Sarah Strent's Spotlight
Sarah Strent
About Sarah
Sarah is a fourth-year student at Penn State University Park majoring in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and Special Education. She is minoring in TESOL and Early Development and Education. During the summer of 2023, Sarah studied abroad in Ecuador through our Teaching ESL Certificate Program with Immersion in Cuenca, Ecuador.
Continue reading to learn more about how Sarah chose a program, how her experience abroad changed her life, and the highlights of her time in Ecuador in her own words!
Sarah posing at the ancient Inca and Canari ruins in Ingapirca, Ecuador
Sarah on a swing at Ingapirca, Ecuador
Sarah at the top of a cathedral in the heart of Cuenca, Ecuador
Sarah with her whole program in the ancient ruins of Ingapirca, Ecuador
Sarah with her friend in a cave in Saraguro, Ecuador
Sarah's Education Abroad Experience
"Entering Penn State over 3 years ago, I was always interested in participating in this specific education abroad program because of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to Ecuador and receive my TESOL certification! Additionally, the program was fairly affordable and there were many scholarship opportunities!
My experience was life-changing and eye-opening! Not only did I teach English to motivated students at the University of Cuenca, but I also took ESL-related classes! Additionally, we had many opportunities to explore the country through weekend excursions to the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest! A huge highlight of my education abroad experience was living with a host family, as I truly learned about the lifestyle and culture in Ecuador, as well as formed meaningful connections with Ecuadorians! I learned many lessons about myself and society throughout my education abroad experience, primarily advocating for English learners and enhancing my teacher identity.
I firmly believe my experience abroad helped me achieve my future and professional goals/aspirations because I now know that I want to continue traveling and exploring the world beyond college as an English educator and advocator for multilingual learners. This program helped me gain clarity about my future career along with networking and connections to facilitate a successful career in education! For this, I am extremely grateful!
I was surprised by the immense culture shock I felt when immersing myself in a new culture and lifestyle. But, over time, I gradually felt that I learned more about Ecuador's lifestyle and people and I was able to successfully adapt to everyday life!
My advice is to go for it! It is certainly scary to go out of your comfort zone and take risks, but it will be so worth it and beneficial for your career and everyday life!"