Adventures Abroad Winding Down on 05.31.25:

As our journey came to a close in the heart of Granada, I found myself overcome with gratitude—gratitude for the cultures we embraced, the connections we formed, the challenges we overcame, and, of course, the countless meals we shared that nourished both body and soul. This morning, I grabbed a quick bite at the hotel breakfast buffet before stepping into our final day of discovery, eager to soak up every last moment of this life-changing experience.

First stop: The Alhambra and Generalife. Guided by Antonio—whose knowledge and passion were as vivid as the Andalusian sky—we walked the halls of history. The Alhambra, a 12th-century fortress and palace complex, rose before us not just as an architectural marvel, but as a living, breathing monument to the human spirit. Each pillar and passage echoed with the whispers of civilizations past. We began in the serene gardens of Generalife, a fragrant paradise of flowers and fountains, intentionally crafted as a refuge from the city’s summer heat. The gardens bloomed with color and life, and for me, it was the most majestic corner of the entire complex. Tucked just below the grandeur of the palace, it offered the most refreshing stillness—a quiet reminder that beauty often lives in the spaces where we least expect it. As we made our way through the Alhambra, I couldn’t help but feel awe rise within me. The palace doesn’t just tell a story—it sings one. Draped in the warm light of southern Spain, it stands not merely as a feat of engineering but as a poem carved in stone—a timeless tribute to imagination, resilience, and the delicate impermanence of human creation.

Beautiful Blooms at the Alhambra

Horizons at the Alhambra with Iker hands high in the back

Following this unforgettable tour, we gathered for our final group lunch with Iker, our ISA representative and one of most vibrant souls we’ve met on this journey. Though our time with him was brief, his deep love for Spain and its rich, interconnected history left an undeniable mark on us all. His stories connected us to Morocco, to the Alhambra, and to the broader narrative of shared human experience. As we said our goodbyes, I realized that even the shortest encounters can leave lifelong impressions. Before parting ways for our final moments abroad, we came together to reflect on our personal growth and the leadership lessons we’ll carry forward. Some scholars shared how this trip dismantled preconceived notions about life outside the U.S., others discovered strength and adaptability they never knew they had. For me, it was something different—something deeper.

This was my first time traveling abroad. I arrived eager to learn, but I never imagined how profoundly this journey would reshape me. Over these past three weeks, I’ve come to understand just how vital it is to step outside of our own worldview. I’ve seen what it means to lead not just with knowledge, but with empathy. I’ve experienced hospitality that humbled me, and humility that inspired me. In contrast, I see now how often entitlement creeps into American culture—how easy it is to forget the world beyond our city limits, our comfort zones, our routines. As I continue to grow into the kind of leader I aspire to be, I carry with me a renewed commitment: to serve others with intentionality, to listen deeply, and to always honor the values of those around me. Leadership is not about standing in front—it’s about walking alongside and sharing moments in time that will leave a lasting impact.

Horizons Scholars receiving their lollipops or another words their flowers!

Late night selfie, luggage scale in hand - fingers crossed our luggage is underweight!

This journey has been breathtaking in every way. From the vibrant streets of Morocco to the timeless wonders of Spain, every step has revealed something new—not just about the world, but about ourselves. I feel incredibly blessed to have shared this experience with our remarkable scholars, who showed up every single day with open hearts and boundless curiosity. And I am endlessly grateful to have co-led this adventure with the incomparable Marquetta Strait—whose grace, wisdom, and spirit made this trip truly unforgettable. As we close this chapter, I don’t see it as an ending, but a beginning. A spark has been lit. We return not only with souvenirs and snapshots, but with stories that have transformed us—and with a vision for global leadership rooted in compassion, courage, and connection.

Onward. Always. #BOILERUP #TRIOWORKS

~ Chélei D.B.