Student Spotlight: Solana, Spanish Immersion Student

Here at Na’atik we love to hear about immersion student’s experiences and impressions of Felipe Carrillo Puerto. This month we sat down with Solana, who has spent several weeks with us this spring working on improving her Spanish and understanding of Mexican culture.

Why did you decide to learn Spanish?

I wanted to learn Spanish because my family roots come from Mexico and my grandparents speak Spanish, so I’ve grown up surrounded by Spanish but never learned to speak it fluently. Also, because it’s such a useful skill to have and a way to connect with more people.

Why did you decide to do an immersion program?

I love to travel and experience new cultures; I find immersive experiences the best way to do that. An immersion program allows you to experience what life is actually like and become a part of a community and increases cultural literacy. It’s also the most helpful when learning a language because you have no choice but to practice, since you constantly hear, speak and learn the language in authentic everyday contexts and experience it in an environment that a little more natural than a classroom.

Why Mexico and why Na’atik?

I chose Mexico because that where my familial roots are, and I have lived abroad in other Spanish speaking countries like Spain, Argentina and Paraguay, so Mexico offered a new experience. I choose Na’atik because I liked the fact that Carrillo was a little more out of the way and not as well-known as other cities. Since there is less tourism here not many people speak English and if they do speak English its very limited, so it really forces you to practice your speaking and comprehension skills. I also loved the fact that Na’atik is a nonprofit and works to bring opportunities to the children of Carrillo by providing them with English classes and extracurricular activities.  

How have you found staying in Carrillo?

It’s been great, a huge change of pace from my everyday life. It’s a really quiet little town but I’ve really enjoyed it and using my bici to get around. I have also really enjoyed spending the weekends exploring the region and other surrounding cities like Valladolid and Bacalar. Carrillo is really in a great location.

What has been the most difficult part of your classes?

Remembering to do my homework everyday although to be fair that’s never been my strong suit!

The best part?

My prof, Cesar, he keeps the classes interesting, and we always get sidetracked on different topics. I’ve been able to learn so much about a variety of different things and it keeps me more engaged than a regular classroom setting.

How has the homestay experience been?

The absolute best, I adore my homestay family they are unparalleled. They’re so sweet and go above and beyond to make me feel comfortable and included as a part of their family I love experiencing daily like with them like taking the kids to and from school, grocery shopping, going to fútbol games, dance performances. We go on adventures to local cenotes and they’re always teaching me new recipes, taking me to family events and to meet friends and encouraging me to try everything. It’s truly the best part of this immersive program.

What do you think about the regional food?

I love the food its always exciting to be exposed to new ingredients and my host mom is the best cook!

Have you found speaking with people in town easy?

I’ve found that people are really nice when you speak with them and they will take the time to speak with you, but you have to make the initial effort to get them involved in conversation, don’t be shy just go for it because they won’t be the ones to initiate the conversation.

Next steps in your Spanish language journey?

I would like to continue building on the momentum that I’ve gained while in Carrillo, I think I’ll probably take some online classes with Na’atik and plan a trip to travel the rest of Mexico and other Spanish speaking countries to put my language skills to the test.

What would you say to someone who was considering coming to study at Na’atik?

 Honestly, look no further because Na’atik is it! I have done quite a few immersion programs and Na’atik is by far the best! From start to finish the staff are dedicated to making sure you have an unrivaled experience. From the first message you send inquiring about the program they are responsive and efficient; they consider every aspect of your trip and the attention to even the most minuscule detail is reflected in your experience. During your program they are always available for any and all questions or even just to have a chat with, all the teachers and staff are welcoming and easy to talk with.  The classes are small and intimate, and you truly get focused lessons that are adaptable to your level of proficiency and that challenge you to improve every day. Additionally, the town is quaint and untouched by tourism which allows you the unique opportunity to actually be fully immersed, an experience that is becoming scarce. Lastly, words can’t describe how amazing the host families are, the time and dedication that they put into welcoming you into their family and their patience and willingness to communicate with you is incomparable. You won’t regret your decision to come study at Na’atik and when you’re here fully commit, don’t be embarrassed or shy to talk even if you make a ton of mistakes because it really is a judgement free place.

Thank you, Solana, for taking the time to speak with us and for choosing to be part of the Na’atik family. It has been a pleasure to have you here. We hope to welcome you back to Carrillo again soon!

The best way to experience Mexican culture is by spending time with local families away from tourist resorts. Na’atik offers a unique nonprofit language immersion program, where your Spanish or Maya lessons are augmented by a homestay experience in the town of Felipe Carrillo Puerto. Sharing meals and spare time with local and Indigenous people makes this a not to be missed opportunity to see the authentic Mexico. Every visit helps us to provide life changing educational opportunities to local children. Visit our immersion page or contact us on say@naatikmexico.org to find out more.