
Mia McElhatton
CAS ’26
Philosophy
SA: Ibero-American University of Mexico
- miamce@sas.upenn.edu
Email:
Ask Me About…
I was the only student from Penn who decided to study in Mexico City during my semester. I am happy to answer questions about choosing a less common abroad program and studying outside of Europe because I know I was nervous about being the only person out of my friends studying abroad outside of Europe! My courses at Ibero-Americana University were entirely conducted in Spanish, so also happy to answer any questions about the academic experience.
My Experience Abroad
I choose to study abroad in Mexico partially to improve my Spanish and partially to inform my research and professional interests in law, migrant, and international agreements. Studying in Mexico City in the Spring of 2025 was an incredibly fascinating moment to learn about Mexico and through learning about Mexico learn much more about the United States.
Other Highlights
- Embracing Mexico city without feeling pressured to leave the city too often
- Establishing a new routine and meeting new people
- Sundays filled with running along the Reforma, the main street through the center of the city, and exploring La Lagunilla market with friends.
Blogs

Perspective via Public TransitÂ
SA: Ibero-American University of Mexico, Mexico Mia, one of the Semester Abroad Correspondents, shares her experience abroad during the Spring 2025 semester. Follow along with the group of correspondents on our blog and look…

Embracing Embarrassment and DiscomfortÂ
SA: Ibero-American University of Mexico, Mexico Mia, one of the Semester Abroad Correspondents, shares her experience abroad during the Spring 2025 semester. Follow along with the group of correspondents on our blog and look…


