I took Spanish lessons at Orbita 3.5 years ago, after it was suggested that I should consider doing my research in Guatemala. My experience in San Pedro La Laguna showed me what my dissertation could become, if I could get at least some Spanglish down.
I was finally able to return in March for data collection. My 5 week trip was cut to 1 week. It is safe to say I didn’t get a lot of data collected, and I won’t graduate by December. However, I met a handful of amazing people on this trip who changed my dissertation for the better. I cannot wait to see them, in person, again.
I wish I didn’t have to leave Guatemala so soon, or go through the Miami airport on the day the borders were closing. I returned to the US likely acquiring COVID in travel and slept the rest of March and most of April. I’ve been ‘awake’ for two weeks now and there is certainly a lot of problems that need creative solutions.
Good things and good health come to those who wait. For now, I’ll start by taking lessons online.
https://orbitaspanishschool.com/
Emily Oertling 