A donor’s gift to Quinnipiac University provided Farley with a transformative educational experience that ignited her curiosity and enriched her respect for cultures different from her own. The 10-day community-based global learning trip left a lasting impression that continues to inspire her to support her local and global communities as she pursues a career in healthcare.

“Donor gifts such as the one Emily received help to reduce barriers to participation,” said Erin Sabato, senior director of global learning. “We believe that every student who wants to participate in a global learning program should be able to — regardless of financial means. Donor gifts help alleviate some of that financial strain so students can focus solely on finding the program best suited for their personal and professional goals.”

In addition to the Guatemala program, Quinnipiac donor gifts have supported students traveling to Ecuador, France, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Morocco and South Africa.

For Farley, her time in San Lucas Tolimán began in an unexpected way. After a late-night arrival and four-hour drive through the Guatemalan countryside, Farley and her fellow Quinnipiac students received a welcome reception that lifted their hearts and eased their travel-weary bodies and minds. Her eyes filled with tears when the group was greeted with smiles, waves and a chorus of “Welcome to San Lucas Tolimán” in Spanish from families and community members who met their van when it pulled into town. Quinnipiac’s deep ties in Guatemala -- the university has been traveling there continuously since 2008 -- quickly became evident and the personal connections only deepened from there.

The small lakeside town of San Lucas Tolimán is home to a vibrant community of mostly Maya Kaqchikel, one of the more than 20 Indigenous groups in Guatemala. San Lucas Tolimán is located on the shore of Lake Atitlán and surrounded by three volcanoes. During their stay, the five students and three faculty members were guests in local family homes, prepared and ate traditional cuisine, participated in cultural traditions and immersed themselves in the Maya way of life. The group explored important topics such as education, sustainability, natural resources, advocacy and human rights from residents and experts.

“After my experience, I would encourage other students to travel and get out of their comfort zone,” said Farley. “I’m so grateful that Quinnipiac provides opportunities to not only learn in a different county but really immerse yourself in a community rich in traditions and culture. Since I’ve returned home, I’m more open to new experiences. And I know I won’t ever forget the connections we made or regret the time spent learning from one another.”

Meaningful moments were engrained in the normal activities of the Guatemalan town. These included an impromptu celebration in the streets after the inauguration of President Bernardo Arévalo on Jan. 14, 2024, and watching the sunrise from handmade wooden boats with local fishermen as they studied natural food sources. On the final day of their stay, the students were invited to try on Maya “traje” (attire). It was an honor not lost on the group as they learned about not only the care and craftmanship involved in weaving and selling each clothing item, but also the important role clothing plays in shaping and maintaining cultural identity.

As a health sciences major with a minor in nutrition, Farley valued the knowledge shared by the area’s medical providers on Indigenous healing methods and medicine sources found in nature. But it was the time spent with the local youth, playing soccer and discovering common interests, that resonated with her the most. It was a reminder of the universal connections we share that transcend language and culture.  

“This trip would not have been possible without a donor’s generosity,” said Farley. “That support not only enriched my education but also inspired me to continue striving for excellence and to give back to communities. I will carry forward the lessons and experiences gained from this trip for the rest of my life.”