Connection and Community Health in Buenos Aires

Why did you choose to study abroad in Buenos Aires?

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I decided to do this program for a few reasons. One, I knew I needed to get major credit, and these classes would help with my Global Health major, so that was awesome. Two, I really wanted to be in a Spanish-speaking country to develop greater fluency in the language. And three, I didn’t have my heart set on the typical Europe study abroad experience; I was excited by the thought of going somewhere new and different and getting outside of the Duke bubble for a bit. This program checked all those boxes—and so many more.

How did the experience help you grow? 

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First of all, my Spanish skills have improved immensely. It was definitely challenging to take all of my classes in Spanish and live in a homestay, but it was so incredibly rewarding. Academically, I went from zero knowledge of the Argentine healthcare system to a pretty thorough understanding, learning both from people who work within the system and those who use the system.

I also developed new personal skills and more knowledge about myself—for example, the routines that I like to develop in order to feel comfortable living in a new place. My greatest personal takeaway is that you can do anything and live anywhere if you have a good attitude and are willing to be a little uncomfortable.

What class activity made a big impression on you?

One of my favorite excursions was during our time in Tigre, when we traveled through the Delta for a few hours with members of a cooperative in the area, called Cooperativa Isla Esperanza. This organization works to protect people’s rights to their land in the Delta in the constant fight against housing developers and other companies that threaten their livelihood.

We learned about their efforts to reclaim property, maintain the health of the ecosystem, and cope with the rising tourism. It was so special to pass through these waters and learn from someone who works so passionately every day to protect the land.

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There were moments of stark realizations—when jet skis would zoom past or we’d see a grand house newly built next to a home without running water or electricity that had been there for years and years—and also of pure humanity and connection, like when we all gathered at one of the cooperative’s meeting spaces and shared mate and a merienda. I am so grateful for this experience and what it taught me about the relationship between environmental health and human health, as well as the hard work and sacrifice that these people endure to maintain their connection to their land.

Where did you love spending time in Buenos Aires?

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I absolutely adored the neighborhood I lived in—it’s called Caballito and it is a little outside of the center of the city but still lively. It felt homey and a little calmer than some other neighborhoods.

Out of all the places I got to explore, I fell in love with the parks, especially one called Parque Centenario. I went on runs around the park, walked through the park when talking on the phone, hung out with friends in the park—it was my spot. I loved being in the same space as all the normal people who live in Caballito, and I eventually came to feel like one of them.

What advice do you have for future students?  

I would say DO IT! I have had such an incredible experience in all facets of the program—academically, personally, socially, professionally. I could not be more grateful for the people I have met, things I have learned, and experiences I have had.

This program was better than I ever could have imagined. And now Buenos Aires is at the top of my list for places to live later in my life!