Numerous students from the University of Notre Dame have been recounting their enchanting European adventures, strolling along the Seine with philosophical musings in hand, orchestrating idyllic scenes over pints of Guinness, and embarking on picturesque Italian escapades. These experiences have echoed settings from indie films or promotional material for university study abroad programs.
Amidst these narratives, one student shares a distinct encounter from their time in Chile.
The journey commenced on the inaugural day of the pre-program. Among the group gathered for a welcome lunch in a basement hotel in Santiago, the student found themselves immersed in an unconventional setting. The venue, adorned with “Venetian” decor and a fusion of New York icons, served Chilean cuisine that failed to resonate in freshness or flavor.
The following day, the student, along with 21 companions, the program coordinators, chefs, a driver, a yoga instructor, and their belongings, embarked on a bus voyage to the countryside. The scenic route, flanked by the distant silhouette of the Andes, was juxtaposed with growing concerns for necessities. After a prolonged journey, a delayed lunch at 4 p.m., and a stop at a remote grocery store, the group reached their rustic sanctuary for the next ten days: an ancient mountain monastery nestled in Vilches, devoid of modern conveniences and connectivity.
The student vividly describes their dwelling in Vilches, portraying a rustic room inhabited by various creatures including spiders, moths, and unidentified insects. Each night became a test of mental fortitude, grappling with the presence of unwelcome roommates and the looming threat of danger.
Daily routines in Vilches were regimented, with mornings commencing with a bell summoning breakfast, followed by classes encompassing physical education, Spanish language, culture, and history. Evenings were marked by group activities, including river visits, cultural performances, and impromptu music sessions under the expanse of the night sky.
Transitioning from the rustic seclusion of Vilches to the quaint town of Curepto, the student experienced a shift to communal living with a host family. Days were characterized by interactions with local residents, excursions, soccer matches, and communal gatherings at the town fair. This period served as a bridge between the solitude of Vilches and the vibrant atmosphere of Santiago.
Having acclimated to the bustling capital, the student reflects on their study abroad journey, finding parallels to the metropolitan experiences of their European peers. While relieved of spider-induced anxieties, the student expresses gratitude for their rural immersive encounter in Chile.
