Preparation; My Thoughts

For those of you who are not familiar with me here are the basics. My name is Heather Haught. I am a junior at Marietta College where I am majoring in Psychology and Spanish with minors in Leadership and Latin American Studies. I am studying abroad in Costa Rica this spring and am leaving very soon, this Sunday the 31st to be exact. As I sat down to think about what I would write, I realized that the idea of preparing myself for such an experience is an overwhelming idea and difficult to articulate.
My family experienced a great loss late this past Sunday with the passing of my great grandmother. Thus, I have barely even begun to drag out my suitcases. It is difficult to know that I am leaving as I am perhaps more home sick now than I have ever been. I have been anxious trying to balance preparation to go and the need to be available to family as they see necessary. The two are hardly compatible. Though, I have talked with my parents and will tackle the greatest part of my packing tonight and tomorrow.
Apart from this unexpected ordeal, I have other worries about leaving as I am sure most do. Though I am planning to major in spanish my background in the language is more than lacking. This will be my greatest challenge and in the end, I am sure, my greatest success. Still, issues in communication can be a major contriubutor to numerous other problems including issues within your host family, feeling a sense of belongingness (making friends, meeting people), getting lost, etc. Coupling this with issues such as missing your family and friends, and adapting to the surrounding environment (food, tradition, transportation, etc.) can make the entire situation a fearful one. Yet, the thrill of what is to be gained out shines these issues as many can be resolved with technology such as skype and keeping an open mind.
I don't believe I have ever been more excited to study in my life. I am looking forward to an environment apart from Marietta College. I just need a break. I love my school and yet there are times when I feel as though the administration is holding our hands when we no longer need them to. The first couple years you need that support because you are unsure of yourself, but we (in reference to my cohort) don't need to be led around like it is grown-up high school anymore. I am looking forward to holding myself accountable, to going somewhere bigger, somewhere different and new. I am excited for the challenge of a culture outside of my own, a language that is perhaps one of the most beautiful in the world, meeting new people who view the world in a way that I couldn't have conceived without meeting them. I need to challenge me. I want and need to grow and to learn. Oh yeah, and I want to dance. Oh, how I love to dance!
I am looking forward to sharing my experiences with you for the next 6 months and I hope that you will continue along with me.

Hugs!