Journal 1: Who am I?
With help of the diagram from our reading in the Maximizing Study Abroad book I feel that it has help identify myself and allow for further examination in how I may interact with my soon to be host country. The fact that I am studying abroad in a country I was born in is a bit intimidating. I do identify myself as “Tica” but I feel in doing so I may offend others that still live in Costa Rica. For example, I am too “white” when I do travel and visit family there but on the other hand when I am here I am noticeably “darker” than others here. In the explanation of the diagram it says, “the various roles that we play in life have an impact on our identity…” (page 45). I believe that my study abroad experience will be unique as visiting and having lived in the country will shape me differently.
Another bubble that I filled as with “Sister”. I believe that this is significant because as I leave my family here I will still follow the unassigned role of leadership I have upheld as an older sister. I am caring, and love to help others so I know that I will focus greatly on others on my trip. On the other hand, I know that being away from my family will swade me to take more precautions on my adventures. By this I mean, I will be sure to call them throughout the week and check in as I normally do when I am home. I realize that that may negatively impact my interact with my host country.
Another significant role I play is “worker”. I currently work two jobs and almost never miss a day of work. Putting myself through school financially has caused a lot of stress throughout the school year. While in Costa Rica I know I will be expected to attend classes and later in the program take part in an internship. I am very excited to focus and experience as much as I can while there rather than focusing on work as I have been doing.
Most significantly, my role as “ girlfriend” will be difficult. I am sure many people in relationships have studied abroad but I feel that no one can say it is easy. While missing my family I am going to be missing my boyfriend too. Being away from anyone can be hard but I believe that specifically this role will be difficult transfering to my host country. As the book explains, “… there are times when being independent is going to come first” (page 47). I have to study abroad not only for my degree at North Central but I also feel that it will give me a greater understanding and independence that I may have not gotten without leaving.
Most importantly, I am not abandoning these roles I play when leaving a adjusting to my host country. I am simply transferring or fixing them to help me in a different situation.
Toes in the Water, Tica in the Sand 