Case Studies Stephen Marshall Stephen Marshall Concordia University, Oregon, USA Studying in Puebla, Mexico so Stephen, why did you decide to spend a year studying abroad?0:29
Well, generally I thought it would be an adventure and a great learning opportunity to live in a totally different culture.0:50
I chose Mexico because I have been learning Spanish now for three years and I wanted to improve my language skills.0:58
What have been the best parts of your experience so far?1:06
It's very difficult to choose just a few, but one of the best things has definitely been the experience of living with a host family.1:10
Mexicans are very warm, outgoing people, and my hosts have been treating me like part of their family.1:19
During my first week, they invited their whole family for dinner to meet me and it was fun but quite overwhelming trying to answer all their questions in Spanish.1:26
I've also been learning to slow down and relax and take an afternoon siesta after a big lunch like the rest of the family.1:37
It's been fantastic living in one of Mexico's oldest cities too, with its beautiful 16th century architecture.1:46
It's a great feeling when you start to feel like you belong in a foreign place.1:53
Little things like knowing the answer when strangers ask you for directions or getting around without getting lost are so rewarding.1:58
And what about the challenging parts?2:07
Well, I've been struggling a bit to get used to the hot weather, but now I wear a hat.2:09
It was also difficult to get used to the spicy food, but now I'm really enjoying it.2:16
I still have difficulty understanding social etiquette.2:22
Last week, for example, a new Mexican friend invited me for dinner and I turned up exactly on time.2:27
My host seemed a bit surprised.2:35
I found out later that Mexicans usually turn up for an appointment at least half an hour late.2:38
What would you say to other young people considering studying abroad?2:43
Without a doubt, this has been the best experience of my life so far.2:48
I've become more self confident, patient and outgoing, and my Spanish has improved even more than I expected.2:53
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