After two tiring plane rides, I have arrived in Chile, ready for my South American adventure to begin. I landed in Santiago early in the morning and despite a thick blanket of fog, I was able to catch a glimpse of the magnificent Andes mountains bordering the large city. A truly breathtaking vista.
Cleared the passport check and customs with no problems, picked up my luggage, exited the airport and was then greeted by a distant relative of mine and her 11-year-old son. An interesting story of my family’s lineage, as when my great-grandfather immigrated from Italy to the United States through Ellis Island in the early 1900’s, his cousin who made the long journey with him, was not allowed in the country and as a result, settled in Chile. Although I have never met my relative, Francesca, it was wonderful to be greeted by a warm embrace.
This connection was a small part of the reason why I chose Chile as a study abroad location. I have always been fascinated with the story of my Italian ancestors and their unique paths and as such, when I began thinking about my time abroad and where I would like to go, naturally, my brain pointed me in this direction.
From the onset, I had always wanted to go to a Spanish-speaking nation. I had taken Spanish classes in school from kindergarten through high school, but couldn’t quite master the language in the way that only comes from being fully immersed in it. This desire to learn the language, my unique connection to the country, as well as Viña del Mar’s location on the coast, were the driving factors in me choosing to study abroad here.
I have several goals that I hope to achieve through my study abroad experience in Viña del Mar. First, I hope to better my Spanish language skills and comfortability with speaking the language. I will accomplish this through the in depth immersion through my homestay family as well as through daily interactions with students, professors, and others I encounter. I will not be afraid to use my Spanish, although it may be daunting, and will practice it at any chance I get. Additionally, a goal of mine is to gain a thorough understanding of Chilean culture. This goal will be achieved by exploring different areas in Chile, trying new things, and forming relationships with both my homestay family and students at the university. Lastly, an objective of mine for my study abroad experience is to create a meaningful dialogue with others, whether they be students at Northeastern or otherwise, and to share my experience and all that I will have learned.
In terms of fears and apprehensions I really have few. I am thrilled to be here and to be immersed in a culture very different from my own. I do not see this as a frightening thing but as something that fills me with excitement. I am eager for the challenge of learning a new language and adjusting to life here. I look forward to exploring all that the country has to offer and getting the most out of every experience.
Let the adventure begin!
