As I was reflecting on our month abroad with Mizuki, we were discussing our favorite parts of the program and the experiences we found most meaningful. We agreed that visiting Antigua was very special because it was not a replicable experience. We can visit Antigua again as tourists, but spending time with our host families, building those relationships, and being immersed in the language and culture was a unique opportunity. I love the photo because it shows where we were living every day, rather than a single excursion. To me, it is representative of the time we spent resting and learning in Antigua. Kimi (our host family’s cat) is pictured and she reminds me of the family that was so hospitable to us, and Doña Dilia, whose empathy is unmatched. She supported us through parasites and covid, found help for me when I damaged my computer and put us first despite facing a familial tragedy of her own. It was a privilege to study in such a historical city, and I think being supported by a local family requires reflection on what it means to be a responsible and aware visitor. This program has reinforced to me that I must be conscious of my own privilege during my travels and make efforts to understand the history of the places that I visit, as well as the implications it has for modern life. Although my specific research was about water accessibility in ancient and contemporary Maya communities, I hope that, going forward, I can use what I have learned to take more of an active approach in advocating for water safety/conservation as well as equitable access in Austin.
-Joelle Kenty