GRIP, Internships Abroad Learning from My Host Mother

Suyo - Medellín, Colombia

When I first got an internship offer in Colombia and started the GRIP self-sourced internship application process, I thought my time abroad would be a daunting experience because of the amount of independence I would have. However, my first week in Colombia has been amazing, and I have had many opportunities to interact with locals because of this independence. Because my internship was self-sourced, I did not live with other American students but found an apartment by myself in the spare room of my host, Pilar. 

Pilar has been an incredible host, and I have learned a lot about Medellín from her. As a Spanish minor, living with Pilar who only speaks Spanish has given me an incredible immersion experience I have not had before. My confidence in my speaking and listening have increased immensely in only a few days. In addition, I had the opportunity to learn many colloquial Colombian words from Pilar on my first day such as “bacano” and “Chevere”. This was really helpful as I have heard these words so many times used in conversation with other people during my first week here. I have also learned about several native foods while living with Pilar who is always excited for me to try out a new type of Colombian fruit, vegetable, or bread despite my wariness. This has made me come out of my comfort zone and try out new experiences in Medellín. 

Moreover, the fact that Pilar is in her sixties and is a painter has given me the opportunity to learn a lot about the country. She has first-hand experience about the transformations that have happened in the country since the twenty-first century such as the massive decrease in violence and innovative urban development. I have heard a lot about the history of the country and her city through my conversations mealtime conversations with her. In addition, because she is an artist, her house is full of books on Colombian and Spanish art and poetry that I have greatly enjoyed reading during my free time and have supplemented what I have studied in my Spanish courses at Penn. 

I could not have asked for a better host during my time in Colombia. Every morning, Pilar and her cat brighten my day. I encourage students who are scared to try out the self-sourced opportunity that GRIP offers to go for it! You will learn a lot from your independent, immersive experience.