The time finally came when we had to leave Cuernavaca–with mixed feelings. The last month has flown by and I was so fortunate to have a great group of students. This was the first time I had ever directed a study abroad program and I couldn’t have handpicked a better group of students. Each and every one of you had your own story to share and all of you enriched my life in some way, both professionally and personally. At the beginning of the program, some of you spoke only a few words of Spanish but as time went by, I saw you develop your speaking skills at a superhuman rate and gain a sense of confidence that was unprecedented. In my final meetings with the administrators and professors at the institute, they complimented me for having brought a group of students who were motivated, open to experiencing a new culture, and very eager to learn. I take my hat off to all of you who participated in program and congratulate you on your achievements. Thank you for making this one of the most positive experiences of my life. I hope you can say the same.
I dedicate this one last entry to the following people whom I will always remember fondly:
Diana: I am so proud that you stuck to it in spite of everything that was going on at home. I was very worried at first, but was thrilled when everything worked out. You owe your sister a night out on the town. Very few people have your strength and determination.
Gerald: Your inquisitive nature about language and linguistics kept all your professors on their toes. You’re a real pleasure to have in class. What language will you tackle next? Hold on to Ida, she’s a great person to have!
Shawn: You get the award for the most improvement in Spanish. Don’t just take my word for it, talk to your professors at the institute! They were amazed, too!
Michelle: Your smile and sense of humor made every day brighter. As Dorothy said in the Wizard of Oz, “Scarecrow, I think I will miss you the most!” Sorry your trip home wasn’t the most pleasant one. I was glad to be there to help! Cuídate, from “Chime I”. (pronounced “chee-may”)
Celina: “Hey, has anyone seen my cellphone???? Wait a gosh darn minute! –¿Dónde está la pila de mi teléfono?” Can’t wait till the next party at the institute. ¿Margaritas, anyone?
Ida: To the future president of Norway! Thank you for our long talks in the courtyard of the institute.
Tiffany: You came to remember how important “mamá” can be! “If momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy!” You have a great smile, don’t lose it along the way!
Kelyn: Thanks for helping out and being my “right-hand woman” on our bus trip to the airport! I couldn’t have done it without you!
Lucy and Amanda: You two are so lucky to have each other as friends. I now know the true meaning of “cuates”. Good friends are hard to come by. What a great support system!
Samantha: “Good-night, sleep tight, don’t let the chinches bite!”
Mateo: Remember us when you get your prime-time comedy show and are rolling in the dough. Jerry Seinfeld has nothing over you!
Citlali: To the only student in the group who could NOT have a change of family! I’m so glad you got to learn more about your cultural heritage.
Jessica: You receive the award for being the person who had the most calming effect in the group. You’re level-headed and approached every problem with a “we can solve it” attitude…no need to get upset. Are you and Sherry polar opposites?
Sherry: From one Type-A personality to another, don’t lose that bag I gave you! Thank you for having an open mind and letting someone else take the wheel. I know it was hard to understand why things happen the way they do in other cultures, but you learned to roll with the punches. From now on, I will always affectionately think of you as “Cassius Clay, número 2″. Hey, anyone want to go to the “Caca Inn” in Acapulco?
One last thought: I hope Matt’s email titled, “People you will never talk to again” is not prophetic. Let’s hope that the friendships you made will be long-lasting. I wish each and every one of you the best of luck. If you’re ever on campus, or simply want to talk, you all know how to get in touch with me.
Un fuerte abrazo,
Su profesor.
P.S. Feel free to add comments!
well I think that should be a lesson to him not to put his hands where they don’t belong! Overall, It was a good experience that I will take with me. Though there are just a few things I might do differently, for which I will, naturally, provide you a detailed list.
PS, with your carefree attitude and “it’s a good day to be alive” perspective, I really don’t think there’s any way on this earth that you’re a type A. ha ha ha
Oi vey! (How embarrassing! I hate that you guys saw me ill.) I wish I wasn’t under the weather at the end because I had loads to share… BELIEVE me!
Dr. E- thanks for being my wet nurse…I mean, “enfermero chime “…ji ji ji.
Hey guys I hope all of you got home safe and sound. I felt so happy to be able to spend time with each and every one of you. It was an enrichment experience to interact with everyone. Thank you very much for a great time and a good learning experience about the Mexican culture. Dr. Elliot, I’m glad that you are our director because you helped us in all the crazy things, requested and mistakes you always be there like a good friend, please never change. I thank you very much. I love every one and hope to see all of you in the school. I will send the pictures a.s.a.p.