My Experience at Tecnológico de Monterrey

Before arriving in Mexico, I had little idea of what to expect. I had seen the usual stereotypes, but I wanted to experience the country for myself, without preconceptions. What I found was an incredibly vibrant culture, full of warmth, energy, and surprises. From the very beginning, I made a conscious effort to dive into every experience, whether that was trying new foods, meeting people from all over the world, or simply adapting to a different way of life.

One of the biggest highlights of my time in Mexico was undoubtedly the food. I thought I knew what Mexican cuisine was, but I quickly realised I had barely scratched the surface. From breakfast tacos to café de olla, from spicy tamarind vodka to street food I could barely pronounce, I was constantly surprised by the range of flavors. I even experienced my first case of food poisoning—but that didn’t stop me from going straight back to the taco stands as soon as I recovered. If anything, it only reinforced my love for the food and my determination to experience Mexico as authentically as possible.

Beyond the food, the people I met made this experience truly unforgettable. Whether it was locals or fellow international students, I found that language played a huge role in building connections. I pushed myself to speak Spanish, even when it felt intimidating, and in return, I had some of the most rewarding interactions. Learning to navigate different cultural dynamics and perspectives made me realise just how powerful language can be in fostering genuine connections.

Reflecting on my Global Short Program, I feel incredibly grateful for everything I experienced. Mexico was more than just a destination—it was a place of growth, discovery, and connection. I left with a deeper appreciation for its culture, a newfound love for its food, and friendships that will last a lifetime. More importantly, I left with a mindset that I want to carry forward: to keep exploring, questioning, and embracing every experience with an open heart and mind.

Rebecca Walker
Bachelor of Business Bachelor of International Studies
Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM), Mexico
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship

For more information about the UTS Global Short Program visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal