The first few days of studying abroad are full of excitement, adjustments, and “firsts” for everyone, especially me since I have never been abroad. Thus, this blog post is dedicated to all the last minute details I was stressed about before the trip and how my anxieties have been replaced with so much excitement, amazement, and gratitude in my first few days here!
Myth No. 1: “I Won’t Get Along With My Classmates”
Over the spring semester, we had a couple meetings a month to get to know one another and start learning relevant course information as well as logistical details. Everyone brought something unique to the table and was very open and engaged; however, it’s still natural to wonder if you are ready to take on entirely new countries with people you have just met. Three days in, I’ve already grown much closer to the people on the trip, especially my housemates! Me and Neona are roommates in our homestay and since we are both Biology majors, most of what we are studying about the Maya is completely new to us and we are developing skills we would never receive from a Biology or Chemistry course back in Austin. At night, Hudson, Neona, Adrián, Yves, and I all hang out on the rooftop outside our rooms and play cards while the neighborhood cat Bruno fights for our attention. We are each very different and come from our own backgrounds and interests, but that just makes our conversations all the more entertaining.
Pictured above are my lovely housemates on what I have been referring to as the “roof”.
Myth No. 2: “I Won’t Like My Homestay And The Local Culture”
Let me start off by saying that this myth is so untrue, I debated even adding it. From day 1, I have loved experiencing the culture of Antigua and in my homestay. From our arrival in Antigua, my homestay mom had snacks prepared for us and sat with us for a few hours conversing all about our backgrounds and her recommendations for just about anything we might want to visit in Antigua. Every time we come home, she checks in on how we are feeling, asks us what we like and don’t like about our meals, and introduces us to any new family members that might be hanging out. This others-focused mindset and attitude of hospitality is seen even on the streets of Antigua as we walk to class. Everyone here is so kind and I have had no bad things to say about our meals (and my family claims that I can be very picky).
Study abroad programs can get wrapped up in pre-departure anxieties; however, it’s only taken three days for me to say that I love it here and can’t wait to continue growing alongside all the people I’m with and in all the beautiful places we are traveling to!