Spanish classes, required for the only major that seems even remotely plausible, seem to be an insurmountable obstacle. Spanish is not a bad language to learn, but when you have to do it in a classroom, and turn in regular homework assignments, it can be virtually impossible for those who have their own views on how language ought to be taught. Besides, working out in the gyms, studying martial arts, biking, riding the motorcycle, chasing girls, and many hours of walking the trails along the Mississippi River, are strong distractions. Just so happens a friend introduces the works of Carlos Castaneda, and also the practice of transcendental meditation. Carlos Castaneda's books introduce concepts of inner power, shamanism, and enlightenment from the perspective of the ancient Yaqui Indian cultures of Northern Mexico.
Transcendental meditation is an eastern perspective, it gives access to the inner quiet.
They compliment one another. An idea forms. A solo journey to South America is what a young man needs. Besides, that way he can learn to speak Spanish. Even before the departure.