- Name
- Daryush
- Study Programme
- IMUK
- Semester
- 10th Semester
- Host Institution
- University of Guadalajara (UdG)
- Location
- Guadalajara, Mexico
- Period
- August 2022 to January 2023
What was your main motivation to go abroad?
My main motivation for studying abroad in Mexico was, first and foremost, to improve my language skills and learn about a new culture. Mexico is a Spanish-speaking country, and studying in Mexico can help improve language skills by living in an environment where Spanish must be spoken. In addition, I became very interested in guitar music. Mexico offers a wide range of guitar music styles, such as Mariachi, Norteño or Son Jarocho, which I was able to get to know and expand my guitar skills.
A semester abroad gives you the opportunity to get to know new cultures, perspectives and ways of thinking.
What were your biggest concerns?
The biggest concerns I had before starting my semester abroad were firstly safety and secondly the language barrier. As most people know from the news, Mexico has a history of violence and drug-related crime, and this worried me a lot at first. However, I quickly realised that it is important to follow safety precautions and not make rash decisions. Once on site, I quickly realised that the situation there is very much exaggerated by the media and that there is nothing to worry about as long as you follow the recommendations of the locals. However, my worries about the language barrier were confirmed. My Spanish was pretty rusty and I quickly realised on site that it was difficult to get on with English.
Would you recommend a stay abroad? Why?
There are many reasons why I think you should do a semester abroad. A semester abroad gives you the opportunity to learn about new cultures, perspectives and ways of thinking. This can help broaden your worldview and develop intercultural skills that are invaluable in the global workplace. In addition, a semester abroad contributes to personal development by acquiring new skills, building self-confidence and facing challenges that you have not known before. It also often helps to expand your professional network and improve future career opportunities. However, I made some real friends with whom I am still in close contact after my semester abroad.
What did you learn from your stay abroad?
By overcoming the challenges I encountered during my semester abroad, I feel like I have become much more independent. Life without the usual network such as friendships, family or even acquaintances was not easy at the beginning, but it made me put a lot more effort into making new contacts to build a new network for myself.
Were your expectations met?
Much more, it exceeded my expectations! Mexico is a beautiful country with wonderful and kind-hearted people. Regardless of the diversity of nature and landscape that this country offers, I was amazed at the warmth and hospitality of the Mexican people. Whether in the centre of the big city or in a small village on a mountain, we were always welcomed in the friendliest way and looked after as if we were part of the family.
Is there anything you would like to highlight about your experience abroad?
At first, I was worried whether I had made the right decision in choosing Mexico as the host country for my semester abroad. I was worried because of the media reports about corruption and crime in the country. However, my concerns changed abruptly after the first few days. Although there are problems with crime in the country, which the locals do not deny, the majority of the Mexican population is anything but criminal. The friendliness and hospitality I experienced are rare to find.
Fun Fact
In Mexico there is a holiday called "Día de los Muertos" (Day of the Dead), which takes place on 1st and 2nd November. On this day, they commemorate their deceased relatives and friends and celebrate life with colours, music, food and traditional shrines. Día de los Muertos is a unique and fascinating celebration that brings together both the living and the dead and reflects Mexico's rich culture and traditions.
Impressions of Mexico
