At times I missed my parents or the comfort of my own home and country, but it has been nice to explore the Argentina in person.
I also got over the fear of asking for help, especially after my phone broke. I will continue to cherish my friendships with Argentines and other international students. I have enjoyed going to restaurants and spending time just talking with friends. I have learned a great deal from Argentine culture, especially the emphasis on family, many families eat together every night which I think varies from household to household in the States. Argentines also take advantage of their parks and green spaces. I will attempt to eat more with my family and venture out to more green spaces when I return to the States.
I am a bit sad that I will leave during the World Cup, but I am lucky to have experienced what it is like to watch a game in Argentina. When Argentina is playing, almost no one is in the street. You will even see police officers and restaurant workers watching the game on their phones or televisions. It really is a sight to behold. I will also miss includes the efficient Argentine public transportation system and the number of varied stores on every block. As someone who does not enjoy driving, Buenos Aires felt like a dream.
I will miss so many people, even from my smallest interactions. For instance, I go to the same kiosk (mini convenience store booth) two or three times a week, and I have developed a friendship with the workers there and it was hard to say goodbye. I was lucky to be involved with IES study abroad program where the staff treated all students like family, even having a Thanksgiving dinner for students from the United States.
