Ecuador & Galapagos Summer Program | Pacific Discovery

Why did you pick this program?

Tobi: Originally, I had my heart set on Pacific Discovery's New Zealand program. The volunteer portion was heavy on environmental conservation, which was my first love/major. I had to reconsider my choice when I was notified that the program might not be going. I ended up picking the Ecuador and Galapagos program, which matched my second love/major: anthropology.

I'm pretty sure that any anthropology major would die if they had the chance to visit the Galapagos to see where Charles Darwin did a lot of his work. The volunteer portion also focused on working with people and for people which matches my third and current love/major: nursing. Yeah, I know. I've change majors a lot. The Ecuador and Galapagos program was a better fit for my interests and I was beyond happy with my choice.

What was the hardest part about going abroad?

Tobi: Trying not to over pack and failing. I love being prepared, so naturally, I wanted to pack everything. In reality, I could've made it with the bare minimum (regarding clothes). In the end, you'll just want whatever is comfortable and whatever gets the job done. Versatile clothes are amazing and eliminate need. It's also a pain to lug all that stuff around. You don't need a lot of variety because no one is even thinking about fashion. I know we must've been looking like a mess, but I can't even recall a single outfit any of my group members wore, so don't sweat it.

What's your favorite story to tell about your time abroad?

Tobi: Way too many stories, but here are a few short ones. 1) While we were in the village, the family's sow gave birth. So we woke up to a bunch of piglets. They were so soft and fuzzy and warm and cute! 2) Being in Ecuador while they were playing in the World Cup was amazing. We'd always try to find a TV when a game was on. Some of us even bought jerseys. 3) The whole group got upgraded to first class when flying into the islands. 4) We spent the 4th of July at a bar on the beach slack lining, playing volleyball, drinking, and playing with a puppy.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Tobi: Don't be afraid to use the language. Step out of your comfort zone. Just put yourself out there. Literally, no one will care if you make a mistake. People will be glad you made the effort. Don't always rely on the group members that are better with the language than you are. Ask them how to say something and then go say it instead of having them speak for you.

What made this trip meaningful to you, or how did this trip change your perceptions or future path?

Tobi: The volunteer portion of the program was more meaningful to me than I had anticipated it being. It was very rewarding working with and helping the people, but it was their kindness, gratitude, and generosity that affected me the most. It inspired me to dedicate a portion of my time to volunteer every time I travel.

What are some things you brought that you found handy?

Tobi:Raincoat, waterproof camera, hat (baseball cap), sun glasses, a book, music, sunscreen, aloe vera for sunburns, and bug repellant.

What position do you hold at Pacific Discovery? What has been your career path so far?

I currently work as a Program Leader and Program Coordinator for our Latin American programs. Before landing a job with PD, I was leading high school programs for Walking Tree Travel but I was ready to lead programs with a slightly older age group. I also love what I do and wanted to be on the road running and developing programs full time. Pacific Discovery has given me the opportunity to do all of this and helped me become a more experienced and skilled leader.

Why is language learning and cultural immersion important to you?

My ability to speak Spanish has changed my life. Knowing a second language is more than just being able to navigate a new place. I think before one knows a second language, language is perceived as merely a tool for communication. As you truly immerse yourself in a second language, however, one realizes that language is an active agent in developing and influencing culture, relationships and perspectives. Through Spanish I’ve developed some of the most important relationships I’ve ever had, greatly enhanced my understanding of the cultures of Latin America, expanded my ability to think critically, and ultimately enriched my perspectives on the world.

What does the future hold for Pacific Discovery - any exciting new programs to share?

Yes! I recently spent a month in Cuba to set up our first summer program there, which is scheduled to run in June. I’m really excited to lead a program that embraces the island’s unique geography and beauty while teaching participants about it’s complex history and precarious future—it really delves beyond the touristy surface that most Cuba trips entail. We’re also looking to set up a Central America Semester within the next year or two, and I’m really looking forward to being a part of its development.

Why is language learning and cultural immersion important to you?

We often think of language as merely a method of communication. One could spend years learning Spanish in a classroom and analyzing the grammar and syntax, never moving beyond the technicalities. I love all the grammatical aspects of learning a language, but after living in Spain and being entirely immersed in Spanish culture, I realized how language is an extension of the culture and the various dialects and lexicons are an important part of its history and what makes its people tick. Becoming fluent in Spanish has opened so many doors for me and enabled me to make connections and develop relationships that would not be nearly as strong if I only spoke English. Learning a second language, or even a third, opens your mind—you look at something like a chair, and now know it as a “silla” and a “chaise” and a “sedia”. It enables you to embrace other perspectives, not only linguistically but culturally and in turn become more globally aware.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

The owners of Pacific Discovery, Scott and Rachel, are really devoted to making the world a better place via experiential education and they have set up an amazing and professional support system for their Program Leaders. Since I started working for Pacific Discovery, I’ve been pushed to constantly be a stronger leader and to consistently grow into a better version of myself. I’ve got certified as a Wilderness First Responder, which has given me a great deal more confidence than my previous basic First Aid/CPR training and has proven truly invaluable when traveling "off the beaten path" with a group. I’ve also developed beautiful relationships with other tour guides, host families and all the lovely people I’ve met along the way—people who I am constantly learning from and who, in turn, continually help me to grow.