Aero: Patricia Wallace – Costa Rica 2013 – My Expectations
Aero: Patricia Wallace – Costa Rica 2013 – My Expectations
Aero: Patricia Wallace – Costa Rica 2013 – My Expectations
Tricia Wallace
In order to consider what life might be like in Costa Rica, I find myself reflecting on how I experience life in the United States. Each day is filled with places to be, meetings to attend, and endless work to do. As a college student, I feel constantly connected to some type of technological device. Keeping very busy is certainly a large part of the American culture. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to compare and contrast my culture to the cultures in Costa Rica.
Although it is naive of me, I think of a tropical wonderland and a great sun tan when I think of Costa Rica. However, I do realize that this foreign country is built upon much more than that. I anticipate on learning many different aspects of the Costa Rican culture. My concern is that I will be limited in my education due to my lack of experienced with the Spanish language. I want to be able to grasp and understand the world around me as we explore new places each day. I expect that some instances will be harder than others such as buying items at a market. When comparing bartering for knock-off purses in NYC and trying to make a deal in Costa Rica, I feel like I will be lost without the English language.
I have many curious questions and thoughts about Costa Rica that I hope I can answer after this excursion. I wonder if their culture is just as dependent on technology and social networking as Americans are. Will we see every individual glued to their smart phone or will the atmosphere be more laid back? I can speculate that Costa Rican’s have a more relaxed view on life compared to the busy American culture. Furthermore, I am curious about the effects of Costa Rica being a very small country. I wonder if the cities are crowded with many buildings and people or if everyone knows each other just like the small town I grew up in.
There are numerous things I am looking forward to on this study abroad trip. I am excited to meet and learn from my host family. I wonder how similar their family dynamics will be to my own. Although my Spanish is limited, I still hope to be able to share stories and interact with one another. Additionally, I cannot wait to try the variety of food in Costa Rica. I am that person that sits down with a full plate in the cafeteria and everyone gives me that “what in the world are you eating” look. Trying new things is my specialty, so bring on the fruits, veggies, seafood, rice, and beans.
I imagine that these 16 days spent in Costa Rica will help me develop into a well-rounded individual. My camera is ready, my journal is packed and I am anxious to dive in and experience Costa Rica head on. It is certainly quite the way to kick off 2013!
– Patricia Wallace
The LEAF Project
www.leaflanguages.org
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