From the City to the Falls: Embracing Argentina Abroad
By: Aileen Maldonado-Santos (CAS ’27)
GRIP: Social Impact in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Living in Buenos Aires this summer has been just as transformative as my internship itself. Every day has been a balance of adjusting to a new culture while also enjoying the excitement of exploring a city that feels alive in every corner. From the moment I stepped off the plane, I realized that this experience would stretch me far outside of my comfort zone.
One of the most rewarding aspects has been the opportunity to immerse myself in Argentine culture through food and daily routines. Meals here are slower and more social, which challenged my usual “on-the-go” style of eating in Philadelphia. I quickly fell in love with empanadas from the neighborhood bakery, medialunas with coffee in the mornings, and, of course, the ritual of sharing mate. Something as small as learning how to prepare and drink mate with friends became a symbol of connection, a way to feel more rooted in community even while far from home.
Another highlight was traveling outside the city with my friends from the program. We visited Mendoza, known for its mountains and wine country, and also made a trip to Iguazú Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. Mendoza’s peaceful landscapes offered a chance to pause and recharge, while Iguazú left us in awe with its beauty, giving us time to take in the natural beauty of Argentina. Both trips showed me very different sides of Argentina beyond Buenos Aires and gave me space to reflect. The landscapes were completely different from the bustle of Buenos Aires and gave me space to recharge. Traveling outside of the city made me realize that exploring culture isn’t just about big events, it’s also about the small, shared memories that become part of your personal story.
Language has been both a challenge and a gift. I came in confident in my Spanish, but using it in professional settings pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. Whether it was drafting documents, discussing projects with my supervisors, or even ordering food at a crowded restaurant, I became more comfortable navigating moments of uncertainty. Sometimes I stumbled, but each time I did, I was reminded that stepping outside your comfort zone is exactly how you expand it.
Overall, my time in Argentina has been about much more than just work, it has been about learning how culture shapes health, community, and daily life. The city’s vibrancy, the warmth of the people, and even the challenges of adjustment have enhanced my experience beyond anything I could have imagined.