CIEE Latin America Fellow Spotlight: Kara Juhl
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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: Kara Juhl
School: University of Iowa
Major: Biology
LATAM Location: Santiago, Chile
Q1: What inspired you to apply for the CIEE Leading Change in Latin America Student Fellowship?
My inspiration for participating as a fellow was to break down negative and false beliefs surrounding Latin America. As someone who is learning Spanish, I have received so much support and encouragement from Spanish speakers. Considering this and my experience hosting my exchange sisters from Mexico, it's upsetting to me that the warmth and generosity of Latin American cultures is often overshadowed by stereotypes.
Watch here: Kara visits Cerro San Cristobal
Q2: How do you plan to use what you learn abroad to make a difference in your community back home?
Ever since I made the choice to study abroad here in Chile, I know that I’ve made an impact on my community back home. In Iowa, tradition and family are central values, so my decision to move to South America with no personal ties came as a surprise to many. But through this journey, I’ve not only challenged stigmas surrounding South America, but also encouraged others to step outside of their comfort zones. One moment that really stuck with me was when a neighbor told my mom she felt less afraid about her own son moving across the country because I had made the leap to live in South America. Hearing that made me realize that taking risks for yourself can sometimes inspire others to be brave in their own lives.
Q3: How do you hope this experience will shape your future studies or career path?
Professionally, I’m driven to make healthcare more accessible and equitable. In the United States, healthcare disparities disproportionately affect Spanish-speaking populations. I want to help close that gap by being someone who can ensure patients feel seen, heard, and supported without the barrier of language. Achieving fluency in Spanish is not just a skill for me; it's a tool for advocacy, connection, and better care.
Watch here: Kara goes on CIEE day trip to Pomaire, Chile
Q4: What do you hope to learn (academically, culturally, and/or personally) during your semester abroad?
While my reasons for choosing Latin America have become more complex over time, one remains central: bilingualism. Reaching a high level of Spanish proficiency is something I’m committed to both personally and professionally. Living abroad and fully immersing myself in my second language has been challenging, but it’s taught me invaluable lessons in self-reliance and perseverance. And that, in my opinion, is what leading change is all about: stepping outside of your comfort zone to grow, connect, and make a meaningful impact.
Study Abroad in Latin America
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