GRIP, Internships Abroad How Did I Get Here?

Guatemala Health Initiative - Santiago Atitlán, Guatemala

At the wee hour of 5 am, my body jolted to the sound of my alarm going off. Although waking up early wasn't unusual, (I've had to take the 6 am lancha or boat to go to work) today was no ordinary day. We were going to summit Vulcan San Pedro. 

Towering 9908 feet, hiking this giant was not going to be an easy feat. However, with the company of my fellow peers and friends and the spectacular views, it would definitely be an experience worth every second. 

We started the day by taking a private flete, which is a mode of transportation in which people pile up on the truck bed. The crisp morning air, lush green fields, and peeking sun all served as refreshing reminders of the incredible beauty of Atitlán. Energy pulsated among our hiking group as we eagerly discussed our newest adventure. As we rode towards the entrance of the San Pedro visitor center, the volcano loomed in front of us. It was almost as if it was waiting for us, guarding the secrets that Atitlán had to offer.

Before we knew it, armed with a wooden trekking stick and fresh legs, we were ready to begin the hike. It started off quite gradually but augmented in intensity as we climbed in elevation. Although the trail was well-maintained, rocks and loose dirt served as a challenge for my chronically weak ankles. About a third of the way through, we came across a rest stop with wooden benches, a majestic overlook of the tranquil lake and its bustling lake towns, and a bungee tire swing. Tied to a tree, it swung out into arc towards the lake. It was the closest that I have gotten to Tarzan swinging through a jungle. After a brief but thrilling respite, we continued onto the peak. 

The intensity of the hike continued to heighten as we crossed into higher altitudes. My head began to feel dizzy and my heart started to beat quicker and quicker. Although it was an arduous journey, we had reached the summit in three hours. The first glimpse of the view that I caught almost stopped my heart. The sun cut through the soft, white clouds and the azure lake sparkled below. It was at that moment when the only thought running through my mind was: how did I get here? 

If there is a phrase that describes my time in Santiago Atitlán, it would be exactly that. Whether it was interviewing people with diabetes, traveling to small mountain towns, or dancing at féria, this summer was full of surprising moments, challenging times, but most importantly growth. Life has an interesting way of taking us to new places, whether it’s right in our backyards or in rural Guatemala. We just have to let it.