CIEE Latin America Fellow Spotlight: Angelina Bourgi
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Meet the CIEE Leading Change in Latin America Student Fellows!
Follow along as CIEE sends 100 student leaders on a fully-funded semester abroad through the CIEE Leading Change in Latin America Fellowship. In this series, we spotlight Fellows as they immerse themselves in Latin American culture, grow as leaders, and prepare to make an impact worldwide.
Name: Angelina Bourgi
School: The New School
LATAM Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Q1: How does your personal background and identity shape your interest in Latin America?
As a Mexican/Lebanese, I have grown up in two countries that have been immensely
misrepresented in the media, yet these are countries that have so much charm, community, and
passion that not many have the chance to see. I knew that would be the case for any Latin
American country I would study abroad in. It is so important to step outside of yourself to see
what is beyond your own experience and have a true understanding of those in the world you live
in, and that is what I hope to do during my semester here.
Watch here: Angelina visits El Ateneo
Q2: What do you hope to learn during your semester abroad?
As an international relations/law student I am truly just hoping to learn anything any locals and
Argentine academics will present me with, especially when it comes to learning about these
regions that have been categorized as “dangerous” and have been systemically misrepresented in
the media. I think there’s such a great importance to stepping outside of your comfort zone and
also approaching your study abroad experience from a unique perspective, that way you can
bring something new and even more special with you home.
Q3: Are there any social, political, or historical topics you're especially interested in learning more about while abroad?
I’ve only been in Buenos Aires for a month and already feel as if I have learned so much about
the political state of Argentina as well it’s history. Of course, I’m looking forward to learning
even more but I am also eager to participate in the volunteer opportunities CIEE has presented
me with. I will be specifically working at a food distribution center and I am looking forward to
interacting with everyone and hearing about people's stories and experiences.
Q4: What parting advice do you have for other students who want to apply for this opportunity for spring 2026?
I think that if you’re even thinking of applying or coming here you should definitely do it. Don’t
leave yourself wondering “what could’ve been” when you have the opportunity to just do it. I
think overthinking in this case is your enemy. You have one life to live and if you spend it
thinking about why you shouldn’t, you’ll never get to experience all the reasons why you should
be here. I have only been here a short time and I can already say it’s been one of the best and
most unique experiences I’ve ever had.
Watch here: Angelina walks through Buenos Aires
Q5: What does it mean to you to engage with Latin America as a learner rather than a visitor?
It sounds funny but learning to be a learner rather than a visitor in a foreign country is something
I’ve noticed a lot of people overlook. I think traveling should be the education for living, not
only for ourselves but for those who do not get the chance to share their story or represent their
own culture in the way the Western media does. That’s why I think it’s important to be open to
hearing locals’ stories, history, and opinions rather than solely leaning into the aesthetic of it all.
Become a Latin America Student Fellow
Your turn to make an impact in Latin America starts here – apply for the CIEE Leading Change in Latin America Student Fellowship today!