5:17 a.m., August 2nd: that’s the moment I stepped onto the plane headed back to the United States. It marked the end of my six-week adventure in Mexico—a portal back to Oregon. But strangely, it felt like I was leaving home. During the program, I built genuine connections, formed relationships with incredible people, and laid the foundation for a future return. I was excited to reunite with my community in Oregon, yet filled with a deep sadness, as if I were leaving behind family in Querétaro.
Mexico welcomed me with open arms. I felt seen, supported, and embraced by my comunidad mexicana. I can’t imagine never going back.
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I’ll admit—it’s a relief not having to constantly prepare to communicate in Spanish. But the urge to use the language hasn’t faded. I’ve made it a priority to keep practicing, seeking out opportunities to engage with Spanish speakers and staying in touch with the friends and mentors who shaped my experience abroad.
Studying in Mexico stretched me far beyond my comfort zone. I expected that, and I welcomed it. That discomfort became a catalyst for growth. I’ve gained confidence—not just in my language skills, but in my ability to connect with others, to listen, and to express myself across cultures.
For anyone who shares my identities—first-generation, non-traditional, navigating college with a sense of purpose but also uncertainty—studying abroad might feel intimidating. But it’s worth it. You’ll discover parts of yourself you didn’t know existed. You’ll find strength in unfamiliar places. And you’ll come home changed, in the best way.
Alex Tidwell, Diverse Ducks Ambassador