Choosing Mexico as the destination for my semester abroad was one of the best decisions of my life. It was clear to me early on that I wanted to go to a Latin American country to improve my Spanish and experience the incomparable lifestyle of this region. The Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM), one of the most prestigious universities in Mexico, offered the perfect opportunity.
Why Mexico?
Mexico had already fascinated me on my previous trips. The people here are incredibly friendly, open and helpful - they welcome everyone with a smile and an open heart. Mexico also impresses with its diversity: from the Caribbean beaches in the east to the surfing opportunities on the west coast, from impressive volcanoes and mountains to vibrant cities.
Another reason that won me over was the Mexican cuisine. Tacos, mole, chiles en nogada - the variety and taste are simply unbeatable. And the best thing is that everything is fresh, incredibly tasty and cheap.
My favorite subject: Biomechanics
During my studies at ITESM, I was particularly enthusiastic about the subject of biomechanics. It is a unique combination of medical knowledge, technical basis and design theory. Over the course of the semester, we learned the theoretical basics in order to complete a final project at the end.
Our project was to build a functioning finger prosthesis for a woman who had lost four fingers in an accident. It was not only a professional challenge, but also personally enriching to create something so meaningful and concrete.
The atmosphere in the class was another highlight. Although I was the only international student, I immediately felt welcome. Working with my fellow Mexican students was great, and the friendships I made there will surely last a lifetime. The professor was also fantastic - approachable, humorous, and always on the same wavelength as us.
A typical day in my student life
My day often started with my neighbor Conrado, a 60-year-old Mexican, with whom I chatted over a cup of coffee. Then it was a few minutes' walk to the campus, where I usually had lectures until midday.
Lunch with friends was a daily highlight - I often had tacos from one of the street food stalls, which are not only filling for a few euros, but are also real culinary highlights. In the afternoons, I used the free sports facilities on campus, went to the gym or played soccer.
In the evenings, Mexico City showed its diverse side: bars, cafés, discos or simply getting together with friends. The city has so much to offer that even after months you still discover new things.
Travel and cultural experiences
Mexico is a paradise for explorers. As an exchange student, you have two free weeks during the semester, which I used for longer trips. A road trip through Baja California and a week of surfing in Puerto Escondido are among my absolute highlights.
I also had the opportunity to go on city trips at the weekends. Everything is easily accessible from Mexico City. I was particularly impressed by places like Tequila, Taxco, Oaxaca, Puebla and Tepoztlán. After the semester, I plan to explore the Yucatán Peninsula and visit other places on the west coast.
Some of my friends have even spontaneously flown to Guatemala to do the famous Acatenango hike - this is also easily possible from Mexico.
Tips for future exchange students
Conclusion
My semester abroad at the Tecnológico de Monterrey was a unique and enriching experience. The combination of high-quality academic education, warm hospitality, and an incredible variety of activities exceeded my expectations. Mexico is a country that not only welcomes you, but also touches you deeply - through its people, its culture and its joie de vivre.
If you are thinking about a semester abroad, I highly recommend ITESM and Mexico. It will be a time you will never forget!
Impressions from Mexico © Sebastian Seelos
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