Student Quotes

"Mexico was a wonderful experience for me.  Before I went, I was able to speak clearly, but I was afraid to do so.  Guadalajara boosted my self-esteem when speaking Spanish and gave me the immersion that I needed.  Most of all, the trip was fun and exciting. I made tons of memories during our month in Mexico."
- Daneen Butler

"I will never forget my trip to Guadalajara.  It was an awesome experience from living with a family to talking to other people from the city.  I learned a lot not only about the language but also about the culture.  I loved meeting the people and getting to know the differences in our cultures."
- Amanda Phillips

"Believe me, we had such an amazing experience living with families, talking one-on-one with our maestros, and seeing the beautiful culture of Mexico.  My family's personality, faith, and sense of humor was a perfect match for my character.  It was also amazing that by the end of the month we were completely comfortable traveling around the city and speaking Spanish with anyone and everyone!  It's especially fun when other American tourists mistake you for being from Mexico and say "You speak really good English."  Now I can say that I "speak really good Spanish" too!"
-Jill Rateike

"The Guadalajara immersion trip is the type of applied learning that is needed in any subject, especially foreign languages. This truly 24 hour a day learning experience is made possible by well-selected, friendly, and helpful families who enjoy watching you accomplish what you may have thought impossible. The one on one teachers allow you to speak, listen, and make mistakes as much as possible while walking through beautiful and historic Guadalajara. This program will improve your speaking and understanding of Spanish no matter what level you are at. I went with only one year of the language under my belt and was conversing with my family, teachers, and friends in under a week."
-Andy Houston

"The trip was such an awesome opportunity.  I feel so much more comfortable speaking the language and really learned some cool things about Mexican culture and how diverse it is.  The best part of the trip was the families we lived with and the friends we made.  I enjoyed it so much, I'm going back this summer!"
- Stacy Jones

"I landed in Guadalajara and the minute I stepped off that plane the love affair began.  Despite my fears, I opened my heart.  Three weeks later, I was standing at the airport, in tears, completely amazed that my heart could be so full.  This experience totally changed my life.  I learned so many new things about Mexico--the life, the culture, and my personal favorite--the food!  But the best part is I grew as a person.  I have become a richer, deeper person, because I chose to step outside my country, my comfort zone, and connect with some very amazing people.  Part of my heart is now in Mexico.  Part of who I am has been shaped by this experience.  I feel so honored to have been able to have the opportunity to expand my horizons.  So do not fear, I will return!"
-Kristi Bontrager

"The Guadalajara trip was an awesome experience and opportunity. We could really learn the culture and language better than in the classroom. I was able to learn spanish a lot faster and enjoy doing so. After the great experience, I am motivated to obtain a spanish minor here, which may even accelerate me into a career in Spanish.  I will soon return!"
-Molly Jackson

"This trip takes you out of your comfort zone and challenges you to think about who you really are. 
I had the time of my life on this trip.  Now that I have returned, I understand all the awesome experiences the trip has to offer.  The best part, however, is knowing that I have a family back in Guadalajara."
-Lisa Skura

HOME