During the fall 2010 semester, I will be studying abroad in Nicaragua. It is an experiential learning program where we will be learning about field research, improving our Spanish, living in homestays, and conducting independent research. We will learning about Nicaragua through the lens of 'Revolution, Transformation, and Civil Society.'

Saturday, November 13, 2010

ISP Independent Study Project

Nov 10th-Dec 10th is the period of ISP. I am currently living in rural Nicaragua outside of Matagalpa in Yasica Sur and in the community of La Grecia. I am living with a man called Vicente Padilla and his family.

Link to article about Vicente and his past nonviolent struggle for his land rights:
http://www.envio.org.ni/articulo/3355

My project is focusing on conflict resolution and the culture of peace in the context of rural coffee growing Nicaragua. It is also the coffee picking season right now in Nicaragua which means everyone is focused on this task.

Yesterday, I observed a mediation that his son, Wilmer, facilitated. It was interestin and different from my experience at home.

The place where I am living is pretty incredible. Vicente does organic farming and has several animals. I also have an actual bed/mattress even though I was expecting a wooden bed. We also have electricity, running water set up, and a tv. Vicente and his wife have 5 children. One is studying medicine in Venezuela. The youngest is an 11 year old girl who gave me a drawing my first day. She also likes to dance and I have been trying to teach her some African dance steps.
I have a feeling that I will be very sad to leave this place. But...One month left! And I am back in the States.

The ISP period has already been frustrating...after only 3 days! Research is difficult but we are finally putting into practice everything we have learned. Vamos a ver.

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