Janelle Braunwart: Service Learning in Guayaquil, Ecuador
One of my main goals in studying abroad was to get to know 'el pueblo' of Ecuador - the people. The program I went abroad with, International Partnership for Service Learning, gave me the opportunity to do just that, and in the process it did something even more important. It helped me see the world in a different light and to see myself more clearly.
Coming back to the States, I was a different person than when I left in August. I was more mature, more aware of reality, but also more wary of the world and unsure of what to do next. I had some amazing experiences in Ecuador. I walked in the Amazon and the Galapagos Islands and saw the ruins of the Inca Empire. I made life long friends and helped a family at the shelter where I was working. I also had some very trying experiences. I felt powerless to help another family at the shelter. At home and at my volunteer placement I disagreed with people culturally, politically and ideologically. I've realized though, that every aspect of my experience in Ecuador helped me grow into the person I am today. I now know myself better, and am stronger for it. Ecuador opened my mind's eye to the diversity of thought, attitudes, and ways of life that exist in our world. It gave me my first look into the reality of poverty and challenged me to take action and not just talk theory. These are all tools I carry with me and use in my life today.
So, is this what I thought I'd find in Ecuador? No, not really. But I'm glad it's what awaited me there. I've found that when people ask me "how was your study abroad?" I can tell them that it was a good experience, and I'd never change it for anything.
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