For my first study abroad, I did not know what to expect. Because it was service-learning project, I at least knew I will be making some impact in an individual community. More details were off course provided before we left for the trip.
Our group arrived in Panajachel on May 18th, 2019. Next day, we shopped around in Chichicastenango (Chichi) market. I expected chichi to be a simple, open top market of few acres. To my surprise, Chichi was huge, colorful, and had a roof. The market definitely brought back some childhood memories. As a child, I, like any other child, loved going to the market every Sunday with my dad. The market was very similar to the one in Chichi but had no roofing. The bargaining, fruits and vegetables and market layout though was very similar. We also had a delicious and the best lunch of our trip that day. It was a buffet with choices more than one could ask for. Chicken, Pork, Beef, veggies, sweets, and off course Guacamole were some of the foods offered.
On Monday, we prepared for rest of the week. We met preschool teachers from Pena Blanca and Tierra Linda Preschools to prepare for the stem project. We also learned to install cookstoves, tested some water and interviewed few locals.
Rest of the week went by quickly and as planned. Our usual day started with cold shower, breakfast across the road and hitting the road everyday by around Nine. My personal favorites were the stem projects, the food, and feeding the elderly. These are some of the things that will always remain in my mind.
It was always fun to start our day with the kids at one of the schools. They always made me forget my tiredness or laziness and made me happy. I have heard and even seen on Facebook about children in developing countries being happy while not having enough to eat but seeing it in front of my eyes made me realize happiness is not about the materials we have, but how much we appreciate them.
Feeding the elderly gave a sense of pride in being able to make an impact on their lives. Not significant but still an impact. It also did however make me want to do more and think what we have done is not enough for them.
Before we left for the trip, I was a bit concerned about the food. I am a bit picky on foods and not very used to of eating different foods. However, I was never disappointed. It was like they knew what kind of food I am hoping to eat. Even when we did not have an option to choose, the food was always delicious.
This trip made a few positive impacts on my life. I will always think about the kids and the elderly before I waste my money on something I don’t need. I am also starting to appreciate what I have more, and I try to be happy regardless of the situation just like Miguel suggested.
Thank you Adithya and Rachel for leading this trip. Thank you for answering our questions and for pushing us to learn and do more. You guys made a difference in each of our lives. Thank you!! Have fun and good luck for the 2nd and 3rd year of the project.