Mi Familia Anfitriona

Maya Grant ’13 is a Theater major and HSSP minor.  This summer, she studied abroad in Santiago, Dominican Republic.

Maya at the statue of Christopher Columbus in Santo Domingo

As this week comes to an end I only have a couple of more days left to spend with my host family. Over the past seven weeks they have been the best “Familia Anfitriona” that I could ever ask for. Moments such as blessing the food at lunch, playing with Carol and her tons of princess dolls (thanks to my mom and aunt), or going out with my brothers have all been such a beautiful experience. There is so much love within this family, and from the first day I arrived they have done nothing but share that love with me.

My birthday party was a typical house party with food, music, and great conversation. I think my parents were surprised at how easily I picked up the movement of Merengue and Bachata. They asked me where I learned the dance and I told them that besides dancing with my friends, I just have rhythm. Last night I asked my parents if I could see family photos and Ms. diva “Carol” brings out three different family albums. I got to see pictures of great grandparents, Miguel’s swimming competition, first’s communions, and first’s birthdays.

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Mi cumpleaños con mi familia anfitriona (My birthday with my host family)

Before studying abroad many students told me their doubts about staying with a host family, and I must admit I was very nervous about that aspect of my experience. However after living with the Collados I have no doubt that host families are the perfect way to experience a new culture.