Eight student-athletes from the University of Richmond are participating in a trip to Chile as part of the EnCompass Program, according to a May 4 update. The group is spending nine days in the country, engaging with local culture and history through various activities.
The trip aims to expose students to new experiences and perspectives by immersing them in Chilean society. Activities include visits to significant landmarks, interactions with local residents, and opportunities for reflection on public expression and current events.
During their second day, the group traveled from their hotel for breakfast before heading on a scenic drive to Valparaiso. Their guide provided insights into local customs such as road closures for community events and pointed out notable sites like the headquarters of the Chilean Navy. In Valparaiso, students observed a cueca dance performance and explored street art murals that blend traditional mural work with graffiti elements. Veronica Rrapi from Women’s Soccer said that exploring these murals helped connect symbolism from artists’ work with broader themes: “It was very interesting because they said murals take the place of graffiti, but here they were combined! We really enjoyed spending the morning wandering through this beautiful coastal town and connecting the symbolism from the artist’s work while exploring connections between public expression and current events.”
The itinerary also included a visit to Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda’s house for an audio-guided tour across its five levels. Rrapi described Neruda’s home as filled with unique items reflecting his appreciation for simple pleasures: “Neruda’s house was so fun, filled with random toys and games. He clearly valued the simple pleasures: good company, detailed drinkware, and just beautiful items throughout his house.” Afterward, lunch was held at Los Compadres restaurant on Playa Portales beach where some participants swam despite cool fall temperatures.
Later that day, students attended a professional soccer match between Santiago Wanderers and Deportes Temuco. Rrapi commented on the lively atmosphere created by fans who sang and played drums throughout: “Many were amused by the fans who sang, chanted, and played drums for the entirety of the game… The energy here was incredible.” The day concluded at a local farm where students learned about self-sustainable living practices before enjoying dinner made entirely from fresh ingredients grown or produced onsite.
Rrapi expressed gratitude for these immersive experiences: “This experience was incredible and we were all thankful for the many new things we were able to learn and see today.”
