Day Four

My fourth day in Costa Rica has gone by quickly. We (nine students, professor, and TA) started the day with a hike around two craters then toured a coffee plantation where we also had lunch. Then we returned to the hotel that we had been staying at since Tuesday. After a brief introductory presentation, we met our host families and moved into their houses where we will stay for most of our time in Costa Rica.

So far I have met my host mother, her son, and her sons twins (her grandchildren). I met her husband a few days ago in passing but he has a long shift today (he is a chef) so I will meet him more officially tomorrow. 

Conversing with my host mother has been intimidating even though she has assured me that my Spanish is good.  I'm becoming increasingly aware of the limitations of 'classroom' language acquisition. You don't have to ask a worksheet to repeat what it just said or maintain a coherent conversation with a textbook. And you only have to think in Spanish for an hour or two. Here, we will have about 3 hours in the classroom Monday through Friday and the rest of the day is intended for learning by living (spending time with host families and exploring Costa Rica).

Despite my insecurity, I feel blessed to be able to participate in Wheaton in Costa Rica and I know that my confidence and Spanish skills will improve. Please pray for safety/health of all the students and their host families as well as confidence, patience, and perseverance.

Karis