Megan Woodruff

Megan Woodruff is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Guatemala.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.

I experienced something new each day while in Guatemala, but if I have to pick one thing, I'd choose my volunteer work. I worked in a rural school, teaching English to two classes of fourth graders. There were 40 students in each class. This school had very, very few resources. As a future teacher this experience was very eye opening to see such large classrooms with nothing in them except for forty desks. Since it was a rural area in a third world country, it was very important to see the conditions in which some students learn.

Why did you choose the program in which you participated?

The language was the main reason I wanted to study abroad in Guatemala. Being forced to speak Spanish and learn with one on one instruction was very important to me. The Latin American culture has always been interesting to me, and I wanted to experience it first hand, I wanted to be part of the culture. I was also very turned on by the volunteer opportunities Guatemala offered, not all programs offer that and it was a great way to practice the Spanish I had learned. I also knew that living in Guatemala would be cheaper than many other options. Although this was not a deciding factor, it was important to think about how much money I would be spending.

Describe your overall study abroad experience.

Study Abroad was an amazing experience that I hope everyone gets the chance to do at some point in there life. It was filled with so many good times and memories and a life of a new culture that I could never have experienced in Minnesota

How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?

This trip was one of the best experiences of my life. After the semester in Guatemala, I am more confident in myself and in my ability to speak (and in turn teach) Spanish. I made many new friends and have made memories that will last a lifetime.

What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?

Don't hold back - do what you want, when you want. Meet new people, do new things and LEARN about your country. Have fun, but be aware of your surroundings and be safe!