CIEE Latin America Fellow Spotlight: Claire Wolfe
Authored By:
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: Claire Wolfe
School: Arizona State University
Major: Sustainability
LATAM Location: Monteverde, Costa Rica
Q1: What inspired you to apply for the fellowship program?
I decided to apply to this program after my school study abroad counselor suggested I check it out. I have a lot of experience with marketing so this was a perfect fit for me. I am so grateful that I did because it has enriched this experience so much in such a short period of time.
Swipe here: Claire shares what she packed for her semester in Monteverde
Q2: How do you think learning a new language changes the way you see the world?
In my experience, learning a new language has shown me opportunities I never would have had before. Since your brain creates new neuropath ways as you learn a new language, you begin to experience the world around you in a more vibrant and colorful way, filled with ideas and expressions you have never seen before. I can swap stories with the locals and hear jokes that would make no sense in my native language. It is incredible!
Q3: How do you hope your language skills grow/develop while in Latin America?
I personally feel that if I did not have this opportunity, my language skills would stay stagnant and I would not be able to pass it down to my family. By being in Latin America, I hope to solidify my fluency and be able to express myself on a more personal, less formal level.
Q4: What Latin American cultural traditions are you most excited to immerse yourself in?
I am most excited to immerse myself in the culture of dancing and the platos típicos (food) of Costa Rica. I have never been much of a dancer myself but I think it’s time to try. I would also like to expand my palate and food options while abroad because I mostly eat the same things everyday at home.
Swipe here: Claire captures breathtaking moments from her study abroad adventure in Costa Rica
Q5: What does it mean to you to engage with Latin America as a “learner” rather than a “visitor”?
Engaging with Costa Rica as a learner instead of a visitor or tourist gives me the opportunity to build connections with the people and environment around me. I am almost forced to slow down and pay close attention to details I would normally ignore, which makes the entire experience more memorable.
Study Abroad in Latin America
Now it's your turn to experience all that Latin America study abroad has to offer!