Thanks to the Kevin Williams ’10 Endowed Memorial Fellowship, I embarked on a life-changing study abroad experience last spring in Peru. More than just a semester away, it was a profound journey into my Latin American roots and an opportunity to connect with the Indigenous cultures that define the region.
As a Chilean student majoring in geography and Africana and Latin American studies, I had always thought of Peru as a dream destination. This aspiration became a reality through the School for International Training program Indigenous Peoples and Globalization. From the vibrant streets of Cusco to the serene landscapes of Lake Titicaca and the Peruvian Amazon, my time in Peru was filled with unforgettable moments.
Before heading to Peru, I spent winter break in Chile with family and fulfilled another dream: visiting Mendoza, Argentina. A 10-hour bus ride across the majestic Andes brought me to this charming city, where I reconnected with an old friend. Mendoza’s rich culture, history, and stunning scenery left a lasting mark on me, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.
In February, I began my semester in Peru, where immersive learning shaped every step of the journey. Living with a host family in Cusco, I explored the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the ancient ruins of Sacsayhuamán; I hiked the Kinsa Cocha trail and Rainbow Mountain. Standing amidst Machu Picchu, I felt the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization come alive.
Another major highlight was our excursion to Lake Titicaca, where we visited the Uros people on their floating totora reed islands. On Taquile Island, I stayed with a local family, sharing meals, stories, and laughter at nearly 13,000 feet above sea level. I joined in their daily routines, sowing potatoes, grazing sheep, and learning about their intricate textiles, gaining a deep appreciation for their way of life.
The highlight of my time abroad was conducting independent research in the Peruvian Amazon. Based in the native community of Infierno, I studied the impact of ecotourism on swidden garden practices and indigenous worldviews. The Amazon’s vibrant ecosystem, from capybaras and caimans to colorful birds and dense rainforests, offered an awe-inspiring backdrop for my research. The support of the fellowship was instrumental in making this work possible, allowing me to immerse myself in the challenges and resilience of these communities facing globalization.
Reflecting on my semester abroad, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for support from the Williams family and the geography department. This transformative experience deepened my understanding of Indigenous cultures, broadened my perspectives on globalization, and inspired me to live more consciously and compassionately. My journey through Chile, Argentina, and Peru was not only an academic and cultural exploration, but also a deeply personal one. It carried Kevin’s legacy of adventure and connection, reminding me to cherish every moment and forge meaningful relationships. Thank you to the Williams family for enabling students like me to honor Kevin’s memory in such impactful ways.