This piece resonates with me a lot, not only because it is beautifully recorded and edited, but because my father had a similar experience immigrating to the United States from a small village in the Peruvian Andes. He too was invited to study abroad, his opportunity coming from two American anthropologists. These experiences involve uprooting, family separation, and brave individuals whose stories are important to the American narrative. According to Maria Isabel, whose voice we hear throughout the piece, this experience changed her life for the better. For me, this story also brings up realities of white supremacy and privilege, colonialism and patriarchy.

Victoria Campos did an incredible job recording and editing this piece so that it really moves the listener. The music was a great touch and helped the piece flow smoothly. I could definitely imagine it being a part of the new series “The Hidden World of Girls” hosted by Tina Fey. I would love to hear a longer version of the story that spoke about Maria Isabel’s life in the United States.