Reflexivity Compass Points

By: Sophia Hinestrosa

Throughout my time in Seville, I have gained a much deeper understanding of my Community-Based Inquiry (CBI), which focuses on comparing access to healthcare in Spain and the United States. One of the most important things I have learned is how healthcare in Spain is viewed as a public service that is available to everyone, while in the United States access is often connected to insurance coverage and cost. Before coming to Spain, I knew there were differences between the two systems, but I assumed those differences would mostly be financial. Through conversations with locals, professors, and healthcare professionals, I have learned that healthcare access also affects people’s experiences, expectations, and overall relationship with the healthcare system.

Personally, I have changed since the start of the Global Scholars program. I arrived in Seville expecting to focus mainly on collecting information, but I have found myself becoming more curious about the human side of healthcare. Instead of only comparing statistics, I am now interested in understanding how individuals experience healthcare in their daily lives. This shift has made my research feel more meaningful and connected to real people.

My environment has also played a major role in shaping my understanding of this issue. Compared to my home in the United States, Seville feels more community-oriented. People spend time in public spaces, walk frequently, and often have strong connections to their neighborhoods. These observations have helped me think about how healthcare access extends beyond hospitals and clinics. The relationships I am building with professors, teachers, and community members are helping me see healthcare through multiple perspectives and are guiding the direction of my Capstone project.

Looking ahead, I want to continue conducting interviews and gathering personal stories that highlight both the strengths and challenges of each healthcare system. My experiences in Seville have helped my Capstone move from a simple comparison of two countries to a deeper exploration of how healthcare access impacts people’s lives. As I continue my research, I hope to better understand what lessons each system can learn from the other.