I am studying abroad in Chile for a semester!

Isabella Tranquilino Start Date: Feb 11, 2025 - End Date: Aug 10, 2025

My Travel Story

by: Isabella Tranquilino Start Date: Feb 11, 2025 - End Date: Aug 10, 2025
My name is Bella Tranquilino, and I am embarking on a journey that is deeply personal and transformative. This spring, I will be studying abroad at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (PUCV) in Chile—an opportunity that means more to me than just academics. It is a chance to reclaim a part of my identity that has always felt just out of reach.
Growing up in a small, rural Iowa town, I never had the opportunity to learn Spanish, despite my father being from Mexico. I’ve always felt a disconnect from my heritage—a missing piece of who I am. Learning Spanish in Chile will allow me to bridge that gap, communicate with my relatives in their native language, and truly embrace the culture that has shaped my family.
This experience will also prepare me for my future in healthcare. As a nursing student, I know that being bilingual will allow me to better serve Spanish-speaking patients, breaking down language barriers and building meaningful connections in the medical field.
I am raising funds to help cover the costs of this life-changing experience, and any support would mean the world to me. Your generosity will not only help me travel to Chile but also empower me to reclaim my heritage and use my language skills to make a difference in the lives of others.
Thank you for being part of my journey!