May 16th, 2018 - Marie Drake


Today marks the middle of my experience in Peru, the middle of the biggest cultural immersion I’ve ever had, the middle of something life changing. Thus far, I have been nothing less than impressed. Today was a more relaxed day, but very challenging personally. The morning classes were very informational, and the discussions pushed me and everyone in the group to think critically and be accepting of others’ opinions, something I really appreciated as intellectual, deep discussions are something I crave. I find it easiest to understand someone by having intellectual conversations because if you can see the way someone thinks, it helps me to see why they think that way. I do value personal talks very much, especially intellectual personal talks. I feel like I understand several people in this group much better in just one hour of a conversation like that.

The rest of the day was relaxed for me, I had a lot going on as far as a blog post to write, a journal post and an Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) debrief with one of our instructors, Ronnell. Although it was not packed full of activities with other students, it was a very significant day for me. The IDI discussion I had lasted hours and was extremely eye opening. I learned things about myself that I never would have realized if it were not for these talks. It takes a certain amount of bravery to not only open up to someone but to be real with yourself about your thoughts and making yourself into the person you truly want to be. I thought I was on the right road to growing into someone better – and I am – but I now know from having this discussion not only that there is a better way to go but I now I have a sense of how to get to where I want to be. I realize that it is a constant process and you are never truly finished growing, at least you shouldn’t be. So, I truly valued the talks I’ve been blessed to have and the people that are willing and truly enjoy getting to know me. I only hope to be half as good intentioned as the people who mentor me. I’m finding inspiration to be better in those around me, instructors and students alike. Overall, today put my whole life in to perspective in a way I didn’t even know was possible, and to be able to do so in an amazing country is something I only could have dreamed of.
Fantastic tiramisu from Cafe Basilica.


Tonight's "wine night" or "vino noche" shenanigans!

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