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Chilean Culture

“Chile is more than just a tourist destination... it is a place of vibrant culture and genuinely caring people.” - Kevin Gowan

Ever since high school Kevin Gowan, a junior majoring in Engineering, had been interested in study abroad and all the amazing experiences it could create. So when provided the opportunity while at Washington State University, he set out to find a program that provided cultural immersion as well as an opportunity to practice his growing Spanish skills.

Instead of focusing on traditional destinations like Spain or Mexico, Kevin valued the more profound, relational culture of the Chilean people, and also considered the newly industrial and environmental movements within the country. He had no idea that his semester through ISA (International Studies Abroad) in Chile, at the Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaiso (PCUV), would end up being one of the most fulfilling experiences of his life!

Although he was excited about his program, Kevin admits that he had many fears and uncertainties about living in a different country. “I wondered what my host family would be like. How would I get the classes I needed? How would I navigate the town?” However once he arrived, the director and faculty at PCUV did an excellent job in alleviating Kevin’s concerns. “All of the staff were sincerely interested in me as a person, and this really helped to ease some of the stress.”

Reflecting back, Kevin notes that as he interacted with the Chilean people, he came to feel as though they truly cared about their work and their relationships. It wasn’t simply an obligation or job requirement, but something they were passionate about. And, although he was initially concerned about living with a host family, Kevin loved it. “Living with a host family was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Having tea and bread with my Chilean mom or enjoying meaningful conversations with my Chilean brother made my experience real and genuine.”

Kevin also sincerely valued the educational environment. “My teachers were great – they allowed us to feel comfortable and were patient if we needed extra help. I particularly enjoyed getting to know Chilean students and faculty in the area of engineering. We’d talk and talk, sharing knowledge and ideas.”

Kevin didn’t just study. In addition to studying history and practicing Spanish, he volunteered with a youth ministry and with an orphanage in the area. “Playing with the local children and seeing the pure joy in their eyes was one of my favorite memories during my experience abroad,” he relates.

Since returning to the U.S., Kevin often reflects on his life in Chile and how it has encouraged him to take more time to focus on relationships and to avoid the fast-paced interactions so common in American culture. When asked what he would say to students considering study abroad, Kevin took a moment to reminisce and then said: “Tell them to do it. Tell them to take advantage of the opportunities presented, because study abroad can turn into one of the most rewarding experiences of their life.”