Going to Panama has been one of the best experiences for me individually as a person in terms of growth, exposure, and development. Enjoying every moment taking it in and learning as much as I can was my goal for the trip. Unfortunately, the trip wasn’t forever but memories are and one of the best was giving back to one of the low-income schools with our time. Going in I knew this would mean a lot to the children more than I could imagine but little did I know it really impacted me. The kids were ages 10 to teenagers who have never seen much more than just their community which was filled with bad influence and less than. Yet they welcomed me with open arms, big smiles, and an abundance of positive energy. A lot of the time we find ourselves complaining or in spaces of ungratefulness for things we should be more than grateful for which was humbling. Growing up giving back in the form of money was really the only appraised way I knew but being there interacting, playing, and talking with the kids actually felt much more fulfilling for me personally and is much more memorable for the kids, especially the younger ones. At first, I was really nervous and shy to speak not knowing how they were going to accept or how to even approach the language barrier, but quickly noticed that was the least of worries. After a brief conversation with a small table of kids, we were able to head out and play soccer with boys which was extremely fun and refreshing. It was a game that was simply just fun but a different way to actually connect with them. After losing a couple of games but laughing about it I headed over to talk to the little girls who were so excited to speak with me. Feeling my hair, rushing with questions, dancing around me I could do nothing else but give as much love as possible. As they admired my bracelet I handed it off quickly to the girls where they proudly rejoiced. Time passed quickly and before I knew I was giving the biggest hugs to all the kids hoping to pour as much love, assurance, and confidence into each one. Holding back as many tears when getting back on the bus I knew moments like that were bigger than me but moments like that define my why and betterment as a person. I still, cherish it today as I am back in the States making it my mission to go back into my community and to schools and give as much time as needed to let them know they are seen and loved. Still feeling a mild wind of culture shock I am super blessed and grateful and have been raving for everyone to study abroad. The best advice I would give to future study abroad students is to live in the moment because time doesn’t stop and moments don’t last forever.
