Maeve Travels to Peru!

The Countdown Is On

Long time, no see, Blog!

I am reporting to you… a little late (sorry, Professor El-Jourbagy)! After spending the past couple of weeks hiking in California and attending my UGA transfer orientation, I am finally back home. The craziest part? I leave for Peru in just four days. Yes, FOUR DAYS!

While I am definitely feeling a little nervous, I am mostly ecstatic. I am so excited to experience a new country, immerse myself in a different culture, and take everything in for what it is. One thing that has already helped me feel more prepared is learning about Peru’s geography and climate. Similar to some of the hiking locations I visited in California, parts of Peru are at high elevations, including some of the places we will be visiting. After dealing with the elevation in California, I discovered that I am apparently prone to nosebleeds at higher altitudes. At least now I know to pack plenty of tissues!

What I Have Learned So Far

Even before leaving, this pre-departure experience has already taught me so much. I have learned about Peru’s culture, economy, sustainability efforts, and the role businesses play within the country. One thing that has stood out to me is how interconnected everything is. Through my classmates’ presentations, I have gained a much better understanding of the different industries and organizations that help Peru function while also addressing sustainability challenges.

I have also enjoyed learning about topics that I likely would not have researched on my own. From environmental stressors and conservation efforts to international business practices, every presentation seemed to offer a new perspective. The more I learn, the more excited I become to experience these topics outside of a classroom setting and see them firsthand.

My Favorite Pre-Departure Assignment

My favorite pre-departure assignment was definitely our final presentation. To my surprise, I found myself really enjoying the topic of aspirational statements and sustainability protocols. Before this project, I never paid much attention to the difference between what a company says it values and what it actually does. While researching, I learned that a strong mission statement means very little if a company does not back it up with meaningful action.

Since completing that project, I have started looking at companies differently. I pay closer attention to their environmental initiatives and whether their actions align with their promises. It is rare for a class project to change the way I think in my everyday life, but this one genuinely has. It has made me more conscious of the companies I support, and the impact businesses can have on society and the environment. 

My Favorite Pre-Departure Film

Another one of my favorite pre-departure activities was watching Before the Flood. The documentary provided a powerful visual representation of climate change and its effects on ecosystems, wildlife, and communities worldwide. What stood out to me most was seeing how environmental issues affect people around the world in such different ways. It reinforced the idea that sustainability requires action from all of us, not just governments. I actually rewatched the documentary again, not too long ago, and it helped connect many of the sustainability concepts we have discussed throughout the course and gave me a better understanding of why these topics matter.

How I Hope This Experience Will Impact Me

As I sit here writing this blog, I cannot stop smiling because in less than a week, I will be in Peru alongside my newfound friends and one of my favorite professors. I am incredibly grateful for all of the background knowledge I have gained through these pre-departure classes, but I know there is only so much you can learn in a classroom. I am excited to experience Peru firsthand!

I hope this experience helps me grow both personally and professionally. I want to gain a deeper understanding of sustainability and leadership while learning how people in different cultures approach challenges. I am also hoping that this experience will make me more independent and encourage me to step outside of my comfort zone. As someone who has not traveled internationally without my family before, I know this experience will push me outside of my comfort zone, and I think that is where some of the most meaningful growth happens.

Making the Most of My Experience

More than anything, I want to be fully present throughout this journey. I plan to make the most of my experience by asking questions, engaging with the people we meet, participating in every activity, and embracing opportunities that might initially feel outside of my comfort zone. I want to learn from local communities and gain a deeper appreciation for Peru’s culture and history.

Of course, I am also excited to try new foods, meet amazing people, explore places I have only seen in pictures, and create memories that will last a lifetime. I hope the experiences I have in Peru continue to shape how I view the world long after the trip ends. My goal is to return home with not only unforgettable memories but also a broader perspective on sustainability, business, and leadership.

I’m so excited for you, Peru!