Increasing cultural consciousness through study abroad programs

This study analyzed teacher and non-teacher's perceptions towards Mexicans before and after being culturally and linguistically immersed into the culture. The results demonstrate that after being immersed in the Mexican culture for two weeks, participants were able to reflect and identify that some of their perceptions towards Mexicans and Mexican culture were not true. In addition, it is evident that participants demonstrated personal and professional growth as well as developed an expanded world view. In turn, this allowed some participants an opportunity to see the world from a different prospective, reflect, and initiate a process of transformation.