As a Social Work major with a minor in Spanish, Miranda Milan’s educational journey at Keuka College was significantly enriched by the College’s Field Period® program. This unique real-world internship program allowed Miranda to immerse herself in Latin American culture and gain invaluable hands-on experience in her field of study.
One of Miranda’s most impactful Field Period experiences was traveling to El Sauce, Nicaragua, with the Rochester-based 4Walls Project. This organization’s mission is to improve the lives of families by constructing safe, sturdy homes. Miranda’s participation in this project was supported by the Judith Oliver Brown Memorial Scholarship, which aids students in pursuing culturally enriching Field Period experiences.
“This trip gave me the chance to learn more about Latin culture in the best possible way—by experiencing it firsthand,” said Miranda.
Her previous Field Period work with immigrant youth from Hispanic countries had already sparked her interest in such cultural experiences, making this trip a perfect fit.
During her time in Nicaragua, Miranda learned numerous life lessons and deepened her passion for social work and Latin culture. A standout experience was the completion of a house for a local family.
“The family gave us a letter thanking us for thinking of them and giving them the safety they had lacked before,” Miranda recalled.
Social Work major Miranda Milan sharpened the skills necessary to thrive in her chosen field – working with multicultural communities – during her Field Period experience in Nicaragua.
Beyond building houses, Miranda also cherished her interactions with the Nicaraguan people and the natural beauty of the region. She enjoyed touring the city of Ocotal, and participating in activities like horse riding, visiting coffee plantations, and making tortillas. These experiences not only broadened her understanding of rural Nicaraguan culture but also allowed her to improve her Spanish-speaking skills in a real-world context.
“Being in Nicaragua was the perfect opportunity to practice my Spanish,” she said. “The people were ready, willing, and happy to help me learn.”
Miranda’s time in Nicaragua solidified her desire to serve multicultural clients as a social worker.
“This trip transformed me personally and professionally,” she noted. “It taught me the true value of helping others simply because you can. That’s not something you can learn in a classroom—you have to feel it.”
Keuka College’s Field Period program provided Miranda with more than just academic knowledge; it offered life-changing experiences that enhanced her social work degree and overall educational journey. Through hands-on projects, cultural immersion, and personal growth, Miranda exemplifies how the Field Period program equips students with the skills and insights needed to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields.
