Ecuador: Dylan Werachowski
Program: UW Education, Diversity and Community in the Galapagos Islands, Summer
Dylan’s Major: Communication Sciences and Disorders
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
Every aspect of this program was memorable for me. It was a lot of firsts, and I got to try so many new things. A few that stand out are going to different schools and interacting with the students. I am not the strongest Spanish speaker, so this was a bit difficult; however, the children were so welcoming and fun to play with. Another memorable experience was all the snorkeling we did. I got to see everything from colorful fish to sea turtles and even penguins!
How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?
Academics during this program were much more experiential. We learned a lot while out exploring with guides or local people. This was a part of the program I really enjoyed because you got to see the things you were learning about firsthand. We did have some lectures as well that tied into what we experienced either at the schools or within town.
I got to have once-in-a-lifetime moments with experiential learning that tied in directly to my classroom learning.
What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?
Through this program, I learned that I am capable of more than I thought I was. Almost every moment of this experience was new and nerve-wrecking to me, but I pushed through. I found that trying new things is the only way you’re gonna know who you are and what you truly like.
What is your advice for someone considering your program?
My advice for someone considering this program is to do it! When I first signed up, I was hesitant for a variety of reasons, but now that I have gone, I could not be happier with my decision. Every person involved with this program was so welcoming. I got to have once-in-a-lifetime moments with experiential learning that tied in directly to my classroom learning. Being in the Galapagos Islands gave me knowledge I could never learn just by reading about.