Although I was very excited at the opportunity to help others and experience a different culture, things quickly changed when I arrived at my new destination. Everything was so different to where I had been before and I definitely experienced a culture shock.
I began to question myself instead of having the EIL ethos in mind. I quickly shut everything down before giving it a try. At home here in Ozumba, I usually didn’t spend any time with my new host family.
After talking to my programme director things got a lot smoother. Work now had a structure which I felt made it a lot easier. I also began to spend a lot more time with my host family. They’re super nice and so helpful with whatever I need.
I spend most of the time at my project with the kids playing soccer, teaching English, helping with food and cleaning at lunch. Watching the occasional movie, helping to move stuff, hanging out & being around the kids and really just helping out wherever I can. So far this experience has made me appreciate everything I have and how fortunate I am to be able to do certain things in life.
Outside of work The community here is huge. With playing basketball and going to the gym I’m meeting tons of new people. In addition, I became a volunteer coach at the local club, 20 minutes from my house. I also have an intercumbio whom I help with English & she helps me with Spanish.
All in all, despite it being a rough first few weeks things, no longer seem as bad as I made them out to be. I have managed to find my feet both at work & within the community. With 2 weeks left I hope to make the most of my time here by meeting new people and visiting new places.
Adios – Hasta luego.
