We are thrilled to share the experiences of three Access Academies scholars who participated in the Quest Study Abroad Program. Below you can read how Karla, Diamond, and Johnathan used their experiences to explore new cultures and build friendships across borders.

•𝗞𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗮 𝗕. (Notre Dame High School - St. Louis ’27 | St. Cecilia School & Academy ’23) spent six weeks in Argentina, where she walked to school, ate lunches with her host family, and often met friends for a late afternoon snack called merendar. She noticed differences in everything from the school schedule (gym class is always after school) to the time people eat dinner (11pm!) to the local Spanish accent, which became easier to understand the more she talked with people. Her most memorable moments include eating ravioli and celebrating Argentina’s World Cup wins with friends. She offers this advice to students considering studying abroad: “If it’s fear that stops you, I would not hesitate to still take the chance. It will change your perspective in life.”

•𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗛. (Nerinx Hall ’27 | Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School ’23) spent a month in Malaysia, dividing her time between activities with other study abroad students and life with her host family. She attended classes, explored the country, and learned about the role religion plays in Malaysian public life. On her last day in school — one filled with fun activities, pictures, and never-ending hugs — friends sent her off with a personalized keychain and a big bag of Malaysian snacks. Diamond was struck by how meaningful her friendships had become. Her advice to potential study abroad applicants: “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Be the go-getter who sees the world and learns about different cultures.”

•𝗝𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗥. (Francis Howell Central High School ’27 | St. Cecilia School & Academy ’23) spent two months studying in Argentina. His school days ended around noon, leaving afternoons to explore the city center, work out, and play basketball with his host sister. He especially enjoyed eating empanadas. Jhonathan had worried about making friends before the trip, but he did — and came home with simple advice for future travelers: “It’s okay to be nervous.”

Thank you to the Boniface Foundation for its support which allowed Access Academies to cover airfare for each scholar and a $600 stipend for each student.