January 24 , 2006 - page 2

My adjustment to American culture has been interesting.  I had to re-acclimate myself to prices, driving a car, and hearing English all the time.  I often found myself looking at a price as if it was in pesos, or saying con permiso (“excuse me”) as I passed someone in a crowd.  Sometimes I feel like I’m going through Spanish withdrawal and the need to hear the language as often as I did, and so Spanish television, radio, and the occasional Spanish-speaking family I encounter all bring a smile to my face.

I cherish every moment of my study abroad experience and recognize them as steps on the road of my personal development.  My outlook on life has been broadened culturally, politically, religiously, musically, culinarily… and, I’m sure, in several other ways.  My playlists are no longer limited to top-40 hits, 80s pop, and classic rock – they now include favorites by Reik, Elefante, Shakira, Kumbia Kings, Juanes, Daddy Yankee, and other reggaeton artists.  My food preferences have of course expanded.  Rice makes a great addition to any meal, and you can eat just about anything with a tortilla.  Recently, I went grocery-shopping with my mom and I was excited to note Meijer’s international foods aisle –