Independence + Out of my Comfort Zone
By: Sarahi Franco-Morales (CAS ’27)
GRIP: Ashoka in Mexico City, Mexico
As my time in Mexico comes to an end, I’ve been thinking a lot about what I’ve experienced, what I’ve learned, and what I’ll carry with me. I’m proud of how much I’ve pushed myself to try new things, both big and small. I cut my hair, wandered through museums, and attended historic events across the city. I found a favorite spot in the office that became my little corner of routine, and I know I’ll miss it.
But more than the spaces, I’ll miss the sounds of Mexico City, the street vendors calling out, music spilling from cafés and cars, and the energy of a city that always feels alive. I’ve made a real effort to immerse myself, not just in the culture but in the rhythm of everyday life. I took public transportation frequently, explored neighborhoods I’d never heard of before arriving, and slowly became more confident navigating a new language and environment. I’m especially proud of how comfortable I became striking up conversations and asking questions, things that felt intimidating at first.
This summer, I also deepened my understanding of Mexico’s political landscape. Through my internship, I had the opportunity to engage with policy work, visit nonprofits alongside my supervisor, and meet advocates doing meaningful grassroots work. These conversations and experiences challenged me to think more critically and helped me draw connections between the issues I study at school and the real-world implications on the ground.
What I appreciated most was the balance between structured learning and personal exploration. My weekends were filled with walking tours, cultural outings, and food adventures that made me feel more connected to the city. I didn’t just work here—I lived here, and that makes all the difference.
It’s hard to sum up an experience like this, but I know it gave me a truly memorable time—one that I’ll carry with me long after I leave. Mexico City became a place of growth, learning, and joy, and I’m incredibly grateful for the time I had here.