Study Abroad

Study Abroad
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5245 USA
(269) 387-5890

I Miss Ecuador :(

Posted by Cassidy Eastman on
August 5, 2019
Image

Cassidy Eastman
Speech Language Pathology and Audiology
Quito, Ecuador, Summer II 2019

 

A group of male and female students in front of a historical statue on top of a hill in Quito.

Over the past few weeks, I have had plenty of time to reflect and reminisce about my time in Ecuador, yet I am still at a loss for words. I have been to many family gatherings where everyone is asking me how it went, and all I can seem to tell them is that it was amazing. It’s hard to put my experience into words, but I truly had the best time of my life. I learned so much about not only the culture and the language, but also about myself. Before the trip, I never imagined myself doing anything to this extent. I was so nervous to travel by myself and to be in a different country alone for almost two months. But looking back, I can truly say that I was thriving the whole time I was there. I am so thankful to my family and friends who pushed me to go on this trip. Through all of my doubts and fears they managed to convince me that I would enjoy it and benefit greatly from it. And like always, they were right.

A female student standing on a hill with a view of the Quito city's buildings

My biggest piece of advice I can think to give is to live in the moment. Try to take advantage of every day and limit your down time. I found that the best way to beat the homesickness was to get out of the house and keep yourself busy exploring somewhere new. Also, talk to local people! The best and easiest way to learn a new language is by speaking it in real life situations. If you are unsure of something to do or a restaurant to eat at, ask someone and they will give you great, local advice! Everyone I talked to was so kind and willing to help. Don’t be afraid of messing up some words or the conjugation of a verb, they are just happy that you are trying to learn. Most people are very understanding and willing to correct you in a good way. If you are willing to say yes to adventure and trying new things then you will have the best time of your life like I did.

Categories: South America, Ecuador, Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, Advice, Comfort zone, Communication, Cultural differences, Homecoming, Stereotypes, Summer II.