Senior JaNess Lipkins learned first-hand about the Mexican culture through UF’s Study Abroad Program. She spent part of last summer studying communication in Cuernavaca, Mexico.
While in Mexico, JaNess, who majors in interpersonal and public communication and Spanish and minors in international studies, participated in the Intensive Spanish Program. For eight weeks, she spent more than 40 hours a week in classes. According to JaNess, the classes were very similar to courses taught in the United States. She also had a conversation partner who helped her to increase her Spanish-speaking skills.
In addition to her academic activities, JaNess had the opportunity to personally experience the Mexican culture. During her two-month stay, JaNess took salsa dance lessons and cooking classes. She also visited many parts of Mexico, including Taxco, Tepotslan, Alcapulco and Mexico City. She went shopping in the “mercados,” which are markets, and she developed friendships with a lot of the people she met.
JaNess says that one of the most valuable lessons she learned during her study abroad experience was to truly appreciate the freedoms granted to her as a U.S. citizen.
“This experience gave me an entirely new outlook on life. I now have a great appreciation for my county and the things that are offered in the United States. I think that it is true when people say, ‘You never know how valuable something is until you don’t have it anymore.’ Although I had a wonderful time in Mexico, I have grown to have a greater respect and love for the U.S.,” she mused.
The experiences JaNess had in Mexico will have a definite benefit on her future career plans. After graduating in May with her bachelor’s degree, JaNess is hoping to attend graduate school at Xavier University. Eventually, JaNess would like to start a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching English and job skills to Hispanic people.
