I have known for just over a month that I will be spending my sophomore year of college in the wonderful city of Mendoza, Argentina. I am beyond excited that I have a second chance to live and explore abroad. I will be studying through the program IFSA Butler. I will live with a host family and have the choice of attending two universities. I will be completing many of my Spanish requirements, starting to learn Portuguese, and complete the regional requirements for my Global Studies major.
Unlike my experience in Denmark, I was given full choice in my destination. I have always been drawn to Latin American culture and Argentina has continuously peaked my interest. I chose Mendoza because I don't feel that I need to be in the capital, or even a large city, to have a good time. I actually prefer smaller cities because I feel like I get to know the city better. I also chose Mendoza because of the mountains. Having seen mountains only a handful of times, living next to them for a year is beyond exciting. Relating this to my Biogeography class, I will also get to experience what is called rainshadow or disruptions in weather due to mountain ranges. While I'm not sure why this has any significance to me, it has been ringing through my head since I learned about the concept.
Yesterday I declared as a Global Studies major in preparation for Argentina. Essentially, I was in the office for ten minutes, I learned that all of my classes, as long as their not language classes, will count towards my major and I declared. Pretty simple, right? In comparison, going to the Spanish Portuguese office was a hassle. They have so many more requirements but I have a meeting with them in a few weeks to declare SpanPort and go over classes. I hope next time it will be easier. Regardless, their office is just another step in my adventure and I am willing to do anything as long as I can go.
I am currently awaiting the return of my FBI background check, which should get here in the next five weeks. After that is returned to me, I have to send it off to Washington DC to get an apostille (whatever that means) which will take another three weeks! When that finally is returned, I can start applying for my visa. I think it is absolutely ridiculous that the American paper work that I have to do will take longer than the paperwork I have to do for Argentina.
I will be in Argentina by July 28th. Only 117 days to go!
Argentina nos vemos pronto. Besos.
