Future Plans

As I have mentioned before on this blog, ever since I was 14 I have dreamed of being a part of Peace Corps. Even when it came time to choose the area of my studies, I went with the option that seemed more useful in volunteering. After all, good teachers are always needed.

Recently (and by recently I mean last weekend), I was able to watch a documentary on Netflix, called "Living on a Dollar". In this diary-like film we are able to see how four university students go to Guatemala to live the experience of surviving on a dollar a day, which is sadly the reality of many areas in this South American country.

Among the many topics of this film (which I highly recommend) the viewer is able to see social aspects of this country in relation towards healthcare, diet and consumption, economy and of course, education.

The reality of many areas of Guatemala is that education can not be afforded by a lot of families. Often, young children have to choose between finishing primary school or help provide for their families and the truth is that it is usually the latter the more accessible, and in many cases, obvious choice.

Many of these places also have a lack of teachers yet the majority of the students want to learn. It is admirable seeing the disposition for the students to learn in comparison to education here in Puerto Rico. There is a significant contrast in the attitude of the learners in both countries. In Puerto Rico students go under the obligation of what society expects from them through the convictions of their parents and the great stability of the law. It is now considered illegal to not take a child to a school system. So students are in school because they have to, because that is their role in life at that time.

But in Guatemala, students want to learn because for them, knowledge is the definition of sustainability. Knowledge is not a word they toss around as an object or an idea, it is a goal and they are profusely trying to learn. That is their way of surviving.

I have loved my experience throughout my practice teaching, yet I believe I can do much more with my preparation. I can reach out to the world, and "be the change you wish to see in the world" in another stage that is not my homeland. That is why for my future plans I wish to pursue a professional life in another country and by helping people in extreme situations. I want this to be my contribution.

http://livingonone.org/