What sparked your interest in Spanish and Latin American studies, and how have those academic focuses shaped your international experiences? 

Glancy: I initially came to UVA focused on East Asian Studies and Politics, but as I started learning more about UVA’s complex history with race, I felt myself being pulled toward Race Studies as a topic. In my second semester, I ended up taking a class with Ira Bashkow called Comparing World Racisms. We explored how race is constructed in different countries, and I was especially fascinated by Brazil and other Latin American countries, as it linked into my own Afro-Caribbean and mixed-race heritage. 

That interest grew even more when I studied abroad in Spain! Being immersed in the language and culture, while learning about the country’s colonial history and political climate, was really eye-opening and grew my passion for Spanish and Latin American studies. After another year of courses at UVA, I felt the need to focus more on the Latinx experience, which led me to study in Argentina. There, I took courses on politics, economics, and history, which gave me a more global perspective on what I was learning in the classroom! It’s been exciting to carry these studies and experiences into my third and now fourth year at UVA, and I’m so glad I was able to participate in the program I did!

Your internship in Buenos Aires focused on feminist and LGBTQ+ literature. Tell us about that and how it impacted your experience of Argentina as a place. 

Glancy: I interned at a book cooperative called La Libre. Unlike the U.S., where large publishing houses dominate the market, Argentina instead relies on independent booksellers and cooperatives. Because of this, it was really refreshing to see how these smaller, community-driven shops were at the heart of spreading literature, especially works that challenged mainstream ideas. While I was there, I helped organize events, book talks, and readings that centered on feminist and queer literature. 

Something that really impacted me was how closely tied La Libre was able to be to the local community. They didn’t just give queer and feminist authors a platform—they created a space where those voices were celebrated and amplified. Seeing this firsthand gave me a deeper understanding of how Buenos Aires as a city works to be progressive, inclusive, and dedicated in their support to marginalized communities. I was also able to see how community spaces like La Libre are really central in empowering individuals and shaping cultural dialogue! This had a big impact on my understanding of Argentina, and it made me appreciate the powerful intersection of literature and activism even more.

Tell us about a highlight or a transformative experience during your time abroad. 

Glancy: While I was in Argentina, I had the chance to see one of the protests by Las Madres de Plaza de Mayo. Every Thursday, they march around the Plaza de Mayo, right by the president’s office, Casa Rosada. These women began protesting during the Dirty War, when the military regime abducted, tortured, and killed thousands of political opponents, while taking children born to prisoners. Their goal has always been to find their disappeared children and hold those responsible accountable. 

It was inspiring to see their resilience and how they’ve come together to demand justice. Many of them weren’t involved in politics before, but they became the faces of a human rights movement. Their weekly marches have become a powerful symbol of resistance. Seeing this in person helped me understand how important collective action can be, and how the fight for truth and justice can shape conversations and create change both within a country and globally.

How do you use your experiences in Spain and Argentina in your work as an Education Abroad intern?

Glancy: My experiences in Spain and Argentina have really helped me connect with students who are planning to study abroad. In Spain, I learned a lot about how being fully immersed in a language and culture can really enhance your experience, while my time in Argentina taught me how important it is to engage with the local community and understand the country’s history and current issues. 

When I talk to students, I like to share these experiences to help them prepare. I try to get them excited about stepping outside their comfort zones, learning from the people they meet, and really taking in all the little things that make studying abroad such a powerful experience. It’s not just about what you learn in class, it’s how you grow as a person!

What advice would you give to students considering studying abroad in Latin America or pursuing careers in international development? 

Glancy: My main advice would be to keep an open mind and be ready to learn. Latin America offers such diverse cultures and perspectives that might challenge the more Eurocentric worldview many of us are used to. I think this makes it so important to engage with local communities and listen to people’s experiences, whether it’s from students, community members, your host parents, or people you meet on the street! 

Study abroad also isn’t just about academics! It’s a chance to adapt, learn from others, and embrace new ways of thinking. If you go in with an open mind, your experience will be much more meaningful. I think that kind of mindset will benefit you in the long run, especially if you’re interested in international development or any career that involves working across cultures.