During her junior year, Esparza studied abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where she began to develop confidence in her language and research skills. As her semester ended, her advisor, Steven Gardner, suggested applying for a Fulbright scholarship to return to Argentina. This idea resonated with her, as it aligned perfectly with her desire to continue growing as a scholar while immersing herself in Argentine culture and improving her Spanish fluency.

Illinois College played a pivotal role in preparing Esparza for the Fulbright opportunity. The college’s emphasis on interdisciplinary studies allowed her to integrate her language and history majors through independent study projects, equipping her with the necessary linguistic confidence and academic rigor to succeed in Argentine universities. Her time in Argentina during her undergraduate studies laid the groundwork for teaching and conducting research there during her Fulbright year.

The guidance and support Esparza received from Illinois College faculty were instrumental in her Fulbright application process. Gardner, along with Margaret Marek and Steven Hochstadt, helped her refine her application materials, ensuring her academic goals were effectively articulated. Their feedback was crucial to her success, enabling her to secure the scholarship on her first attempt. One of the most impactful experiences during her time abroad was interviewing individuals who had lived through Argentina’s transition from dictatorship to democracy. These personal encounters deepened her understanding of the ongoing legacies of state violence, enriching her research and shaping her approach to her dissertation.

The Fulbright experience also influenced Esparza's academic career. It strengthened her resolve to pursue a doctorate in Latin American history and made her application to a top graduate program more competitive. The personalized attention and mentorship she received at Illinois College were key factors in her successful transition to graduate school, where she continues to excel. 

Looking back, Esparza credits Illinois College with providing the foundation for her success in both the Fulbright program and her current graduate studies. “The close-knit community of students and faculty at Illinois College nurtured my self-confidence, enabling me to take intellectual risks and pursue my interests, Esparza explains, “This foundation was crucial in navigating the challenges of the Fulbright program and graduate school.”