As I celebrate exactly one month since my journey in Peru began, I reflect on some of the experiences and observations that I have made to date:
1. Volunteering has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time here. Every Thursday afternoon, I go to "Corazones en Acción" where I help feed lunches to kids and help them complete homework. I spend my time with the younger kids, who constantly ask me how to say certain words in English. I also joined my roommate Jenna on one of the monthly activities that she plans in order to teach English to school-age children. Eight kids attended the event. All of them were eager to help me with Spanish. "Gorra" was one of the words that they taught me. It refers to a baseball cap.
2. Peruvians graduate from high school at an early age. When I mentioned that I was 21 years old in my oceanography class, the other students gasped. Most of them were 17 or 18.
3. You never know where you will make a friend. One afternoon, my American friend Sam and I walked through a small neighborhood near our school. We stopped on the sidewalk for a moment when a shop worker overheard our speaking English. He immediate struck up a conversation, wanting to practice his English-speaking skills. He bought us soda and we stayed for over an hour talking to the man and another store worker. When we left, they considered us friends. They gave Sam their contact information, wanting to get together in the future.
4. English is everywhere. Many Peruvians that I've met can speak basic English (at the very least). One of my friends studied English at an institute for multiple years while he was growing up. Even movies at the theater are in English with Spanish subtitles.
Tomorrow at 5:30 a.m. I leave for Cusco and Machu Picchu with my study abroad group. I have classes off for the next 2 days since it is Holy Week. I am so excited!
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
El Fútbol
Below is an article that I wrote for The Marcolian about my experience abroad. Check out this story and others at http://marcolianonline.com/.
Now that I have watched a soccer game with my Peruvian friends, I can say that I have officially been amerced into the Peruvian culture.
On March 22, Peru faced its longstanding rival Chile in a game that would determine which team was still in contention for competing at the World Cup. In the days preceding this game, Peruvians spoke proudly of their country’s team, despite its losing record to Chile. Not a single Peruvian even considered losing as an option for this game.
On game day, red and white apparel donned countless individuals and many of the students at my university were talking about their extravagant plans for the game. Having a ticket to the game was envied.
I joined one of my friends for a small party in his home to watch the game. Observing the animated reactions of my Peruvian friends during the game was more entertaining than the actual game. The house would erupt into deafening screams and shouts whenever either team seemed close to making a goal.
Until the last 6 minutes of the game, neither team had scored a point; and, when Peru finally kicked the ball into the goal, every single person in the room jumped from his seat. Everyone embraced each other and ran hysterically around the room with tears in his eyes. Peru won the game.
A friend who actually attended the game confessed to his crying after Peru’s victory, and he was not the only one. Rambunctious, lively fans lined the streets of Miraflores. They were climbing on top of buses and passionately chanting the victory of their team.
In addition to this memorable night, I have experienced the Peruvian culture many diverse ways. Visiting Iquitos, the beautiful fountains in downtown Lima, and countless different beaches help amerce me into the Latin-American lifestyle. Needless to say, my upcoming trip to Machu Pichu is highly anticipated.
The longer I stay in Lima, the more I love the culture.
Now that I have watched a soccer game with my Peruvian friends, I can say that I have officially been amerced into the Peruvian culture.
On March 22, Peru faced its longstanding rival Chile in a game that would determine which team was still in contention for competing at the World Cup. In the days preceding this game, Peruvians spoke proudly of their country’s team, despite its losing record to Chile. Not a single Peruvian even considered losing as an option for this game.
On game day, red and white apparel donned countless individuals and many of the students at my university were talking about their extravagant plans for the game. Having a ticket to the game was envied.
I joined one of my friends for a small party in his home to watch the game. Observing the animated reactions of my Peruvian friends during the game was more entertaining than the actual game. The house would erupt into deafening screams and shouts whenever either team seemed close to making a goal.
Until the last 6 minutes of the game, neither team had scored a point; and, when Peru finally kicked the ball into the goal, every single person in the room jumped from his seat. Everyone embraced each other and ran hysterically around the room with tears in his eyes. Peru won the game.
A friend who actually attended the game confessed to his crying after Peru’s victory, and he was not the only one. Rambunctious, lively fans lined the streets of Miraflores. They were climbing on top of buses and passionately chanting the victory of their team.
In addition to this memorable night, I have experienced the Peruvian culture many diverse ways. Visiting Iquitos, the beautiful fountains in downtown Lima, and countless different beaches help amerce me into the Latin-American lifestyle. Needless to say, my upcoming trip to Machu Pichu is highly anticipated.
The longer I stay in Lima, the more I love the culture.
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Living the Peruvian Life
My time in Peru has already surpassed two weeks; and, mastering the basics of public transportation is one of my proudest accomplishments to date. As I become more familiar with life here, I am learning--and doing--more and more.
Serving in this community is something that I have been eager to do. I volunteered with Hearts in Action on Thursday. A family connection led me to this organization where I will volunteer once or twice a week. Kim, one of the organization's leaders, gave me a tour of the facility; and, after completing volunteer paperwork, I proceeded to help with my first project! I helped sort toys for a giveaway and prepare craft materials for a character-building lesson. In addition to assisting with these randoms tasks, I will be tutoring students, too!
One of my biggest observation in Lima is that family connections are invaluable. When I explained to my Peruvian friend Paloma some of the difficulties I was having in scheduling my classes, she immediately referred me to her second cousin Jorge who works in the international office. While Jorge was unable to help my situation, he apologized profusely, saying how he would have done anything within his power to help a friend of his cousin.
Since the opportunities for submerging myself into this culture are plenty and my time is quite occupied, homesickness has yet to be an issue. While I miss my family, I cannot dwell on these feelings too much, or I will lose the moment here and now. My first feeling of nostalgia for my American home came on Thursday when a Peruvian friend and I went to a movie. Since the movie was in English with Spanish subtitles, I was able to understanding the context of the movie without thinking about it. This inexplicably made me reminiscent of my home.
I have exactly 122 days remaining in Lima; and, while that may seem like an abundance of time, I know I will be in America again soon. I am so grateful for this opportunity and the support of my family and friends around the world as I capitalize on this experience!
Serving in this community is something that I have been eager to do. I volunteered with Hearts in Action on Thursday. A family connection led me to this organization where I will volunteer once or twice a week. Kim, one of the organization's leaders, gave me a tour of the facility; and, after completing volunteer paperwork, I proceeded to help with my first project! I helped sort toys for a giveaway and prepare craft materials for a character-building lesson. In addition to assisting with these randoms tasks, I will be tutoring students, too!
One of my biggest observation in Lima is that family connections are invaluable. When I explained to my Peruvian friend Paloma some of the difficulties I was having in scheduling my classes, she immediately referred me to her second cousin Jorge who works in the international office. While Jorge was unable to help my situation, he apologized profusely, saying how he would have done anything within his power to help a friend of his cousin.
Since the opportunities for submerging myself into this culture are plenty and my time is quite occupied, homesickness has yet to be an issue. While I miss my family, I cannot dwell on these feelings too much, or I will lose the moment here and now. My first feeling of nostalgia for my American home came on Thursday when a Peruvian friend and I went to a movie. Since the movie was in English with Spanish subtitles, I was able to understanding the context of the movie without thinking about it. This inexplicably made me reminiscent of my home.
I have exactly 122 days remaining in Lima; and, while that may seem like an abundance of time, I know I will be in America again soon. I am so grateful for this opportunity and the support of my family and friends around the world as I capitalize on this experience!
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Escapades in Lima
Classes begin today!
I received my schedule at 9 a.m. this morning, two hours before my first class. Until this morning, I was not certain of what classes I would be taking. Receiving my schedule so close to the start of classes is another example of "Peruvian time."
My classes include intermediate Spanish, political science, psychology of communication, and oceanography. I have classes six days a week, too. Despite how laid back this culture can be, classes are very strict. The attendance policy is taken very seriously and students cannot have food or beverages in the class. Classmates are from Peru, Belgium, Korea, France, the Netherlands, the United States, and more.
Yesterday, my peers and I visited Circuito Magico del Agua in Lima. It was gorgeous...and we were able to run through some of the fountains!
When strolling through the streets of Lima, seeing American influences in the culture is easy. KFC, Domino's Pizza, and McDonalds are not uncommon, as are teens wearing Aeropostale and Hollister. I often hear American pop music playing from different shops.
Hasta luego!
I received my schedule at 9 a.m. this morning, two hours before my first class. Until this morning, I was not certain of what classes I would be taking. Receiving my schedule so close to the start of classes is another example of "Peruvian time."
My classes include intermediate Spanish, political science, psychology of communication, and oceanography. I have classes six days a week, too. Despite how laid back this culture can be, classes are very strict. The attendance policy is taken very seriously and students cannot have food or beverages in the class. Classmates are from Peru, Belgium, Korea, France, the Netherlands, the United States, and more.
Yesterday, my peers and I visited Circuito Magico del Agua in Lima. It was gorgeous...and we were able to run through some of the fountains!
When strolling through the streets of Lima, seeing American influences in the culture is easy. KFC, Domino's Pizza, and McDonalds are not uncommon, as are teens wearing Aeropostale and Hollister. I often hear American pop music playing from different shops.
Hasta luego!
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Adventures in the Amazon!
Here's a sneak peak into my weekend visit to Iquitos, a city only accessible via boat or plane. Mosquitoes, bats, piranhas, and humid temperatures didn't hinder me from exploring the Amazon. I am excited to share all about this experience later this week. Classes begin tomorrow!
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| A village girl from San Jorge |
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| A sunrise on the Amazon |
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| A critter in the jungle. |
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| This raft transports plantains to Iquitos from small towns along the river. It's a five day journey. |
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| El mono |
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Time
Below is an article I have written for The Marcolian about my biggest observation in Peru! Check out this story and others at http://marcolianonline.com/
Perhaps the biggest difference between Peru and America is how the people consider time. Time in Peru is much more relaxed and free-flowing. Rather than concerning myself with what I must accomplish throughout the day, I’m learning to embrace my time in a more organic, carefree way. Living in the moment and seeking the presence of the people you love is most important.
For most circumstance here, arriving up to two hours late is acceptable. I am adjusting to “Peruvian time” well, and appreciate the extra cushion of time as I still learn to travel on the bus. On my first time traveling from my home in San Borja to the study-abroad office, I arrived nearly twenty minutes late according to the schedule. When I arrived, I began apologizing to our group leader for being late. While I was anxious about my tardiness, she considered nothing of my being late.
Above all, time is best spent in the company of others…and food. Lunch is not about eating a meal, but bringing together our family. Plates are piled high, especially during lunch. While seafood and meat are quite popular in Peru, my host mother Carmela takes extra care to ensure that the house is stocked with plenty of vegetarian options. When Carmela noticed that I enjoyed eating yogurt for breakfast, she proceeded to buy several additional flavors of yogurt and more granola for me to eat with it. My favorite foods are the fruits, like mangos and a hybrid of an apple and plantain. These fruits make the richest, flavorful juices I have ever tasted.
As my time in Peru continues, I feel as though I have been here much longer than I really have. I was instantly embraced by my Peruvian family and friends, as well as the other students at the university; and, while I am still getting acclimated to the culture and making my way through the city, I know I will become more familiar with and passionate about this country as the days continue. For only 139 I am here, I need to make the most of every second.
Perhaps the biggest difference between Peru and America is how the people consider time. Time in Peru is much more relaxed and free-flowing. Rather than concerning myself with what I must accomplish throughout the day, I’m learning to embrace my time in a more organic, carefree way. Living in the moment and seeking the presence of the people you love is most important.
For most circumstance here, arriving up to two hours late is acceptable. I am adjusting to “Peruvian time” well, and appreciate the extra cushion of time as I still learn to travel on the bus. On my first time traveling from my home in San Borja to the study-abroad office, I arrived nearly twenty minutes late according to the schedule. When I arrived, I began apologizing to our group leader for being late. While I was anxious about my tardiness, she considered nothing of my being late.
Above all, time is best spent in the company of others…and food. Lunch is not about eating a meal, but bringing together our family. Plates are piled high, especially during lunch. While seafood and meat are quite popular in Peru, my host mother Carmela takes extra care to ensure that the house is stocked with plenty of vegetarian options. When Carmela noticed that I enjoyed eating yogurt for breakfast, she proceeded to buy several additional flavors of yogurt and more granola for me to eat with it. My favorite foods are the fruits, like mangos and a hybrid of an apple and plantain. These fruits make the richest, flavorful juices I have ever tasted.
As my time in Peru continues, I feel as though I have been here much longer than I really have. I was instantly embraced by my Peruvian family and friends, as well as the other students at the university; and, while I am still getting acclimated to the culture and making my way through the city, I know I will become more familiar with and passionate about this country as the days continue. For only 139 I am here, I need to make the most of every second.
Sunday, March 3, 2013
I'm Here!
Rumor has it that I am living with one of the best host families in Lima…and
I absolutely believe it. When I arrived at my new home at 2 a.m. on Friday, I
was greeted with energy, lots of kisses, and fresh flowers decorating my room.
From the moment I entered the door, I was completely embraced into their home (which includes Carmela, her
husband, her mother, her son, and her daughter-in-law). When I told Carmela how much I loved her beautiful home, she replied that it is now my
home, too.
All of the Peruvians I have met so far are patient and accepting of my Spanish-speaking skills. Luckily, animated hand gestures and lively facial expressions help me understand the gist of most conversations. My new favorite Spanish phrase is "Que linda," or "How cute!"
San Borja is a lovely, health-conscious neighborhood. Jenna and I walked through the park yesterday, which includes an outside gym and offers dance lessons. Also, anyone who lives in San Borja can register to rent free bicycles for 45 minutes every day.
Lima is developing, and very diverse. I've already met people from Holland and South Korea, in addition to Peru!
Today was beach day! Our family, Tyra, and Jenna all soaked in the rays. I loved it.
Classes start a week from tomorrow. Until then, I will continue with program orientation, and prepare for a trip to Iquitos--the Amazon--later in the week!
All of the Peruvians I have met so far are patient and accepting of my Spanish-speaking skills. Luckily, animated hand gestures and lively facial expressions help me understand the gist of most conversations. My new favorite Spanish phrase is "Que linda," or "How cute!"
San Borja is a lovely, health-conscious neighborhood. Jenna and I walked through the park yesterday, which includes an outside gym and offers dance lessons. Also, anyone who lives in San Borja can register to rent free bicycles for 45 minutes every day.
Lima is developing, and very diverse. I've already met people from Holland and South Korea, in addition to Peru!
Today was beach day! Our family, Tyra, and Jenna all soaked in the rays. I loved it.
Classes start a week from tomorrow. Until then, I will continue with program orientation, and prepare for a trip to Iquitos--the Amazon--later in the week!
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