Before studying abroad, you are told to expect culture shock. It is an inevitable part of traveling. As I settled into my first two weeks in Colombia, I found that adapting to a new culture has two faces: disorientation and wonderment.
First, disorientation. The average daily temperature in Barranquilla, Colombia, is 90 degrees Fahrenheit, yet most houses only have air conditioning in their bedrooms. Furthermore, jeans are highly fashionable. Every day, I am coated in sweat as I watch the locals walk around in tight jeans, completely unbothered by the heat. Locals are also much touchier. It is not uncommon for a greeting with an acquaintance to involve a hug and a kiss in the air by the cheek. For me, one of the most difficult parts of the adjustment has been the stares. My pale skin and light hair immediately make me stand out as foreign to all locals. In public, it feels like people are always staring at me. It is difficult not to feel like a fish out of water when you do not look right, sound right, or understand the cultural norms.
Despite all these aspects of culture shock, I have been greatly enjoying my time abroad! But how? I find wonder by focusing on small elements of the culture that do not overwhelm me. For example, in addition to campus squirrels, the Unidad del Norte campus is home to iguanas and cats. I always cheer up when I see. I think of how amazing it is to be taking classes with iguanas right outside my door. Enjoying the little differences makes adapting to the big ones so much easier. The food is super different, but I can enjoy how fresh the fruit tastes. It is impossible to avoid culture shock, but a few gatos y iguanas have certainly helped me feel better.
