Bryan School Study Abroad Program
Teecheyaw Anderson
Tec de Monterrey in Cuernavaca, Mexico
Expectations
I grew up around many different cultures, which sparked my interest to continue learning more about
different cultures and also how those cultures interact within their own country. Iwas especially
interested in the Hispanic culture because I admired their ways of dancing, food, and the strong
relationship with family and friends. By studying abroad in Mexico, I was hoping to better understand
the relationships between families and how my culture differs from theirs. One of the most important
factors that helped me decide to go to Mexico was my desire to improve my Spanish speaking skills,
but the experience exposed me to many other values that I didn’t even realize that I was
learning.
Classes
While I was in Mexico I took 4 classes. One of the classes was a business course, which helped me
learn how business is done differently in Mexico. I also took three other courses that dealt with
Spanish culture and literature. The courses in Mexico were set up completely different from those
at UNCG, but once I adjusted to their methods I learned to really like them. The professors were
extremely nice and they made all the students feel very comfortable because they were very
approachable. I was able to learn a great deal from my courses, but I also consider all of the
friends that I met in my classes a positive attribute.
Accommodations
I lived off-campus in a student inn with eight other students from all over the world. I loved
living in the student inn because it was very close to campus and my roommates were very welcoming.
I was able to prepare my own food, but the family would also cook for us, so we had the opportunity
to try traditional Mexican food. I began to develop close relationships with the other students
and it felt like a family. Luckily, there was easily accessible public transportation, which
allowed me to travel freely throughout the city. I was very happy about my choices for my
accommodations because they turned out to be everything I had hoped for.
Campus Activities
I was able to get involved in many activities on campus, for example the weekly dance classes.
One of the highlights of my semester was the dance performance that we gave to the entire student
body. I also helped organize a fashion show on campus that allowed me to work with the local Mexican
students and make new friends. The university hosted several trips that I went on and we traveled
to other parts of Mexico. Throughout the week, after my homework was completed, I had plenty of
time to hang out with friends and get to know the city. The students at the campus were friendly
and they would help us out when we had questions.
Advice
- Save your money so you can go on trips.
- Try to research and apply for all available scholarships.
- Make Mexican friends and practice your Spanish as much as possible.
- Be aware of culture shock and plan on how to deal with it.
What I have learned about myself.
By studying how business is done in Mexico, I was able to improve my Spanish skills while learning
new business styles. I also learned many things about myself during my trip. One important aspect
that I realized is that I am much stronger than I thought I was. I also noticed that I am very
persistent in obtaining my goals. I found out more about myself and what I want to do in life
while I was in Mexico because I had the chance to think. I would definitely recommend studying
abroad to any student because this experience has shaped my life for the future.