Domestic Exchange Student Reflections
Pitzer College
My Domestic Exchange experience with Pitzer College in Quito, Ecuador has been quite adventurous. While in the country of Ecuador, I have been able to gain the experience of studying abroad at the University of San Francisco de Quito (USFQ). The campus culture is quite vibrant and presents with new experiences to say the least.
So far on campus, I have attended international student orientation, core classes in Modern Latin American Artand Language and Literature, the Pitzer College Seminar course and collected data for my independent study. I have also participated in a community service project at the Guadaria agency. The university has numerous programs for international students to get involved in regarding the learning of the culture. Every week, they have distinct cultural events pertaining to different socioeconomic and social issues, such as domestic violence, indigenous populations, and Afro-Ecuadorian rights and poverty.
The campus is gorgeous with beautiful architecture and color schemes throughout.The university has a large landscape to study or meet up with friends, intimate restaurants, beautiful fountains and an engaging view of Quito.
Through the program, I have also been able to explore many beautiful sights in Ecuador, including the Galapagos islands, an intriguing site to observe sea wildlife. Additional sites include Otavalo, a market where I was able to experience traditional Ecuadorian culture and the traditions of the Andes, as well as the historic district of Quito. In Otavalo, I was enlightened by the indigenous side of Quito. I also visited many of the hand craft market tables. At the market, the merchants had beautifully handcrafted bags that were woven and hand sewn. They also had many beautiful paintings by local Latin American artists and native Ecuadorian food.
Overall, my experience in Quito has been amazing. I cannot wait to discover and explore more hidden treasures, related to what USfQ, the city of Quito and the country have to offer!
