Anna Parra Jordan, C’2025, comparative women’s studies major from Washington, D.C., participated in a study abroad program in Oaxaca, Mexico, this past summer. While in Oaxaca, Jordan had the opportunity to take a course on contemporary Mexican women writers, which she said was closely related to her post-graduate aspirations.
“Studying abroad afforded me the space to explore a new city within a safe and structured program. Not only did I take a class in the heart of Oaxaca that directly related to my major, but I was also able to explore towns and villages outside of the city with the rest of my cohort,” said Jordan. “Through this program, I learned so much about myself, Oaxaca and what I enjoy in terms of traveling to new places. I encourage everyone to investigate studying abroad, you never know what can happen.” 
In her course, she explored the themes of influential 20th-century Mexican literature, which she said was vital to the development of a radical, global feminist praxis. She was particularly moved by several themes, including the many struggles and triumphs of women in Mexican society. She left Oaxaca with a deeper understanding of the feminist movements in Mexico and the unique challenges faced by Mexican women, like social justice, economic disparities and racial discrimination.
Exploring Oaxaca on her own for the first time confirmed the importance of travel in her self-discovery. While abroad, she formed close relationships with her cohort and received mentorship from Dr. Jacqueline Alvarez, associate professor of Spanish and chair of the World Languages and Cultures Department at Spelman.
Jordan’s experience in Mexico strengthened her desire to advocate for underrepresented groups post-graduation and deepened her commitment to social equity.