I still can’t wrap my mind around that fact that I am
spending my summer working in Guatemala!
I am currently a summer intern volunteer, working with six other summer
volunteers, and four program directors.
One of my first significant experiences was at the school in Central,
Chaquijyá, on my first day on the job. As I was waiting outside to teach my first art class, a group of 5 year
old students swarmed me and the other volunteers while smiling, laughing, and
chanting “Gringo, Gringo,” a term meaning “white people.” The children immediately hugged
all the volunteers and engaged us into playful activities. The kids were beyond excited to see all of us at
their school and they could not have given us a warmer welcome.
Kathryn, Cheryl, and Nicole after art class |
My
favorite experience, thus far, is from our weekend trip to Santa Cruz. The trip was an enjoyable treat that
allowed the vols to relax after an eventful week working in Chaquijyá. Our hostel was a tourist spot located
right on the lake and was a “hippie” paradise. We spent most of our day relaxing in a secluded area that
contained swings, hammocks, and couches.
After the tranquil day, we were able to finish off the night with a hike
and a hot tub soak. During our
trip, I could not help but think that although this paradise was located only
40 minutes away from Chaquijyá, the lifestyles are so different that the two
locations may as well have been millions of miles away.
Relaxing area at Isla Verde |
I
have already learned so much from being here in Guatemala. Not only has my Spanish improved,
but more importantly I better appreciate
simple luxuries offered in the states, such as constant access to filtered
water. I am excited for what I
still have to learn and experience in the next two and half weeks, but I know
that even though Guatemala is so different from home, I will not want to leave
this place.
- Jackie
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