Over spring break, I had the opportunity to travel to Loreto, Mexico, with nine other students from Notre Dame’s Latino Studies Scholars Program (LSSP), for a memorable week of immersive learning, leadership development, and cross-cultural exchange. Funded by the Institute for Latino Studies in collaboration with Eco-Alianza––a local nonprofit organization focused on environmental conservation–– the trip allowed us to step out of the classroom and engage directly with a community in innovative work in conservation and public service.
The trip was made even more special by the involvement of Megan Rogers, Notre Dame Class of 2022, who now works as a consultant at Eco-Alianza and helped coordinate our visit.
The group included six first-year students and four sophomores, accompanied by Paloma Garcia-Lopez, Associate Director of ILS, and Joseph Trinidad Rodriguez, Implementation and Financial Specialist of ILS. For many of us, it was our first time traveling internationally with Notre Dame, and for some, the first time on a boat, snorkeling, or working with an organization like Eco-Alianza.
The week balanced structured leadership development workshops with moments of reflection. Students had time to consider their values, leadership style, and the communities we hope to serve in the future. Staff-led workshops with Eco-Alianza challenged us to think deeply about how our own passions — in politics, science, education, or data analysis — could be tools to create a better world. Loreto’s natural beauty and culture provided the perfect setting for this kind of personal and intellectual reflection.
Perhaps the most meaningful day was working with local elementary students through Eco-Alianza’s environmental education program. LSSP students oversaw stations, facilitated educational activities, and shared lunch with the children and teachers of the Colegio Calafia de Loreto. It was a hands-on experience to connect with local students while learning about environmental education in action.
Students also explored Bahía de Loreto National Park by boat. Guided by Eco-Alianza staff, we visited islands and learned about regional ecosystems and wildlife conservation programs. Along the journey, we were able to see sea lions, birds, dolphins, and even blue whales. It was more than a tour, as we were learning firsthand the importance of keeping fragile ecosystems intact and how local organizations play a part in it.
One of the most surprising takeaways for many students was just how broad Eco-Alianza’s work really is. It’s not limited to one issue. Instead, the organization weaves together environmental research, policy work, education, and community programs. Seeing that range helped students think about how their own academic interests could connect in unexpected ways, whether they’re studying science, policy, or social issues.
This trip also launches a bigger partnership. Loreto will become an official site of ILS’ Cross-Cultural Leadership Program (CCLP), which means more Notre Dame students will be able to immerse themselves in this unique experience and develop relationships with international partner organizations. This is a method of mutual comprehension and shared growth that ILS is excited to continue.
By the end of the week, it was clear that this experience had left a lasting impression. We didn’t just return with photos and stories —we came back with new questions, deeper friendships, and a stronger sense of what leadership can be when it is rooted in humility, curiosity, and community.