by Conner L.
Now that I have returned after our week abroad, it hasn’t really hit me yet that my involvement in this program is almost over. I was selected to go on the trip in Fall 2024, and now here I am still here in Spring 2026. The first 2 years of college has involved UA in Panama in some capacity, and it has certainly been essential to my growth. I have formed very close connections with both the faculty and students involved which I can see myself keeping up for a long period of time. I have grown my confidence, leadership, and interpersonal skills in a significant way. I no longer get nervous when I have to speak in public. Each year, I have come away from the trip incredibly gracious and thankful for what we have back home. The opportunities, salary, and way of living we are able to enjoy every day simply don’t exist in Panama. There are many things I have learned to no longer take for granted, and I am encouraged to take advantage of the things offered. Panama has defined my growth both personally and professionally, and I certainly would not be the same person I am now if I did not take the chance and study abroad.
