I applied to the Galápagos because I have a passion for biology, so of course, I'm looking forward to seeing the incredible biodiversity of the islands. But besides my nerdy motivations for studying abroad, I'm excited to travel on my own for the first time and really immerse myself in a new culture. That might sound cliché, but I know it will be a large part of my experience; especially since I'm living in a homestay, and the community on the island of San Cristobal is very close-knit. I've never traveled in a way that engages me in the culture of where I am so thoroughly, so I'm open to and looking forward to having that immersion while abroad.