Q: How did you feel about being able to return to your home country?
‍
Dalia: Honestly, going back to Mexico was the most amazing thing that I have done as an adult. It was both surreal and slightly nerve-wracking. I was initially very nervous about it, but once I was on the plane to Mexico, it was like all the nervousness faded away. Being able to go back was a little bittersweet because I wish I could bring my family along with me and have them share in this incredible moment. But I am thankful for the opportunity I had, and tried to share it with them as much as I could.
‍
Q: What was the most memorable experience of the fellowship?

Dalia: I loved every moment of the trip, but the most memorable experience was having the opportunity to go back to my hometown and see my grandma again. The last time I had seen her I was 8 years old. She is my last living grandparent, and being reunited with her was truly something special. I also loved the time I got to spend with my family in the hometown. It was truly like coming home.
‍
Q: Now that you're back, what impact did the fellowship have on your life?

Dalia: Before going back to Mexico, I used to miss Mexico in this abstract way. I missed the idea of Mexico. Now that I’ve been back, it’s changed my life. I yearn to go back. I miss it in ways I didn’t think I would. If I could go back tomorrow, I totally would. I think for the longest time I tried so hard to assimilate to this country, that I lost a part of myself. Going back made it clear to me that I’m orgullosamente Mexicana.