#WCUGOESGLOBAL

Student: Nicole Castro-Valdez 

Trip: WCU Summer in Guatemala: Service-Learning Experience 

(Faculty-Led) 

Nicole had a lot to share in regard to here time abroad: 

I went on the Guatemala Service-Learning Experience study abroad trip summer 2018. I loved every minute of it. I participated in different community services on campus and off campus that year. I thought going to Guatemala was a great opportunity to help a different community in a different country. The purpose of the trip is to actively engage and help members in the society that have cognitive, physical and developmental disabilities.  

As an Alumni, Nicole had this to say about how the trip has carried into life after college: 

This experience has benefited me in so many ways! The people I met on this trip were so pure and genuine. Many people in the United States take things for granted, meanwhile in Guatemala the people we interacted with were humble, grateful and positive. Guatemala has humbled me in many ways, has shown me to express love and patience more often, and to significantly embrace my roots more. This trip will forever be unforgettable! 

Final Takeaway:  

I encourage multicultural students to travel and take on these experiences. Going to a country, learning their culture and supporting their communities is breathtaking!