While I do believe in trying your best to be happy and grateful despite the circumstances, I also think we need to be honest with ourselves and accept all of our emotions. Next time I’m in a situation that unexpectedly affects me like that, I’ll trust that my negative feelings will pass and I'll try to remain grateful for the opportunity.
And pass they did! As soon as classes started and I saw how everyday life would be, I knew I was where I belonged. I knew that despite what little international and Spanish speaking experience I had, I would be just fine. This is because people here are so friendly and patient. They never make me feel insecure if I’m struggling with my Spanish, even if I have to ask them to repeat something 15 times!
I have also gotten to know my roommates better now and found that we actually have a lot in common. I live in an apartment with two other Americans: James and Joseph. Joseph is from Louisiana and James is actually from the same state as me, North Carolina. Another cool fact is that James is here doing this program for the second time! He liked it so much, he came back. It works out for me because he taught me how to use the bus system and the best places to eat on campus. He has been able to help us with a lot of things since he's familiar with Cali.
Something else that has helped me integrate is joining activities on campus. We are in the salsa capital of the world and everybody asks foreigners like me, “Have you learned how to dance salsa yet?” I joined a salsa class that meets twice a week. I also joined two volunteer groups that have activities every Saturday. One is to teach English to high school students and the other is working with elementary school students from vulnerable neighborhoods here in Cali.
