OUMAYAB- The Ohio University Spanish Abroad Program

When thinking about Mexico, a few stereotypes come to mind about the country and the Mexican people who live there. I have heard that you should never drink the water and that the country is not the cleanest place. I have always thought that Mexico is not a safe place and that fugitives escape there to hide. I think the Mexican people are nice and welcoming. However, the Mexican men may not hesitate to hit on American women and may come off as jerks with rude comments.

I have many expectations for my trip to Mérida, Mexico this Winter Quarter. First and foremost, I want to improve my Spanish speaking skills. I expect to embrace the new culture I will be a part of for ten weeks and learn as much as I possibly can from the people within it. My goal is to meet new people and create friendships that will last a lifetime.