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The process of getting settled in Ecuador

 

“I can’t believe it, I’m finally here; my dream has become a reality.” That was the first thing I thought as I got off the plan from Miami. Honestly I didn’t know what I was in for, but I soon found out. Quito, the capital of Ecuador, was a lot like the U.S, except taxis are much cheaper and the malls are really expensive. My first two weeks in Quito were a struggle. I was trying my best to communicate and integrate into my host family. I also was trying to learn Spanish, which seemed impossible. I soon got sick, which made it even harder to get settled in. Quito and I weren’t getting along, and there didn’t seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel.

Then I found out I was going to be in the Amazon Region for most of my time in Ecuador and a glimmer begun to show.  I wanted this so badly and couldn’t wait to visit for a week. After my long trip, I made it to the Amazon and meet my host family. My dad and mom are young and nice. I have a 3 year old brother who is moody, but when he likes you it’s the best feeling. My Apprenticeship at the daycare was fun, but very hard. I found myself growing close to the kids and even closer to my two little cousins who always smile and reach out to give me a high five when I’m in sight. As the week quickly comes to and end, I find myself sad and crying because I didn’t want to leave. I wanted to stay with these new little friends I made and live happily ever after. The bus ride back to Quito was not only depressing, it was literally sickening. I found that the further I got from Muyana and the closer I got to Quito, I was getting more and more sick. Once I finally got to Quito, I felt weak and quickly went to my room. For three days I felt really sad and homesick.

My friends were so caring and invited me out for dancing. At first I resented, but then I gave in. I had lots fun dancing and it made me hopeful, optimistic about what the future held. Finally I’m enjoying myself!” I thought. The next two weeks in Quito were a breeze and just as soon as I started to get use to living in Quito, it was time to go back to Muyana. I had mixed feelings about this. But I just tried my best to be optimistic and prepare myself for what lies ahead. I’m ready to make a difference and make my stay in Muyana the best it could possibly be!

Kimberly Reed-Hyman

About Kimberly Reed-Hyman


Kimberly is most proud of receiving buildOn's Global Citizen Impact award for her region. She is passionate about making sure children all have an equal opportunity to get the education they deserve, and she even spent two weeks in Malawi, Africa, helping to build the foundation for a school.

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