“We have considered what it means to learn from a place instead of simply learning about it.”
– Human Rights & Resources Mexico Minor, Student Reflection

This summer, a group of Honors College students traveled beyond the classroom walls—way beyond—as part of the Integrated Minor in Human Rights and Resources: Mexico program. For four transformative weeks, they immersed themselves in Oaxaca and Mexico City, studying how history, culture, identity, environment, and equity intersect in everyday life.

From making tortillas with families in the Sierra Norte to analyzing indigenous artwork, students explored with curiosity, humility, and empathy. They asked hard questions, listened deeply, and laughed a lot. Learning happened everywhere: on mountaintops, at community gatherings, over shared meals, at international scientific centers, and even through salsa dancing.

Where the Honors Mission Meets Real-World Experience

The Integrated Minor in Human Rights and Resources program embodies the Honors College’s commitment to engaged learning, global vision, and lifelong impact. This unique study abroad curriculum allows students to connect their academic studies to global issues such as climate resilience, cultural preservation, and social justice.

Every activity—from discussing food sovereignty with indigenous farmers to examining the role of protest in public life—pushed students to think beyond disciplinary boundaries and challenge their assumptions. Students saw firsthand how learning extends into real-world complexity, aligning with the Honors College’s vision of producing intellectually grounded, socially responsible, and globally aware graduates. One participant noted how the experience deepened their sense of responsibility to the world, writing, “We realize that in order to take care of our world, we need to understand the balance between expanding society and maintaining the environment.”

A Living, Breathing Education

The trip wasn’t just academically rich—it was also deeply human. Students played traditional games in their language classes, shared reflections at the dinner table, built adobe bricks with local families, and explored bustling markets. As one student put it, “Through ice cream and late-night chatting sessions, we managed to build what I hope will be lifelong relationships.” 

They also spent time with communities affected by climate change, gentrification, and political marginalization—learning what resilience looks like up close. The experience created space for students to reflect on identity, service, joy, and justice. During one moment of connection, another student reflected, “In that moment, I realized that everyone deserves a chance and the right to feel the feeling of happiness, energy, connection, and release.”

This is what the Honors College means when we talk about developing the whole person—an education that builds not just knowledge, but purpose, empathy, and perspective.

An Invitation to Think Bigger

The Integrated Minor in Human Rights and Resources is one of several integrated minors offered through the Honors College, designed to give students interdisciplinary tools and immersive experiences that connect their majors to complex global themes.

For current students, the program is an opportunity to expand your perspective in ways you’ll carry for a lifetime. If you’re a prospective student, this is the kind of learning you can expect at Honors—hands-on, heart-filled, and high-impact.

Alumni, donors, and campus partners, this is your support in action—empowering students to become thoughtful leaders and engaged global citizens.

Want to know more about the Integrated Minors, apply to join our next trip, or learn how to support future student travelers? Visit honors.utah.edu/program/integrated-minors.

See the full trip highlights on Instagram:

The Mexico cohort shared their stories on Instagram to offer a student-led window into their journey. From thought-provoking quotes to photos of joyful community moments, the posts reveal a learning process grounded in curiosity, humility, and human connection.

The Honors College would like to extend our deepest thanks to the incredible partners who welcomed and inspired the class throughout their time in Mexico:

• Casa Xochiquetzal– A remarkable home in Mexico City supporting women with decades of lived experience, resilience, and strength. Thank you for sharing your stories, your time, and your extraordinary hospitality.
• CIMMYT – The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, where science and sustainability meet. Thank you for showing us how research can transform global food systems.
• CEPIADET – Advocates for indigenous language rights and justice in Oaxaca. Your work inspired us to think more critically about equity, access, and advocacy.
• Amigos del Sol – Our language school in Oaxaca. Thank you for making us laugh, think, and grow.
• Expediciones Sierra Norte – Stewards of the Sierra Norte mountains. Your community-based ecotourism model taught us what sustainability and connection truly look like.

We are especially grateful to the Carolyn and Kem C. Gardner Foundation, Randy and Maureen Shumway, Kimberly Gardner, and Phillip and Jon Lear for their generous financial support of this program. Gracias from all of us at the Honors College!

Explore their full experience: @utah_hrr_mexico_summer25