I’ve been to Mexico once in my life. I was ten, and the only thing I remember was a man jumping on our Taxi trying to clean the windshield with a spray bottle full of Sprite. This doesn’t leave a very good impression. When I think of Mexico, I think of beautiful beaches and margaritas. I want this to change. From my blurred experience to my picturesque characterization, my expectation for Mérida falls somewhere in-between. However I am afraid. Honestly, I am worried about the people and I fear because I am American. I know this is silly, but with US propaganda I can’t help but think anything else.
We talk about “los tiburones” in our weekly meetings. This does not help my stereotype of Mexican men. I hope I meet a few that can change my perspective. I know the people will be hospitable, that is their lifestyle. However, I am afraid to walk alone, even in daylight. It shouldn’t be like this. I know to be cautious, but I should not have a fear of being there. I hope this trip breaks my stereotypes and proves to me the Mexican society has been misjudged.
To study abroad is the goal of many students, and I’ve heard nothing but good about the experience. This is what I want and expect from Mérida. I expect Mérida to be beautiful, full of culture and gorgeous architecture. I’ve always been fascinated with Spanish structures. Despite my expectations of the city, which are pretty vague, I expect a lot from myself. I need to learn the language. I have been studying Spanish since eighth grade and need that push in my speaking. I expect (and hope) the majority of my day to be in Spanish. I also want to immerse myself in the culture. When I return, I want to know enough about the food, the dances, the colors, even the smells of Mérida enough so I could maybe someday incorporate it into one of my lesson. I expect myself to be dedicated to the language, and I expect this experience to teach me. I want to come back changed, to have a better knowledge of my passion and myself. I expect Mérida to be a place of discovery.