Ease of Mind and Comfortability Traveling with CEA CAPA 

When traveling to a new country, let alone a new place, I tend to feel more comfortable knowing who I am staying with and being in communication with the folks I will be working with. My experience with CEA CAPA was just that. My advisor for my study abroad experience in Valparaíso, Chile, was Claudia. As soon as we were provided with contact information to email or message her about any questions regarding studying abroad in Chile, housing accommodations, academic accommodations, or class selection, she became the direct person we contacted. Later, I learned she would also lead us on our CEA CAPA exclusive excursions. These excursions helped us better understand the history of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso, Chile. Not only did we visit the “cerros” or hills of Valparaíso, seeing the many street dogs, friendly people, and wonderful artwork plastered on the walls of the city, but we also enjoyed delicious food such as empanadas with meat, cheese, or shellfish. 

Our CEA CAPA Excursion to Isla Negra to See One of Pablo Neruda’s Houses 

Just from the tours of the historic “cerros of Valparaíso,” I quickly learned and understood the juxtaposition of this city: not only was it a beautiful place filled with artisanal handmade jewelry and artwork, but it was also one of the most dangerous cities in Chile at night. Granted, I am making this sound very scary, yet I learned that although there are many visitors touring the “cerros” during the day, it becomes a different place at night. As a visitor from the U.S., who neither looks nor sounds like a Chilean while speaking Spanish, I wanted to be aware of this dynamic as I navigated the country during my time abroad. 

CEA CAPA led Excursion to Viña del Mar’s Famous Flower Clock 

The Kindness and Sense of Community within Chilean Culture 

Understanding the complexity of Chile's culture, history, and diverse population was something I began to grasp the more time I spent there. Even through my experience living with my host family in Viña del Mar, I could appreciate the importance of having meals together and blending in rather than standing out in the streets (for safety reasons). My very lovely host mom told me this to protect me, while still encouraging me to explore different cities with friends, travel, and gain a better understanding of Chilean culture. 

I would return home, drink a cup of tea with bread and avocado, and talk about my day and what I had encountered throughout the months I was in Chile. Through these nighttime or afternoon conversations, we grew very close. Her friend would often come over with her dog, and we would gossip and converse before I headed to bed. 

One of the Final Meals We Had Together with Program Leader Claudia 

My host mom, Mimi, is an extraordinary person. She supported me not only when I had a cold but also when I needed to navigate the healthcare system in Chile. I was amazed by her kindness when I experienced bad stomach pain. As I cried in her arms, she ensured I received the care I needed. I don’t know what I would have done without this wonderful woman. She opened her home to me, allowed me to spend holidays and family birthday meals together, and I even grew close to her friends and family. 

To this day, I will never forget the lasting impact of my time in Chile with amazing people like Claudia, Mimi, and even my psychology professor, Felipe. All of them supported me in various ways during my year abroad. When I struggled with mental health and couldn’t turn in assignments on time, Felipe was understanding and checked in on how he could best support me as a professor. 

My Final Farewell to Mimi After Spending a Whole Year with Her!  

Through these experiences with adults and mentors overseeing my growth during my time abroad, I gained a deeper understanding of Chilean culture. It is built on a strong sense of community. When times are hard for friends, family, or students, people come together to support one another—whether through sharing tea to talk about challenges, bringing heating pads to ease pain, or sending audio messages to check in. 

Famous Mural in Valparaíso Made by a Husband-and-Wife Artist Duo (you can see their beautiful work all over Valparaíso and Viña del Mar) 

Despite political and social turmoil in Chile, its people unite to celebrate achievements or console those in need. I never felt alone during my time abroad. Chile is a remarkable place, and I would recommend it to anyone considering staying for six months or longer to truly immerse themselves in its culture and sense of community. I hope to return soon and catch up with old friends and family.