College students across South Dakota are heading back to campus this fall with stories of summer adventures. Few, though, perhaps top those of Flandreaus Angel Vazquez.
The 2022 Flandreau High School graduate just returned from Den Haag, or The Hague, Netherlands, where he studied European Union cooperation, human rights, global sustainability and social justice. He was one of only 10 students nationwide chosen for the program through the University of South Dakota.
Im grateful for the connections and insights I gained from all of my peers, Vazquez wrote in a Facebook post before returning home in early August.
Five years ago I had no clue where I wanted to be and pursuing higher education was something that seemed unattainable given my circumstances. Special shoutout to Upward Bound for igniting a spark in me and my community for always uplifting me.
Vazquez has worked as a park ranger with the National Park Service and interned with the Minnesota Historical Society. He was also recognized earlier this year as an Udall Scholar honorable mention. The Udall Foundation is a federal agency created in 1992 to honor Morris K. Udalls legacy by supporting environmental stewardship, public lands, natural resources, and the self-determination of Native Americans and Alaska Natives.
The Moody County Enterprise caught up with Vazquez after his return from Europe and before he headed into his senior year at USD in Vermillion.
MCE: Tell us about your experience abroad. What prompted you to apply?
Angel: I met the criteria as a TRIO student (a federal program for disadvantaged students) and was nominated by a faculty member who felt I was a strong candidate. I was one of 10 students selected from across the nation and US territories. I made it my goal to study abroad since my freshman year. However, I wasnt able due to complications such as a lack of funds, cancellations of university programs, and personal circumstances.
MCE: What were your hopes for the experience?
Angel: I hoped to gain experience in navigating other cultures and strengthening my cross-cultural competency. I also wanted to make meaningful connections with my peers while also furthering my own personal growth. Additionally, I was interested in comparing aspects of US society to Dutch society, particularly infrastructure, sustainability, and food.
MCE: Looking back, what do you feel you gained?
Angel: I definitely formed meaningful personal connections as well as academic and professional ones. I gained a lot of knowledge on the democratic process within the Netherlands and European Union. I learned a lot about the Dutch educational system.
MCE: Where did you stay and visit?
Angel: In the first week, I spent a night in Amsterdam. For the remainder of the week, I stayed in a small Dutch village named Schrool. Afterwards, I spent a night in Leiden. Lastly, I lived in The Hague for 2 weeks in a student hotel. I took a small day trip to Brussels to sightsee. In the same weekend, I ventured north to Groningen to visit a friend from the Netherlands who participated in an exchange program at my university. I also visited the German Embassy and Tweede Kamer (House of Representatives) in The Hague.
MCE: What was your favorite part?
Angel: Meeting other students and learning about their life experiences. I loved trying out new food. Seeing the North Sea was also amazing.
MCE: What are your ultimate goals and career hopes?
Angel: After I graduate this year, I intend to pursue a masters degree. I havent decided where though. As for my career, I am still learning what I want to do. At one point, I thought I had decided, but nothing is set in stone. My ultimate goal is to gain as much experience and knowledge as I can to help my people/community. Currently, Ive got my hands in a variety of different fields such as archaeology, sustainability, cultural preservation/museum work. Lately, Ive been interested in the intersection between the environment, food, food sovereignty/security, and culture. Its safe to say that I am open to exploring my options. I am sure Ill be satisfied wherever the road takes me.
MCE: Whats driving you in any of this?
Angel: The support invested in me by my friends, family, and university faculty motivates me to do well. Its very uplifting to know I have people who constantly support me. I wouldnt be here without that support.
MCE: What would you want any other local student to know?
Angel: Put yourself out there and dont be afraid to try something new. Be open to change and uncertainty. If youre ever questioning your place or dealing with imposter syndrome, remember you are where you are for a reason.
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