Christos M. – Industrial Engineering
To any student considering studying abroad in Montevideo: go for it. Uruguay is an
underrated gem in Latin America, and it offers an experience that’s culturally rich, safe, and
intellectually engaging.
First, brush up on your Spanish even basic phrases go a long way. While some people in
Montevideo understand English, you’ll find the city more accessible and welcoming when
you attempt to speak the local language. In term of English because they don’t get a lot of
American tourists down there in Montevideo, because everything there you can see in
about 3-4 day. You only need to know Spanish if you want to live in South America and
Spain ( besides Brazil who only speaks Portuguese). Don’t be afraid to mess up, what
matters most is your willingness to learn. A pocket phrasebook or offline translation app is
a great tool, especially in places without Wi-Fi. What is even more important to learn is
slang phrases and what the locals call different things because that will go way farther then
just learning from a textbook, and each country down here as a unique accent they use for
Spanish.
Second, pack for all seasons. Montevideo’s weather is unpredictable. You might need
shorts and a hoodie in the same day. Layers are your best friend. Bring a good rain jacket,
and don’t underestimate the wind, it can get quite strong, especially near the coast. When I
first got there the weather was similar to Florida where the humidity is 70-100% and it just
sticks to you, but as the month of May continued it got cold like windy and in the 40s and
50s. Which is the coldest it is goanna get but nothing like Pittsburgh or north east coast
winter weather of the cold.
Third, walk the city as much as you can. The best way to explore Montevideo is by foot.
Walk the Rambla. Visit Mercado del Puerto. Talk to vendors at the ferias (street markets).
These are the places where the culture truly comes alive. You’ll gain a better sense of the
city’s rhythm, its layout, and the everyday life of its people.
Fourth, say yes more often. Some of my most memorable experiences came from
spontaneous invitations to local music shows like the theatre , asado barbecues, or small
group outings like hanging out and drinking mate. Uruguayans are warm and inclusive if
you’re open to stepping outside your comfort zone. Don’t turn down an opportunity to try
something new and it may turn into your best memory.
Fifth, be curious. Ask questions, attend cultural events, and read about Uruguay’s history
and politics. The more you know, the more meaningful your interactions will be. You’ll find
that Uruguayans are proud of their country and eager to share their perspectives if you
show genuine interest especially in football aka soccer.
Lastly, take time to reflect. Journal. Take photos. Talk with your classmates. You’ll grow
more than you realize in the moment, and documenting your experience will help you
understand just how far you’ve come.
Montevideo gave me a deeper appreciation for the culture, community, and the value of
slowing down to connect. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat, but this study abroad
change my perspective on South America especially Uruguay in the heart of the Southern
cone.
Swanson School of Engineering 