Pre-Evaluation

1.) How are some of your beliefs and attitudes regarding appearance, food, and social practices potentially ethnocentric?


Some of my attitudes regarding appearance when it comes to potentially being ethnocentric, may be the fact that I probably dress much differently than the locals in Ecuador.  I like to wear athletic apparel like leggings, and t-shirts.  When it comes to food, American food is much different than what Ecuadorians are accustomed to.  They have many varieties of fruits and meats that I have never seen or had the opportunity to try. Guinea pig may be unusual for me, but I am definitely willing to try this type of meat, and I am also open to trying anything else that comes my way while in Ecuador. Social practices that I might not be used to would be the closeness of people during greetings and introductions. I usually am not a very touchy person, especially with people I am unfamiliar with. This may be something I will have to get used to, and I will be open to the different perspectives of these cultural beliefs.

2.) What are some stereotypes you have heard/seen about Latin-Americans?


Stereotypes that I have heard or seen would include very personal relations, colorful lifestyles and fashion, large families, and that all Ecuadorians love and play soccer.

3.) What are some stereotypes you think Latin Americans might have about your culture?


Stereotypes that Latin-Americans might have about our culture, is that Americans are selfish or rude, that we eat a lot, or that we are not open to trying new things.

4.) What challenges do you anticipate encountering in Ecuador?


Challenges that I anticipate encountering in Ecuador would include actually conversing with the locals. I feel that I have a decent understanding of the Spanish language, but when it comes to actually speaking, I have trouble with this. It may be challenging not to judge the food and particular traditions right away, but I will most definitely work on this during my experience.

5.) What rewards do you hope to gain?


Rewards that I anticipate to gain during this trip, would include: Accepting and experiencing a new culture/their ways; learning and becoming a more fluent speaker, while better understanding the Spanish language; influential encounters with locals and children that are memorable, while meeting new friends and people; trying new foods and items that I enjoy.

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