Oh the joys of orientation.

How am I going to catch up on sleep in the city that never sleeps?! It's only been two days and I am totally exhausted! Yesterday I got to start the day by waking up at 5:45 (4:45 my time) to head to the airport. Unfortunately, my peanut butter didn't make it through security, but I was able to meet some of the other students from my program in line. The 9 hour flight went smoothly and the highlight was definitely flying over the Andes and watching the sunset. When I finally got off the plane, stiff as a board, I made it through customs just fine, but had a slight panic attack when the belt stopped moving at baggage claim and I still hadn't gotten my bag. Everyone else seemed ready to go with twice the amount of luggage I had and I was starting to question my packing... but less is more, right? And even more of a reason to go shopping! Luckily my big duffle was off in some corner somewhere and we were finally able to meet the IFSA staff. One by one they sent us off into a taxi to bring us to our houses for the next 5 months to meet our families. After about a 30 minute ride from the airport, filled with anticipation, I was warmly greeted by my host mom who was very welcoming and patient with my struggling spanish skills. I couldn't ask for a sweeter host mom!

Mi cuarto

This morning my host mom took me to orientation and we got there by bus (colectivo) which took about 45 minutes. This cold weather is definitely a change from the nice summer sun at home, but I will take this winter over a Minnesota winter any day. So far, in my program of 130 students, I have met some really cool people from all over; it is crazy all the small connections you can make! We spent the whole day learning lots of information about safety, transportation, etc. and it was all taught in spanish. Basically they reiterated everything that we should be worried about. It is definitely a lot to take in after not having spoken or thought about spanish in a few months. Thankfully, I was able to stick with the other girls living in my neighborhood to find the way back to the bus stop and home. Having the subway stop literally outside of my door will be very convenient, and save me from having to deal with the complicated bus system. When I finally got back home around 7:30, I enjoyed a delicious dinner of soup, chicken, and potatoes, and continued conversing in spanish with my host mom. Man does my brain hurt! I am definitely ready for a good night sleep to prepare for another spanish filled day exploring this busy city!