Expectations

     I know that there are big things that I am open minded about, but I think it is small details that I take for granted, or that I assume “everybody does” that are the roots of my ethnocentric beliefs.

     Some stereotypes that I think I know include: Latin-Americans have an extreme emphasis on family, Latin-Americans are generally poorer, Latin-Americans make a lot of food at home instead of going out and eat most meals with a large family.

     I’m not sure what stereotypes they might have about me, but if I had to guess, maybe they would think of an American as very outgoing and friendly, but also somewhat ignorant of foreign cultures and practices.

     I believe that the language will be, by far, the greatest challenge I am going to encounter. Trying to communicate will probably be rather difficult, especially if my host family does not know English well. I know that the other major challenge I will face will be the food. I admit that I am a bit of a picky eater, so being adventurous enough to try new foods will have to be a deliberate effort.

      I hope to gain a greater understanding of Ecuadorian culture, as well as a better grasp of Spanish. I’m also hoping that I can just gain the experience that would make me more comfortable with foreign travel and more enthusiastic to travel in the future.