Comparing Panama to the U.S. – Adam Bataineh

Upon returning from Panama, I was able to further understand and appreciate the unique traits found within the United States. The stark differences in architecture and weather, amongst other things, were initially jarring, but surprisingly, within only a week, I became somewhat comfortable with them. With that said, coming back home just as I began to wrap my head around Panama City immediately placed me back into that initial feeling of amazement as I just merely glanced around my surroundings. When coming to Panama City, I wasn?t sure what to expect. I had never been any further south than Houston, and little to no expectations for Central America. When first arriving in the city, however, it was clear how important commerce was to Panama, arguably being its major drive for such a large city. Seeing the skyline left me speechless. Far bigger than any in Texas and comparable to New York?s. The city was walkable yet jam-packed with cars, and the clash between old and new architecture left me reminded of Panama?s diverse history and its newly gained growth. The skyscrapers scattered across the city symbolized Panama?s financial sector, one that I was not previously familiar with, forming a Central American Wall Street. Overall, the most vital lesson I learned from this trip was how similar, seemingly completely different places were. Having the opportunity to talk to locals and see the country left me finding many commonalities. Once I was past the language barrier and initial feelings that come with being in a foreign country, it was clear that people?s values, humor, and struggles were all one and the same. Seeing the conflicts regarding gentrification, for example, within Panama?s old city, quickly reminded me of socioeconomic issues found within many of our major cities here in the United States. With that said, this trip did what it was intended to do, capturing my interest in possibly studying abroad and helping me gain insight into a different culture.