Through the many stereotypes we embrace everyday, we limit our ability to make up our minds regarding others and the behaviors they ensue. It is almost impossible to live stereotype-free due to the restraints and education we receive in an American society. Regarding the trip to Merida, Mexico I embrace various stereotypes, which are not all negative. One stereotype I hold about Mexicans is that they’re sketchy. By saying this I refer to the scandalous behavior and shifty attitudes many Mexicans represent in movies. Another is that I believe Mexicans are not frugal with money. A positive stereotype I partake in is the belief that Mexicans all eat spicy food. I love spicy food. Although there are probably many more stereotypes about Mexicans, these are the main ones that I believe.
In preparing for our trip to Merida, Mexico I have various expectations and hopes of them getting fulfilled. Primarily, I expect to become accustom and perhaps an expert at the distinctions between our two vast cultures as I wish to utilize this knowledge in my future profession as a cross-cultural psychologist. Furthermore, I expect to learn how to prepare traditional Mexican-style dishes, as I’ve always been curious about foreign foods. In addition, I would also like to create new friendships, both with the other students attending the trip and with locals. These are my main expectations regarding the trip.