fully engage with them and hear their personal stories. The groups projects allows you to also explore and research deeper into a topic you are passionate about. It is a program that is changes your way of seeing the world completely with its many speakers, classes, trips, and projects.

This program has exceptional staff (Ruth! and Ceasar) and you have so many different experiences getting to know so many facets of the cultures, health and safety are a difficult reality that you understand and live with as do the people here. It is hard to feel safe in a female body and I often felt confined to my home or spaces where I knew I would be safe. This is also a reality of Central America for the women who live here. This program overall has made me think about things in a way that i never had, through the other students as well as the program facilitated events.

There is no question that this semester program is 'an experience', in every sense of the word. You will experience ups a downs. You will eat delicious food and you will force down things you never want to eat again. You will meet people who become compañeros, travel companions, family, or life long friends. You will experience love and heartbreak. You will want to stay, but you will always move on too soon. You will experience a semester you can never forget.

Overall, the experience was incredibly interesting. While moving so often was exhausting, it really provided a well rounded perspective of the three Central American countries we visited. I enjoyed meeting a large variety of people throughout the trip.

The program directors were awesome. I greatly enjoyed speaking with them and spending time with them. They offered great insight and were always readily available. They always helped with a smile. Love Ruth and Cesar!

I would recommend this program to any student interested in social justice, Latin America, or improving Spanish skills without already being at the university level. The program is incredible and lived up to every expectation that I had. Ruth, the facilitator who travels with the group, is outstanding and every in-country coordinator who we had was great too. The Spanish portion of the program in Guatemala forces students, beginners to near-fluent speakers, to work and improve on their Spanish. We were the first group (Fall 2015) to study at Casa Xelaju, a Spanish school, and I loved the school. Not only do you spend at least 5 hours a day working on a personalized plan of study, but our group also became close with our teachers, creating a social network that we could return to in Xela. In Costa Rican portion of the trip was the least impressive to most of the students here. However, the home stays in this country, at Longo Mai and La Carpio, are some of the most phenomenal weekends of the trip. This opportunity to learn about different areas of life in Costa Rica, first in the countryside and then in one of the poorest neighborhoods of San Jose, is unique and invaluable. Generally for the Fall program, the break is in between Costa Rica and Nicaragua. The break is a great opportunity to travel more in Central America; another student and I made the bus trek down to Panama City and then over to Bocas del Toro, an incredible experience. Nicaragua, the longest portion of the trip, was my favorite (though many others on my trip would rate Guatemala higher). Studying Nicaraguan politics and recent history while living with people who were and are directly affected by the the events is incredible. I was in a small group of only 7 students. Generally the Fall semester is smaller. I personally really enjoyed the experience with such a small amount of students, but depending on the group, I could see how this could really affect the experience. I would keep in the mind this size of the group, the fact that the Spring break doesn't always fall in between Costa Rica and Nicaragua, and the weather (apparently more extreme in the Spring -- much colder in Guatemala, much hotter in Nicaragua). CGE is a socially conscious organization that lives up to its ideals with action. Engagement with the culture is expected and facilitated in each country, the money for the home stays families is always a reasonable amount (in comparison to other organizations our host families work with), and group sessions and reflections are included throughout the program, both to check in on the students and speak more about the current environment. I have been continually impressed by CGE and its actions. Again, I have no reservations recommending this program. If you'd like more information, feel free to email me at [email protected]

I highly recommend this program to anyone who is remotely interested in getting to know a country intimately, Central America, and/ or interested in human right issues. I loved this program, from the staff, to the locations, to the other students. My overall experience was beyond positive and I cannot express enough how happy I am to have found and chosen this program. The staff especially are amazing and try so hard to foster an environment of love and support. The program honestly would not be the same without Ruth, Cesar, and Fidel. If you have any questions about the program feel free to contact me at [email protected] or [email protected] !

For every concept I have learnt in a textbook, I have a parallel face and story. Travelling with CGE is an incredible experience where learning stretches beyond the confines of the classroom, reinforced by speakers and stories that you would never be able to find on your own. It is one thing to learn about war, and another to live with the families directly affected by it. You are hopping from country to country, learning from each place. Yet at the same time, you get the chance to build long-lasting connections with your host families and communities around you. I could read something in the classroom one morning, and be talking about the exact same experience over dinner that night. It’s all one long, open-ended learning process. This CGE is a phenomenal example of experiential education, where I could put aside the grades, and focus instead on delving into issues and topics I cared about. At every point, CGE asks you to make the connection between theory and your own personal life, creating an educational experience that just feels incredibly relevant. In every country, we have met with speakers, professors and families who opened up and shared their lives with you, teaching us how to fall in love with this part of the world.

I would highly recommend this program for people who don't want a traditional study abroad program. It's a great trip for learning Spanish (great for beginners too!), getting immersed and experiencing many different Central American cultures. Not only do you get to visit three different countries you also get to see what the lives of the people that live there is truly like. You get to live with many different host families, both rural and urban, which was my favorite part of the trip. Another strong aspect of the trip is the way the classes are set up. They include experiential learning which includes; lectures, guest speakers, out of classroom trips, etc. I loved being able to take what we learned outside of the classroom and bringing what we learned outside the classroom in. The classes are engaging and set up in a non-traditional way, which makes learning more fun! The staff that work with CGE are amazing, attentive and easily become friends. They truly care about what the students need and want. We got to do a lot of fun things (that is covered by the cost) that made traveling fun and comforatble. CGE plans some group trips but there is plenty of time to do some short trips of your own to further explore the country. If you are ready for an Central American adventure, I would say choose this program!

Loved the program. I am the first student from the U of R to participate in this program and will be actively encouraging my fellow students to consider this program for next Fall and beyond. This was an unforgettable experience. A journey like no other. I am very grateful I attended this program it has given me a lot to think about and has inspired me to participate even more actively in social justice causes at home.

I had a very positive experience with the Center for Global Education while studying in Central America. The opportunity to enter with very little Spanish sets it apart from other study abroad programs in Spanish-speaking countries. I was able to come in with less than a semester's equivalent and still make connections with locals after my experience at the language school. Overall, I wish there could've been a bit more free time or space for exploration, but at the same time, the program took me to places and introduced me to people that I probably wouldn't have otherwise.

This has been a fantastic experience! I would definitely encourage others to look into CGE study abroad in the future. This has been a fantastic experience! I would definitely encourage others to look into CGE study abroad in the future.

This was a life changing program. The incredible speakers, homestays, teachers and experiences during this program have really given shape to a complex and humanizing understanding of Central America - its history, politics, and people. Would recommend to those looking to push themselves out of their comfort zone to ask challenging questions about social privilege and political activism. This program teaches you how to ask good questions, interview and research topics of your choice and create lasting friendships with homestay families and other students. So grateful for the opportunity to travel with this program!

Studying abroad through the CGE program has taught me a lot about social justice In Central America. This program students spend time in Guatemala Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Studying social justice has really changed the way I presive the world because of the emersove envirrment that we have been exposed to. We went to multiple communities while we have been abroad which have each shown me that most of the world is not like the U.S. And that it's actually a very different place that I had smack we. Our host families where part of the exeience because we where always emerged in the language. The classes where spanish that was taught in Guatemala, theory of liberation in Costa Rica and women study's and political science in Nicaragua. The class that challenged me the most was theory of liberation which is a religion course because I really had to think onside of the box. This trip has really changed how I am because of the people I have met and the experiances that I had. This trip is one of the best dessisions that I have made.

Overall the program was amazing and i couldn't have asked for a better semester. The teachers and staff were great from the beginning. Shout out to Ruth and always taking care of us!!! This has changed me as an indivual and i hope teach others from what i have learned.

Amazing community in batahola norte loved living here for 6 weeks. We got to experience the openness and love pouring out of Central America, and we got to see what the differences are in what we thought we know and what really happened.

This program has been completely life changing. It has pushed me and made me see the world in new ways. I have met so many amazing speakers and stayed with such amazing generous families. It has showed me so much about social justice and about Latin America.

Despite the constant moving around I feel I got to connect to each Central American country very closely. You will not become fluent in Spanish over the semester and we are in each place for too small an amount of time to make random local friends, but my Spanish definitely improved and I think I learned a lot from my host families. It can be a tiring semester but this program will teach you a lot about yourself, where you are at and where you have come from.

This program has completely changed the direction of my life. You have access to so much and if you commit yourself to it, you will get SO much out of this experience. Some moments of this program have been hard for me, I'll admit. But those moments have pushed me and made me grow. This program isn't one that'll just let you live a normal comfortable semester, just in another country. You will be exposed to so many amazing first-hand experiences, brilliant speakers, and loving, generous family stays. If you want a socially aware, anti-exploitation and anti-oppression program, choose this one.

I had an absolutely amazing time during my stay in Central America with CGE. The memories that I made during those four months that I spent in Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua will be ones that I cherish for the rest of my life Highlights: -I stayed with some wonderful host families in each country. I learned so much from them, and I formed lasting relationships. -I greatly improved my Spanish skills via the class in Guatemala, conversation with host families, listening to speakers, and navigating through Central America. -Ruth (the travel coordinator for the program) is WONDERFUL. She's like the mom of the group and she takes care of any need that you may have. -I thought there was a nice balance of studying yet still getting to travel and explore each country. In both Costa Rica and Nicaragua, most weekends are open for students to travel as they please. I throughouly enjoyed these short excursions to various cities within the country we stayed in. Spring Break also provided a much needed break. Lowpoints: -Students frequently experienced illness. This was nothing terrible, but is just a result of traveling so much and drinking/eating certain foods. -Sometimes the group dynamic was a bit intense. We were a large group of 17 people, and not all the personalities meshed well. This was probably my least favorite part of the program.

We studied social Justice in Central America and also learned about the current economic situation and the political situation in the countries we visited. We first stayed in Guatemala for over a month and this experience studying spanish at a local school and staying with a family. Each family that I stayed with in the three countries where all very different in their family dynamics and in their political views however, they each taught me different lessons which are all very valuable in my opinion. In the spanish school we leaned about Guatemala's history and the wars that occurred all in spanish which was a very good immersive experience. During our time abroad we wen't on multiple trips to far out communities to learn their ways which really drove the fact home about immersing ourselves in the culture. In Costa Rica I stayed with a family that was a little bit larger. At the school in Costa Rica we took a class called the theory of liberation which was a class that had to do with religion. This class had everyone thinking outside of the box and it was overall a very hard concept to grasp for most of the class. The CGE program does a lot of excursions and keeps the students very busy learning about the culture and making sure they are immersed in the culture fully. The villages that we went to in Costa Rica where more impoverished than the others which was very important for me to se because it challenged my view of the world and made me question my living situation because it is so different from that in the village. In Nicaragua we too two courses one of which was women studies and the other being political science. these courses made me see the history of the wars and the struggle women have here in Nicaragua. The community that went to which was called "Mira Flor" was very beautiful but secluded which was a perfect learning environment to learn about the people and history of that community. It just another opportunity where the program is immersing you in the culture. The family I stayed with was a big family where everyone was coming and going however there was always people to talk to so your spanish is definitely used. Coming to Central America has changed my view on the world and when I get back to the U.S I won't be surprised If I view many things differently that when I left. Taking the opportunity to go on a trip like this Is definitely one of the best decisions that I have made. I have meet so many people and had so many experiences that I would not have had if I had not come on this trip.

I had a very positive experience with the Center for Global Education while studying in Central America. The opportunity to enter with very little Spanish sets it apart from other study abroad programs in Spanish-speaking countries. I was able to come in with less than a semester's equivalent and still make connections with locals after my experience at PLQ. Overall, I wish there could've been a bit more free time or space for exploration but the program also took me to places and introduced me to people that I probably wouldn't have otherwise. It definitely challenged me both emotionally and academically.

I chose this program because it basically offered everything that I wanted out of my semester abroad. Luckily I was mostly right in what I thought that I wanted. The opportunity to travel to Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua was a struggle at times but a really unique and valuable experience at the same time. Guatemala and Nicaragua were especially cool countries to get to live in. All of the "rural" homestays were amazing experiences and opportunities to see communities that most people don't get to meet. My favorite class was definitely the one-on-one language course in Guatemala. But each course introduced us to interesting perspectives. The family I stayed with in Nicaragua really became a second home for me and is a definite highlight of the trip for me. All the homestays were a learning experience and I have important memories from each. To anyone considering this program, I would advise two things. One, that you really think about how much you want to be moving around or if you really want to connect to one place. One of the hardest things about this program was definitely how many goodbyes had to be said. Two, this is not an immersion program for Spanish. Once you're in Costa Rica and Nicaragua with the classes in English, you really have to take the personal initiative to practice Spanish in your homes and on your own if you want to keep improving your Spanish skills. All that being said, I am so happy with my choice and my time in the program!

I found this program to be an incredible asset to my undergraduate studies. The classes teach and challenge students to grow and become informed citizens and active participants in the change they seek. We learned experientially through engaging activities and speakers, acquired new knowledge about Central American countries and the people that make them up. We took classes in spanish, women's history, liberation theology and political science. They each added different aspects to our learning processes and had an incredible effect on our own thought processes. Still, you get out of the courses the work you put into them. If you don't try hard, you won't learn as much. Ruth and the program coordinators made this program an even better experience than it could have been. Ruth is the perfect person to be the coordinator and travel with us and made me feel comfortable in every circumstance. I didn't think that the Cantel aspect of the program was necessary to be as long as it was. Half of our 17-student group got sick and I didn't think it was worth going overnight given the health-risks. Those of us needing medical attention spent more than necessary getting the help that we needed because of the days we were in Cantel. Still, I absolutely loved this program and found it to be a great part of my undergraduate studies, and will look back on this time with the best of memories, great friendships and a period where I grew in important and necessary ways.

Ruth is the best part of this program!!!!! She truely made the experience a great one for me and helped me out when I needed it. The teachers need a lot of work. I had low expectations for the professors and they did not even meet those.

This program is a great way to get an in-depth understanding of social change in central america. You will get to experience many different living styles, from urban to rural, and have the opportunity to speak with many people from all walks of life. Being in a small group of fellow travelers, though it may get difficult at some times, is an excellent way to further understand life in a foreign country because it allows for reflection and discussion. The program director, Ruth, is amazing and super supportive! She was really great at helping me navigate my dietary restrictions, and understanding of any problems. I have made some really great friends on this program and would definitely go back again!

Overall, the programme was fun and informative. It was a very colourful experience made better by fantastic coordinators. There were plenty of places that we visited in all three countries and each one was very unique, providing new lenses through which we could see the world we live in. At times, it was difficult to juggle appreciation of the activities and talks with the work that we were given.

This program offers amazing opportunities to uncover the reality of life in Central America by taking students to hear directly from and to live with people from a variety of backgrounds throughout the region. However, I would not recommend this program to someone whose main motive for studying abroad is improving their Spanish. Beyond the outstanding one on one instruction at el Proyecto Linguistico Quetzalteco and conversations with host families, the program is very much English dominated. Courses are conducted entirely in English and all guest speakers are translated simultaneously into English, which makes the program very welcoming to students with minimal Spanish experience, but not to those who want to be more consistently challenged in their Spanish learning.

Great program! The trip coordinators and the families welcomed me with arms wide open and provided a very memorable experience. All of the traveling within the countries and the learning experience was very special. I felt that each day spent there was a gift, and not a given right.

This program was incredibly effective at forcing the students to look at their lives and how their luxury has formed a bubble around them. Many of the students were interested in healthy eating and sex education, but never really understood that their are no Whole Foods stores here and other such luxuries. For me one of the hardest things to handle was just how uncomfortable people in the group were uncomfortable people were without luxuries like air conditioning and fresh vegetables.

This was a wonderful, transformative trip that really caters to people of all interests and backgrounds. A great program to improve your spanish, talk to people who have lived through and helped shape history, as well as take in beautiful sights and sounds (and delicious food!) of this diverse and complex region.

There were so many memorable experiences! Probably visiting a cooperative farm in El Salvador called Nueva Esperanza. There our group heard the heart wrenching stories of the community, as well as how they had worked to build a new life and learn about their community now and where they were headed in their future. I went on a 2 week J-term first through the same program. I found the organization of the program so wonderful that it inspired me to want learn more about social justice and other issues in the country, that I signed up for more. This first trip really was the tipping point in my current career path.

With this program you are not just studying while in another country. You are studying the countries that you are in. That may seem like a subtle difference, but really it means everything. There are few other programs where you will get an experience of this quality. Keep in mind that it is rigorous - your days are filled with class, speakers, trips, and time with your host families. I've never learned so much in 4 months, and I've also never met such incredible, supportive, fun people. I absolutely recommend this program to anyone who really wants to immerse themselves in Central American culture.

This program is for those interested in honestly studying justice and injustice. It brings together an impressive number of meaningful speakers, excursions, and home-stays to expose us students to diverse perspectives and authentic experiential learning. One of the greatest strengths of the program is it does not let you stagnant, you keep moving and it forces you to stay in the moment, it prevents the study abroad trip from vanishing like a blur. However, the moving does not make long term relationships with the local people easy. As always, the relationships and experiences are what you make of them, your own volition is key. The classes are put together well and the sequential nature works well. In my opinion, the most important piece though, is that their is respect for the interests of individuals in the group. If you feel it makes more sense of your education, to spend more time with a host family and less time studying, that decision will be respected. Class will not wait for you of course, but the respect is there. This program is full of open doors, and while you have to be the one to walk through, the opportunities are authentic and accessible.

This program truly has life-changing potential for all students who participate in it, because they are thrust into the struggles of those fighting for social justice in Central America. It gives a solid grounding in historical backgrounds and introduces particular subjects in depth that relate to the issues of the region. What makes the program special is the rural stays which literally allow students to talk oppressed individuals and those who have achieved successful community alternatives in rural settings. The contacts that CGE has to offer as resources for students is incredible.

This was a fantastic program overall - so much adventure and learning in three beautiful countries that are rich with history and culture. I highly reccommend it to anyone interested in the region, in issues of social justice, and those who are looking to really have a close encounter with the cultures and peoples of these countries. We were pretty much constantly on the go, with lots to see and do. Students who are interested in learning about the social unrest that has affected the lives of Latin Americans should definitely consider this program. The speakers, weekend visits, urban and rural homestays, and the incredible connections with the small group are some things that set this trip apart from other abroad programs.

"Social Change in Central America: Exploring Peace, Justice and Community Engagement" is an engaging, activity-filled semester in which I had the opportunity to hear many different perspectives about the history, culture and politics of Central America. For example, in the context of the armed conflict in Guatemala, we heard the perspectives of an ex-guerrilla fighter, a member of the Guatemalan army, and a civilian who was affected by the war. This program enhanced my understanding of the region and of the complexity and contradiction that exists within history. I think this program is ideal for anyone who is interested in learning about social justice in Latin America, and especially for students who are still learning Spanish. If you're already fluent or near-fluent the program will also be a good fit, but the great thing for people who are not as advanced in Spanish is that the program will accommodate all ability levels of Spanish (for example, meetings are translated into English). I think one of the highlights of this program is that throughout the semester, students have the opportunity to visit many different parts of three countries in Central America: Guatemala, Costa Rica (or El Salvador, depending on the semester), and Nicaragua. In each country, we stayed with one family for the majority of the time and did short homestays in other parts of the country. In addition to our three primary homestays, we visited a rural area in Guatemala, a co-operative land project in Costa Rica, an urban immigrant community in Costa Rica, and a rural coffee co-operative in Nicaragua. I would recommend this program to anyone who is at all interested in learning more about the history and politics of Central America--no prior knowledge about Central American history is necessary. This program does a fantastic job of presenting many different perspectives. If you choose this program, be prepared to challenge many of your assumptions, think critically about the world, and see yourself as an agent for change.

This program provides an incredible opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and politics of Central America. Well-organized, thought-out, and jam packed, this program is wonderful both for those already well-versed in Central America's history, and for students with little to no exposure to the topic. Through the combination of courses, speakers, trips, and home stays I felt that this program was wonderfully comprehensive. The staff throughout the trip are friendly and approachable and support you during your entire journey. Studying abroad in three countries offers some great advantages; I am coming away from this program grateful that I have a better sense not only of Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua, but of the relationships between these countries and of Central America as a whole. If you are up for a program that will cause you to challenge and question your views, will force you to think critically, and will involve equally fun and thoughtful experiences, then I would recommend this program.

If you want to take a trip that will challenge you, introduce you to new perspectives, and give you lots of opportunities to learn outside of the classroom then this is the trip for you. Moving through 3 different countries in a semester makes the trip feel fast paced and you will not get bored. It is not your typical study abroad experience in that you do not have much freedom to travel on your own and plan your own activities but the opportunities to do these things do exist and you should take advantage of them. That being said I would not trade the packed schedule for one with more freedom because we met with so many cool people and organizations and my learning was amplified by these meetings, experiences, and travels within the country. I can confidently say that I learned more on this trip than I have during any semester at school.

This trip was absolutely incredible. It changed the way I think, see, and act towards my surroundings. My whole world was rocked by this trip in the best way possible and I am taking away so much from it. It isn't as easy as a trip to Europe or Australia, but it is 100% more fulfilling and life changing. Going on this adventure was the best decision I have ever made!

I am international student studying in the USA. This semester was studying abroad-abroad for me, and I loved it in every way. The program will push you, gently, out of your confort zones and allow you to see and experience different styles of lives in different locations. Keep in mind that you will also be spoiled at times in this beautiful part of the world! volcanos, lakes, mountains. hourses, beaches ...etc This program will allow you to understand the impact that the USA and other forigen nations have on Central America. Experinces like this allow us to open out hearts and understand one another. Be a global citizen and come!

The program was a good way to learn about Central America

great opportunity to see Central America and Learn so much.

This program was great for exploring different cultures within Central America. Because we traveled to Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua, we were able to compare and contrast the social, economic, and political landscapes of each. We were pushed outside of our comfort zones and encouraged to take risks while being supported by a caring staff all the way. My two main qualms with the program were a lack of freedom and ability to practice Spanish. The program was very structured and scheduled, and we were not able to explore each of the countries as much as I would have liked. On the other hand, because of the activities we did as a group, I met people and stayed places I would not have known. One of my reasons for coming on the program was to learn and practice Spanish. While my ability to understand and speak Spanish certainly improved over the course of the semester, I still have a LONG way to go. It was difficult to practice because, aside from in Guatemala, our classes were in English and we were surrounded by other English-speaking students throughout the day. I wish more time to practice Spanish was worked into the program. Overall, I would recommend this program to people who want to compare and contrast cultures and who like adventure. It had its flaws, but it was a transformative experience.

This program was an amazing experience for me. It challenged me to go out of my comfort zone, while at the same time providing security. I learned so much, and coming back to the U.S., my views are completely different because I have had the opportunity to observe and participate directly in communities in Guatemala, Costa Rica and Nicaragua. I met amazing people while I was in this program, and I would do it again in a split second.

Great program, very interesting to compare the different countries. Always well taken care of by the program. Ruth is the best!