Final Thoughts

It has been nearly a week since I left Rosario headed for the States. My travel took me from Rosario, through Buenos Aires, on to DC, and finally to Houston. Only yesterday I returned to Maryville College and started what seems to be a two day move-in for my Senior year. Already I've had friends ask me about my stay in Argentina, and already it has been difficult to give more than a superficial answer that in no way truly characterizes my feelings.

In the end it boils down to this: I loved living in Rosario. I made many great friends and became comfortable with the city. Long conversation, meals for hours, and late nights out with friends all of which I enjoyed. What I wouldn't give now not to feel rushed at a restaurant to order, eat, and get out! I want the inattentive waiter, the meal that takes to long to cook, several refills of beer or wine, and café at the end with a little bit of soda to wash it down with. In Argentina I found people that were more friendly with me after a few minutes than some people I've know for years in the States. And, I must honestly say that I feel more close to the friends I made there in two months than most of the friends I have have here.

Not to be too cliché, but it was in many ways an overwhelming experience. Of course, comparisons have to be made between the U.S. and Argentina. There are many difficult things about Argentina: the government, low pay and high prices, the government, corruption and a lack of ethical thinking, and the government. But perhaps these are things that can be considered and changed, or at least worked around. There is no other place I have visited to which I would rather return more than Rosario. I can't wait for my next Argentine Adventure!

Chau.