Beginning in Nicaragua

My name is Karissa Willette and since graduating from CSBSJU last May, I have now officially been living in Nicaragua for over 2 months. There has been so much to love about my experience thus far. Each new experience has been incredibly impactful to my overall journey. From trying new foods and drinks to being able to form meaningful connections with the teachers and students at both schools, there is simply so much to love. I lived with a host family for the first three weeks I was here. That opportunity allowed me to be introduced to many incredible Nicaraguan foods. This was also my first time living with a host family, so it was really exciting to be able to experience what it is like. During this time, I was taking Spanish classes at a local school. I had not taken a Spanish course since my senior year of high school so it was super helpful to be able to refresh my skills and make significant improvements in my Spanish speaking abilities.

After the three weeks with the host family, I moved into the volunteer house and began working full time at both the schools alongside the other volunteers. We volunteer at Escuela Emprendedora (grades 7th-11th) and Centro Educativo Cristiano Granada (grades K3-6th). Each volunteer has a slightly different schedule. Personally, I am at Centro on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and I am at Emprendadora on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Being able to attend both schools throughout each week has been incredibly impactful when it comes to forming connections with both the students and the teachers. The early mornings have been a bit of a struggle getting used to, along with the heat. However, as each new day comes and goes everything gets a little bit easier. 

My favorite part of my journey so far has been being able to form so many new relationships with not only the teachers and students, but also the other volunteers. We are able to take the school bus to and from school every day, this has allowed us to connect even more with the students and teachers. I appreciate that we are given this opportunity to take the school bus as it allows us to see various parts of both Granada and the surrounding towns. I have also loved being able to travel to another part of the world. Prior to this trip I had never been to Central America before so this trip has unlocked a whole new horizon for me. I am looking forward to being able to explore even more of Nicaragua and Central America. We have a trip booked for the nearby beach town, San Juan Del Sur, this upcoming weekend, and we are planning a trip to Costa Rica next month. 

Recently, at Emprendedora, they have begun preparing for their independence day parade. The students are allowed to participate in various ways such as through dances, marching, and performing with the band. I am fortunate enough to be allowed to perform in one of the dances called Folkorico, or Folklore. This opportunity has been super impactful for me as it has allowed me to witness and understand a huge part of Nicaraguan culture. 

I am beyond excited to see what the rest of my time in Nicaragua holds for me and the other volunteers! I hope to make a lasting impact on both the students and the program.