My initial impression of the RAP Panama trip left me speechless. My last visit to a Latin American country was Mexico when I was seven years old. However, I did not expect to see as many similarities as I did the first night we landed. I noticed how welcoming people are, especially learning that I was visiting for a university trip from the United States. I was immediately grateful for my Mexican roots and the ability to have conversations with the Panamanians and their excitement over meeting a Mexican American. Although in the United States, people can sometimes share that same excitement when learning about my Mexican heritage, it felt incredible when the few Panamanians I met so far seemed eager to know more about where my parents are from and actually know where Guadalajara and San Luis is in Mexico.
As someone who wants to travel as much as possible, Panama being my international visit has already been an incredible experience. Specifically staying here in Panama City has made me realize how similar cities are in various countries, the only difference here that I have noticed is the active residence life and the numerous amounts of families that spend their days together. It was refreshing to see children actually playing outside instead of staying inside their rooms like the children in the United States have become accustomed to doing in this age of the internet and social media. I hope that throughout this week I can continue to learn as much about the Panamanian culture as I can.
So far on the business experience side, I have been exposed to the history of Panama and its growth from the introduction and expansion of the Panama Canal. As of now I have had the opportunity to learn how the United States has and will continue to impact the business infrastructure in Panama, especially with its accessible economy since its currency is also the US dollar. I am excited to continue going on company visits and further learn about the importance of the Panama Canal and its relations with other countries, especially with the United States.
