Shyisha Hodges, from Davenport, Iowa, is a first-generation college student at the University of Iowa studying sociology with a minor in Spanish. In spring 2023, after receiving an Ann Morse Scholarship, Hodges studied abroad in Costa Rica through USAC Heredia. Learn more about her life-changing experience through the Q&A piece below.
How was your study abroad experience in Costa Rica?
My experience in Costa Rica was truly life changing. I remember prior to going, I had always heard the same things over and over about how studying abroad would be. But after my experience, I realized everyone was right. I made close friendships and unique memories in the short time I was there that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I learned cultural values that have changed the way I view life and myself. I developed a beautiful relationship with my host mother who now feels like a real mother to me. I saw and experienced things that I don’t think I would’ve ever experienced without this opportunity. And it overall made me appreciate life more; I saw firsthand the beauty in the differences of cultures, lifestyles, and human nature.
One of my two big goals before leaving was to grow as a person and to improve my Spanish-speaking skills. Both were achieved plus more! Being immersed in an environment where I had no choice but to speak the language, I improved my Spanish within weeks of being there, and throughout the four months, I learned more than I ever expected to. I left feeling very proud of my ability and almost shocked at how naturally it happened. Learning in this environment was so different than in a classroom and was a more genuine and applicable way to learn. I feel so connected to my study abroad experience and there will always be a part of my heart that will house Costa Rica and my experiences there.
"Apply! Seriously, it would not have been the slightest bit possible for me to study abroad without the opportunity for financial help. Likewise, I now am a big advocate for not being discouraged by big opportunities that seem out of reach."
What does receiving the Ann Morse Scholarship mean to you?
Receiving this scholarship meant everything to me. Ever since I was younger, I have always had this ambition to gain a valuable education and experiences in order to better my life and the lives of my family after years and years of hardship. Studying abroad had always been a dream of mine throughout my educational experience as I wanted to travel, which is something neither my family nor I have ever been able to do.
More importantly, I wanted to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience that would help me grow as an individual and academically and open my eyes to the world all around me. Being the first person in generations to go to college is not only important to me, it’s one of my biggest and proudest decisions. Being able to receive an education in an entirely different country while bettering my ability in a different language seemed so out of reach for me though. My family doesn’t have much so I knew I would have to work hard to be able to have an experience like this. Likewise, it’s not common for people like me to have these opportunities or feel it’s possible for them. That was made possible by receiving scholarships and grants, so receiving this scholarship was very important to me.
What is your advice to other Iowa students applying for study abroad scholarship funding opportunities?
I would definitely advise them to utilize these resources! Apply! Seriously, it would not have been the slightest bit possible for me to study abroad without the opportunity for financial help. Likewise, I now am a big advocate for not being discouraged by big opportunities that seem out of reach. As I said before, I always felt this was something impossible for me due to my background. However, there are ways and opportunities out there that can help people of similar backgrounds achieve the things we are meant to without being burdened by the social and systemic obstacles faced throughout our lives. We are just as capable and worthy of education and big life-changing experiences.
Learn more about study abroad scholarships
International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.