I came to Panama to accomplish a research goal. But, as with all my travels, the people I met made Panama special. I made friends from all over the world: Germany, Guatemala, Spain, France, Colombia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Honduras, Canada, Venezuela, and so many others. My Panamanian friends taught me about their food, dance, music, celebrations, and traditions and made each day more special than the last. Every conversation I had in Spanish with them made my language skills soar. Nelson Mandela said: “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” This is why learning another language is so important. It can help you connect with people and learn about their culture and their lives in a very special way.
In my nine months in Panama, I have also learned a lot about myself. This is something that commonly happens when you travel to a new country. It is because when you are far away from familiar things like your friends, your family, your home, your school, etc., you are forced to understand the kind of person you are without them and what is important to you. In Panama and Latin America, the pace of work is a little bit slower. There is less stress about work and school than we have in the U.S. Living in Panama has taught me to worry less and love more. Being here for only a short time has taught me to cherish and love every moment and everybody.
Panama will always have a special place in my heart and am I so excited for the day I get to come back. I have loved sharing my journey with all of you and hope you have enjoyed it as well. Before I go, I want to give you some advice. First (and I know everybody tells you this), study hard.
