Name: Katelyn Brinks
Major: Spanish
Program: ISA Semester
Traveled Abroad Before: Yes

Q: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your study abroad experience?
A: The friends I made while there. The Americans, the Dominicans, and the Haitians, most of whom I have seen several times since then.

Q: Why did you choose this destination?
A: The large majority of Spanish students at GV study in Spain. It wasn't for me. I wanted my own experience that was not Spain and after talking it over with someone in PIC, I decided on the Dominican Republic.

Q: What are some things that surprised you about the campus, the classes, the culture, customs or traditions?
A: I learned a lot of superstitions that I did not know about before, which are part of my thinking now (for good or bad). I was surprised at the rich history of the country and was surprised about how little I knew about the conquista and Christopher Columbus.

Q: What are some things you would like students to know about studying abroad in this destination or the program provider you studied with?
A: ISA was a great provider. Our classes were with Dominicans and Americans, our home-stays were great (I still keep in contact with my host mom) and every time I go back, I make sure to stop in to see Jonathon and Eliesset, the in-country directors. They know exactly who I am every time.

Q: What advice would you offer?
A: Go for a year. I went for a semester and came home in tears. I was so upset that I went back the fall semester afterward because I wanted to stay there. Throw yourself into the culture and your relationships because you don't want to come back saying "I wish I had done..."

Q: What was your academic goal while studying abroad?
A: My goal was to become fluent in Spanish, which was possible.

Question? Email Katelyn!