By Institutional Communications
This summer, seven American students experienced life at Sagrado as part of the SSA Study Abroad program, which promotes cultural understanding of Spanish-speaking countries through academic exchange travel. As the first summer session came to a close, inSagrado spoke with some members of the group about their experiences studying on campus.
The students joined the program with different goals. Some hoped to strengthen their Spanish-language skills and learn more about Puerto Rican culture, while others, of Puerto Rican heritage, saw the experience as an opportunity to explore an important part of their family identity. What began as an academic exchange trip became a culturally enriching experience that included—and ultimately went beyond—elements such as music, nature, and cuisine, connecting participants with the island’s social realities and with their own personal histories.
When asked what had been the most impactful aspect of their exchange experience, the participants agreed that the warmth and friendliness of Puerto Rican people was one of the most memorable features of their time in the archipelago. Beyond excursions to beaches, nature reserves, and historic sites that were part of their extracurricular activities, the students emphasized that one of the most enriching experiences was learning about everyday life in Puerto Rico and interacting with people from different communities.
Through conversations both inside and outside the classroom, they also gained a deeper understanding of some of the challenges Puerto Ricans face. Rory Gilles, a student at College of the Holy Cross in Massachusetts, recalled witnessing public demonstrations related to access to water on the island. She noted that it was particularly interesting to learn about Puerto Rico’s political situation and the ways in which people organize themselves to voice their concerns and defend their rights.
For Jordan Ramos, a student at Moravian University in Pennsylvania with Puerto Rican heritage, the experience highlighted the importance of empathy. Gaining firsthand insight into some of the complexities facing Puerto Rican communities allowed her to better understand realities different from her own and to respond more flexibly to unexpected situations.
The experience held especially deep meaning for Elizabeth Rosado, who has Puerto Rican roots. “During my time here, I felt a deeper connection to my family’s history,” said the Connecticut College student, who identified with the pride Puerto Ricans take in celebrating their cultural identity. She especially remembered being in Puerto Rico while her family followed the Puerto Rican Day Parade celebrations from the United States. For her, being present in the archipelago during that time was a meaningful way to reconnect with her roots.
Tiffany Washington, who came from Waubonsee Community College, had a similar experience that brought her closer to her family’s Puerto Rican heritage. “For me, studying here has felt like being in my home away from home,” she said. Her experience even inspired her to remain in Puerto Rico for the second summer session, with the goal of improving her Spanish and eventually relocating to the island to continue her studies in early childhood education.
More Than a Decade Connecting with International Students
According to Dr. Alexandra Vega, a professor at the Ferré Rangel School of Communication, the program began at Sagrado in 2012, when SSA Education Abroad sought to establish a program in Puerto Rico and selected the campus as the ideal institution for its students. The first participant arrived at Sagrado in 2013.
“The experience with SSA helped me see and appreciate Sagrado from a different perspective. Our campus is special for many reasons: its beauty, the warmth of its staff and faculty, and its fantastic location. Many students who have participated in the program have told me they enjoy our classes because they are dynamic and incorporate many projects and activities. On the other hand, many also enjoy the traditional Puerto Rican food in the cafeteria and being able to walk to the beach from our campus!” reflected Dr. Vega, who served as SSA’s resident director at Sagrado from 2022 through May 2026. Professor Iliana Ballester Panelli, from the Ferré Rangel School of Communication, has taken over the role since then.
The experiences shared by these students add to years of stories from participants whose lives have been transformed by this exchange program. “The students, staff, and faculty at Sagrado encourage these young people to continue deepening their knowledge of Spanish, our culture, and Puerto Rico. It is another way in which Sagrado advances its mission of creating a society that is more supportive, just, and peaceful,” Dr. Vega stated.