This year's CNM Study Abroad group posing in front of one of the temples of Teotihuacán, an ancient Aztec urban center
CNM Study Abroad group at the Mesoamerican city of Teotihuacán

CNM’s Study Abroad Program Visits Mexico City

During the nine-day trip students had the chance to learn more about the rich history and vibrant urban life of Mexico City
October 01, 2024

For the last several years CNM’s Latin American Studies program has hosted a study abroad program where students traveled to Antigua, Guatemala with a focus on ancient culture and traditions. This year, Brandon Morgan, Latin American Studies instructor and Associate Dean of CNM’s School of Liberal Arts, and Jessica Craig, a Latin American Studies and Anthropology instructor, took students to Mexico City for the first time. 

“Diversifying our travel location has been a program goal for a while, and Mexico City was the perfect fit in terms of cost and travel time,” Brandon says. “Going to Mexico City, one of the oldest and most vibrant urban centers, also gave our students the chance to explore and gain a better understanding of urban life in Latin America.”

The group of CNM study abroad students at a dinner table

Ten CNM students from various academic programs were selected to participate in the nine-day trip. Over the course of their travel they went through a cooking class, visited ancient urban centers like the Mesoamerican cities of Teotihuacán and Tenochtitlan, and went to several museums, including the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul), Bosque de Chapultepec, and the National Anthropology Museum. 

For Mikayla Vasquez-Salgado, a recent graduate from CNM’s Anthropology program, each of these experiences highlighted the vibrant and progressive urban culture found in Mexico City.   

“My favorite part of this trip was getting to explore a truly walkable city,” Mikayla says. “It was amazing to turn a corner and find some kind of event or social gathering happening. I truly never felt out of place while we were there.” 

Anthropology student Vanessa Salazar said the archeological aspects of the trip were the most impactful.  

“I learned about Teotihuacán and Tenochtitlan in my studies, so visiting both sites was incredible,” Vanessa says. “I also got to see an ancient mural I had recreated for a class project, which was special in so many ways.” 

Now that they’ve returned, Jessica and Brandon are already working on next year’s trip to Guatemala and want to encourage interested students to apply for the program.  

“Studying abroad is such a unique opportunity and gives you a chance to broaden your worldview,” Jessica says. “This program is also a great way to build confidence and make friendships, and I’m already looking forward to traveling with our next group of students.” 

Interested in studying abroad? Fill out this interest form (CNM email address required) for the Antigua, Guatemala trip that Dr. Morgan and Dr. Craig will be taking in July 2025. Applications will be accepted through Nov. 22.  Please contact Dr. Morgan at [email protected] or Dr. Craig at [email protected] with any questions.