April 12, 2017

James K.  Scott, Ph.D.

Director of the International Center
Interim vice provost for International Programs

Dear Jim,

I had the opportunity to be on the other side of the study abroad experience last month when I went on the OSHER study abroad trip to Cuernavaca, Mexico with a group led by Judy Elliott. I’m happy to say that it was an absolutely fabulous trip, and that Judy was a very knowledgeable and organized leader. As a study abroad leader myself, I know what a difficult job this can be. Judy was very attentive to every detail, including making sure that we were appropriately placed in our Spanish language classes, that we were happy with our home-stay families, and making the arrangement for many fantastic excursions to see the history and culture of Mexico. She personally led us on a tour of historic Cuernavaca, and arranged for guides to take us to Mexico City, where we visited several museums, and excursions to other ancient cities. She also made the very complicated arrangements for us to spend a weekend in the city of Puebla and nearby Cholulu, where we climbed the pyramid. To be able to visit the ruins of some of the ancient cities of Mexico was truly thrilling.

One of the best aspects of the trip was the opportunity to live with a Mexican family. This not only enhanced our ability to practice our Spanish, but new friendships were made. Judy took great care to match us with appropriate host families whom she knew would be compatible, and I am now Facebook friends with my Mexican “mama.” In fact, I just heard from her today.

Finally, the Spanish language school that we attended was superb. The Universidad Internacionale was in an unbelievably beautiful setting and the teachers were extremely well-trained in working with adult learners. They challenged us while keeping at a pace that felt comfortable. Classes were very small (my beginner level had four people) and we all thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We attended classes from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. daily and then had the afternoon and evenings for sight-seeing, excursions to other places, or relaxing and studying.

This trip provided a fantastic opportunity to immerse ourselves in another culture and language, while also providing many opportunities for tourism. It was an experience that I won’t forget and I hope that I have the opportunity to return.

Thanks for working with OSHER to make this trip possible. It was an exemplary experience.

Best regards,

Marjorie R. Sable

Professor and Director Emerita

School of Social Work

University of Missouri

SableM@missouri.edu

cell: 573-999-0599