My arrival in México, with all its bumps and obstacles, did not prepare me for the feelings I had when leaving. In 6 weeks I fell in love with this country’s culture, history, language, and people. I came to feel at home and when the time came to leave, I didn’t want to. My goodbyes were tear-filled… and in my much-improved Spanish. I can only hope that I don’t lose touch with people who have become so important to me.

When I arrived back on US soil, I found the English that surrounded me annoying, it was only a sad reminder of what I had left and all the work I had in front of me to not lose the language I had worked so hard to gain. It will be more difficult to find places to speak Spanish in the states, although certainly not impossible.

Overall, I am already amazed at the insight I have gained about myself and my home country. Upon my arrival in the states I was taken aback by my newfound confidence and assertiveness. This trip has given me gifts far beyond a new language and friends, but also all the life skills and experiences that are making me a better person. I’m grateful for my time there and look forward to more adventures