If you can Belize it, you can achieve it!

When we boarded our second flight that would take us into Belize I was filled with anxiety. I’d never been out of the country or away from my family for such a long period of time (only eight days). I knew this would be a great experience, but I couldn’t shake my nervous feelings. I thought being in a different country would be a life-changing adventure and it was – in the best ways. 

During our trip to Belize we spent a large amount of our time in Hopkins Village and Belize City with a short stop in Belmopan. We were given the opportunity to learn about many different cultures including the Garifuna, Mayan, and Creole (Kriol) Cultures. We participated in drumming and cooking lessons and even got to spend a day at the Mayan King Waterfalls (which are breathtaking).  The food in Belize was wonderful and being surrounded by nature and the Caribbean Sea was a nice break from busy life back home.

If I absolutely had to pick an experience that was most meaningful to me, it would be creating relationships with the children at Holy Family R.C. School in Hopkins. The children and teachers there were so warm and welcoming to us. I spent time with students who told me their dreams, which included becoming teachers, scientists, and so much more. In Belize I saw a much different sense of genuine happiness and kindness than I do in the United States. Although our country is privileged with more resources, there is no comparison to the joy that I saw in those children. 

I am glad that this opportunity was presented to me and that my first trip out of the country was on a study abroad trip. I now know that there isn’t anything that I can’t do – the sky is the limit! I can’t begin to thank the Belizean community for welcoming us with open arms during our time. This is an experience that I will never forget… I know I’ll be back someday!