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IRAP: Two weeks in Yucatán that changed my life

Studying abroad can be intimidating, but a two-week program is an excellent way to get a feel of the experience.

You are here: Home / Academic activities / IRAP: Two weeks in Yucatán that changed my life

March 1, 2023 By: Guest Blogger

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Ingenium guestblogger Joel Lopez posing in front of pyramid on Yucatan peninsula in Mexico

Howdy! My name is Joel Barajas Lopez, but most importantly, I am the loudest and proudest member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2025! A-A-A-A-A!

group of college students participating in research abroad program in Yucatan, Mexico pose together in front of building

I had the opportunity to take part in the Introduction to Research Abroad Program (IRAP) in Yucatán, Mexico. The trip had an exceptionally high educational and cultural value, and I received exposure to different fields of science, engineering and business. The program allowed me to step outside my comfort zone, explore these fields and gain a multidisciplinary perspective on research. 

I visited many laboratories throughout the Yucatán Peninsula and attended lectures from a multidisciplinary range of professors from Texas A&M and the Yucatán host universities. I can definitely say I learned something new every day on the trip!

Young man standing in jungle on Yucatan peninsula in Mexico

Yucatán was a region of Mexico I had never visited, so being able to be part of the rich culture of Yucatán was a phenomenal experience. I gained a new perspective on the Mexican culture I hold and the indigenous Mayan culture. 

This trip introduced me not just to research but also to new life-long friendships. I networked with students from other Texas A&M campuses, undergraduate students from Yucatán, graduate/doctoratoral students at the labs and many researchers.

For anybody considering studying abroad, I highly recommend this program. Studying abroad can be intimidating, but a two-week program is an excellent way to get a feel of the experience. 

Having the opportunity to study in my family’s country brings me great pride. I came to this program hoping to become a better person, professional and scholar, and I can confidently say I met my goal. This program was a fantastic close to the first year of my undergraduate career!

If you found this blog post interesting, you may consider reading “How Being Abroad Made Me Value My Major More” and “Making the Most of What Texas A&M Has to Offer.”

Topics: Academic activities, Student life, Study Abroad experience

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