A Day to Remember

The arrival day was nothing short of exciting. As the students landed at the airport, the anticipation was palpable. Our staff was ready and waiting, armed with delicious artisanal chocolate bars, colorful welcome signs, and cheerful balloons. The moment we spotted our dear students coming through the arrivals gate, our hearts were filled with joy and high expectations.

Each student was greeted with a warm smile and a chocolate bar, a sweet introduction to the hospitality they would experience throughout their stay. The welcome signs and balloons added to the festive atmosphere, creating a sense of celebration and camaraderie from the very start.

As we gathered together, the excitement was contagious. Conversations flowed easily, with students sharing their travel experiences and their eagerness for the journey ahead. The initial nervousness quickly melted away, replaced by a sense of belonging and community.

With everyone accounted for, we headed to our transportation, ready to embark on the next phase of our adventure. The ride to our destination was filled with laughter, stories, and the buzz of anticipation. Each student's face reflected the same sentiment, this definitely was the beginning of something special.

Monday morning marked the beginning of an exciting journey, filled with joy and high expectations. Our day started bright and early as we headed to Centro Cultural Dominico Americano (CCDA) for our orientation. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy as we introduced ourselves and engaged in ice-breaker games. These activities helped us get to know each other better and set a positive tone for the rest of the program.

After a brief break, we indulged in some delicious Appetizers or picaderas and refreshing juice. It was a delightful treat and a perfect way to recharge. With our spirits high, we continued with our introduction session, where we shared our backgrounds and aspirations.

Following the morning session, students were driven to their host families for their first lunch experience. It was a wonderful opportunity to bond with their hosts and get a taste of the local cuisine. The hospitality and warmth we’re sure they received is truly heartwarming.

In the afternoon, we regrouped at CCDA for the Spanish placement test. This was followed by a comprehensive discussion about the program. We delved into the details of public health, the upcoming activities, and the significance of our work. The Q&A and comment session was particularly engaging, as it allowed us to express our expectations and get to know our peers better.

Our next adventure took us to the city, specifically Calle Del Sol, is a well-known and vibrant street in Santiago, Dominican Republic. It's a bustling thoroughfare that serves as a central hub for shopping, dining, and cultural activities. Overall, Calle del Sol is a must-visit destination in Santiago, offering a unique blend of commerce, culture, and community.

There, we savored some delicious empanadas and refreshing coconut water. The vibrant street life and local flavors added a unique touch to our experience. Needing a few essentials and snacks, we headed to La Sirena Supermarket, where we stocked up on goodies.

The highlight of the day was our welcome dinner at "El Tablon Restaurant." The evening was filled with laughter, delicious food, and great company. We enjoyed a variety of beverages and desserts that left a lasting impression. The beautiful photos we took and the quality time we spent with our peers made this a day to remember.

As we reflect on our first day, it's clear that we have embarked on a memorable journey. The connections we've made, the experiences we've shared, and the excitement for what's to come are just the beginning. This day set the stage for an incredible adventure, and we can't wait to see what the future holds.

Dear students we couldn't be happier to have you. Here's to a start filled with joy, excitement, and high expectations for the amazing journey ahead! :)

Stay tuned!!!