There is nothing in this world that compares to studying abroad. There are so many things that happen when you’re traveling that no one else understands. One of my favorite things about being on this trip was the relationships I made with everyone. The people of Negril, GreatShapes! Superkids, and even the other fellow SPC students were so welcoming. I feel like I have made life long connections with everyone.

While in the school it was amazing to see how the students opened up to us so quickly. That even after just a week we felt like we had known these students for years and even the other fellow teachers on the trip. We all bonded so quickly for the common good of the students and the schools we were in. It was amazing to see all of these teaching ideas we all came up with come together to make exciting interactive lessons.

The schools were so welcoming and excited to have us, that their excitement and energy is what kept us going. There were times that I felt the sweat running down my back and I was so tired, but because of the students and their excitement to learn, I never skipped a beat. I loved working with the students in small groups and getting to know each student and hear their life stories.

The children here in America are so lucky to have the things they do, like transportation to and from school. I wish there was a way I could truly bring this experience to my students and help them feel this sense of excitement for learning and to experience the elements these students are in every day. American students have technology, A/C, nice desk, and a quite environment. Jamaican students are less privileged, they don’t have A/C or technology and they learn in an environment that is so loud you can barely hear yourself think. Even in this condition, these students are able to learn and build relationships with each other. It’s amazing some of the things they can do and overcome. The team members from GreatShapes! were also so dedicated to bringing these students better education. They opened their arms right up to us and immediately helped us learn the ropes. I will forever be grateful for this organization and SPC for having me on this study abroad trip and I will never forget the relationships I built with the students and my fellow teachers.