During my junior year at the University of San Francisco I discovered I had taken several classes to declare a second major in Latin American Studies. I happily declared my second major during the spring semester but was surprised to discover studying abroad was a core requirement (apparently it is the only regional studies major required to study abroad). I had recently found an on-campus apartment, registered for fall semester classes, and was in no position to go abroad during my senior year. Luckily, I discovered an external summer study abroad program in Guanajuato, Guanajuato Mexico! (shown on the right, 2007)
Guanajuato, Guanajuato is a city my family visits on every trip to Mexico. Guanajuato is the capitol of my mom's homestate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and even played a role in the Mexican War of Independence. I have many fond memories of my trips to Guanajuato. As a kid, I loved the Don Quixote statues scattered around the city (Guanajuato hosts the Festival Internacional Cervantino which is named after Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote). My grandparents were married for over 50 years and made sure the family ate at least one meal at Truco 7, their favorite restaurant, during every visit. Truco 7 is located just around the corner from the Basilica (on the left: my godfather, brother, me, my mom, and my dad in front of the Basilica, around 1998).In addition to the Basilica, El Pipila (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z35nEQEut_c) and the University of Guanajuato are the most photographed subjects of Guanajuato.
(above left: my mom and I in front of El Pipila, around 1998)
(above right: standing in front of El Pipila, 2007)
When I was little, I dreamed about studying at the University of Guanajuato and climing up the massive stairs to go to class. (above left: my brother and I on the steps of the University, around 1998) One week from today, I will be back in Mexico to fulfill my dream of attending classes at the University AND complete my study abroad requirement! I am excited and thankful to have the opportunity to do so much this summer!
