Attending the Introduction to Research Abroad Program (IRAP) in M?rida, Yucat?n, MX was a surreal experience that I will cherish forever. It was truly an opportunity of a lifetime to be given the chance to work with universities like Universidad Polit?cnica de Yucat?n, Universidad Marista de M?rida, Universidad Nacional Aut?noma de M?xico, Universidad Aut?noma de Yucat?n, and Universidad An?huac Mayab. My first initial impression of the opportunity was exciting because there aren?t a lot of study-abroad opportunities available for freshmen. I saw a chance and I am happy I took it. At first, when arriving, I was startled by the weather. It was astonishing to see the hardworking Yucatecans live their day-to-day life in such a heat. There was also a sense of bond in the community in the way people greeted each other and expressed care. The Aggies who attended the trip with me slowly became a family as well.
While conducting the research, I was overwhelmed because I didn?t see the business aspect to the labs. However, as time progressed I realized how much business is involved in everything no matter if it?s scientific, agricultural, etc. Seeing the way numbers from a spreadsheet come to be counted and collected gave me realization of physical inventory. It changed my perspective now when I read and create financial documents. As for working in a global environment, language wasn?t an issue for me because I am fluent in Spanish but the mannerisms were. Attending and informing myself about Yucatecans was beneficial because it helped me communicate with my team members. I?d recommend the IRAP trip to a fellow Mays student who wants to give a shot at what it?s like to be abroad. In two weeks you?d be surprised at how much of an impact you?d make on not only yourself but others.
