This spring break I had an incredible opportunity to study abroad in Oaxaca, Mexico with the International Engagement in Mexico program. I am very grateful for the generosity of the Office for Education Abroad for awarding me a scholarship to support my journey. This experience was truly remarkable and inspiring.

In this program I had the opportunity to serve the community. We volunteered with other MSU students in a preschool where we painted murals, planted plants, painted basketball and soccer courts. We also interacted and bonded with the children in the school.

Being able to complete the service projects and serve this community was transformative and inspiring. The community in which we served was truly the definition of a community. Everyone was very welcoming and kind. The hospitality that we received from the whole community was very heartwarming. Everyone within the community would come together and support one other. This taught me the importance and value of having unity in a community.

This experience enhanced my personal growth, leadership, communication, and adaptability skills. I was able to put myself in situations that pushed me out of my comfort zone and improve my skills. Every day was captivating and a learning experience.

I learned a lot about myself and the culture in Oaxaca. I got to witness and immerse myself with the deep culture of Oaxaca. I got to learn and experience first-hand many different Indigenous backgrounds, cultures, traditions, and languages. I got to see wedding celebrations and performances that were happening downtown. I learned new traditional dances, music, and tasted unique and distinct cultural food.

As a Mexican American myself I understand and speak Spanish so I was able to communicate and understand what people would say. However, even though I am fluent in Spanish, studying abroad in a different region of Mexico that I haven't been to before, the accent was different. I was also able to learn new words and phrases in Oaxaca that I have not heard of before. Not only was I able to enhance my communication and Spanish speaking skills from learning new phrases in Spanish, but I was also translating for other MSU students. This improved my communication skills and encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone.

Every day in Oaxaca was captivating, inspiring and a transformative experience. This program was an amazing experience and it inspired me to continue to participate in study abroad programs in the future.

Name: Jocelin Lamas
Status: Freshman
Major: Human Biology
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan
Program: International Engagement in Oaxaca, Mexico