History Study Abroad Programs in Cusco, Peru

During the spring Semester of 2024 I got the chance to study abroad with ISA in Cusco Peru. During my time there I stayed with a host family in their apartment. My host family only knew Spanish so I was lucky enough to get to practice my Spanish speaking skills with them. I also met my best friend in Cusco and became close with their host family also. Because I got to get to know all these people and me and my friend were both heritage speakers we got to have a very authentic experience. Despite Latin America being known as dangerous I never felt or faced any danger when in Cusco. The program was structured very well every day (except the weekend) we got to go to two classes and then during the afternoons we got to be independent and roam around the city to explore stuff on our own. In addition there were also days where our ISA professors would take us on field trips. For example one of our professors (professor alberto) took us to many different places such as saquesaywaman and San Pedro market. In addition the program also took us to Machu Picchu and Madre de Dios (a section of the amazon rainforest) For spring break me and my friend also got to travel independently to Lima and Paracas.

When I decided to study abroad in Cusco, Peru, I was nervous. It was my first time away from home, and I didn’t know what to expect. Being met at the airport by my advisors helped me settle in quickly. Soon after, I met my host mom and roommates, and I could already tell leaving would be hard. Cusco was a beautiful city, and people were open about sharing their culture. I took weaving and dance classes, visited Inca sites, and attended Inti Raymi. I also got altitude sickness hiking Rainbow Mountain, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying the trip. I had a caring host family, helpful staff, and professors who knew their field. I built strong friendships and made lasting connections. Machu Picchu was incredible, but the real highlight was feeling comfortable and at home in a place so different from where I’m from.