That is me, Lori Worchester, on the right in the pic.

When I enrolled in Mexican Ecology and Culture, I knew I was going to Mexico over Spring Break, but it didn't actually hit me until the day before we left. I was so excited, and I am the type that loves to do and see new things. 

Our class left as individuals, each expecting our own goals out of this trip. We didn't know one another, nor did we have any incentive when we left Oklahoma, but we were as one when we returned.

We spent our first days and nights in a tight secluded space together, and we got along great. I thought it was so weird how we took care of each other without even really knowing each other at the start.

When we arrived at Bustamante Canyon, whatever tension that might have been there, immediately disappeared. The canyon was magnificent. It was secluded and peaceful. A lot of my pre-occupied problems were lessening the longer we were in Mexico.

On our first night at Matenchen, I had already met many new friends. I figured that the language barrier would be a problem, but it only united us more, with two different customs and languages combining. I understood the general message they would try to relay and they understood me the same. Many spoke English very well, and that was also a helpful asset.

Camping on the beach was the most peaceful experience I have ever known. You could look out the window of our spacious tent and see the stars. Stars that were like perfect diamonds. You can't see them in a town like mine. You can see the stars, but the lights from the town cancels their brightness out. When you close your eyes, you could hear the constant peaceful sounds of the ocean waves rolling calmly on the beautiful sandy shores.

We spent our days discovering more of Mexico. Their wildlife: fish, reptiles, and birds. Along with our new local friends we met and spent our remaining time with.

We left Mexico with a special bond. We know and care about one another. I personally left everything seemed so simple and made everyday back at home obsolete. Like many of the problems I left in Oklahoma, I could come back to and realize they're not that big of a deal.

I met many people and many life long friends. They write me, and I write them. It was the best trip. I have ever been on and I definitely plan on going back. I hope the class is offered again. It is easy to learn through hands on experience, and enjoyment. If you have fun learning, you don't just remember the information, you apply it!!!

-Lori Worchester