My in-country experience in Cochabamba, Bolivia, was defined by a combination of hands-on project work, cultural immersion, and personal reflection. Each day began at CEOLI, an educational center serving children with varying developmental needs, where my team and I worked directly with staff to better understand their challenges and identify meaningful deliverables. Beyond CEOLI, we explored the city and surrounding areas, which deepened my understanding of Bolivian culture and enriched my overall experience.
On our first day at CEOLI, we were introduced to the facility by the director and then split into smaller groups to observe and engage with staff. I paired with Audrey, and we began by working with the teens to adults group. Initially, we attempted to ask questions based on prior information we had gathered. However, this approach quickly proved ineffective. The staff were actively working with children, and our questions felt intrusive. This created discomfort, as we were trying to balance observation, note-taking, and meaningful engagement without disrupting their workflow.
This experience was important because it forced us to reassess our approach to fieldwork. We learned that effective engagement requires adaptability and sensitivity to context. Rather than imposing our agenda, we began to observe more closely and wait for natural opportunities to ask questions. Unfortunately that never came that day as we spent the day dancing with the students and having fun, which in hindsight was better for our first day because we were able to connect with the students and the staff which then made it more comfortable to ask questions later on.
Outside of CEOLI, we explored Cochabamba, visiting local landmarks like the Cristo de la Concordia and experiencing the city’s atmosphere. These activities were important because they provided cultural context and allowed us to connect more deeply with the environment in which we were working. I became particularly aware of the collective mood and character shaped by the people, the environment, and the daily life. In Cochabamba, this feeling was one of peace and warmth, which contrasted sharply with the fierce, more fast-paced environment I was used to back home.
On our second day, we applied what we had learned. Audrey and I worked with the younger kids providing assistance where needed and playing with the children. Then on our third day Lenna and I got to interview Maria. She was one of the swim teachers and provided us with critical information that we needed to proceed with the project. On our fourth and final day at Ceoli we presented our project so far and what our plans are to continue. Then we spent the rest of the time painting the changing rooms for the pool as well as the main wall on the outside of the pool. Then came one of the saddest things…saying goodbye to the students and staff at Ceoli. I didn’t know that in such a short time I would’ve made such a connection to the people of Ceoli, but I’m so happy that I did as I will remember them forever.
In addition to our work at CEOLI, we traveled to nearby towns, visited a university, and participated in cultural activities such as traditional dance lessons and pottery making. These experiences were important because they broadened my perspective and reinforced the value of cultural immersion. Engaging with local students and artisans helped me appreciate the richness of Bolivian culture and the importance of community.
Reflecting on my expectations prior to the trip, I intentionally approached the experience with as few preconceived notions as possible. I believe that expectations can limit one’s ability to fully engage with new experiences. By maintaining an open mindset, I allowed Cochabamba to define itself on its own terms. While I did not have specific expectations to be met, I was nonetheless surprised by the level of kindness and hospitality we encountered.
Despite my effort to remain open-minded, challenges did arise. The primary challenge was navigating the balance between gathering information and respecting the staff’s time and responsibilities. Initially, this led to inefficiencies and discomfort. However, by adapting our approach—focusing on observation, timing our questions better, and actively assisting—we were able to overcome these challenges and become more effective in our roles.
Class discussions and readings played a significant role in shaping my experience, particularly the reading on “Top Project Team Challenges.” This material proved highly relevant when our team began to feel uncertain about our direction due to unclear goals. Recognizing this issue, I took the initiative to organize a brief team meeting one morning before we began work. During this meeting, I reiterated our objectives, clarified our scope, and emphasized our deliverables. This intervention was important because it realigned the team and restored focus. By the end of the day, we had successfully gathered the information needed to complete our final presentation. This experience demonstrated the practical value of course concepts and reinforced the importance of leadership and communication in team settings.
Overall, my time in Cochabamba was transformative. I developed a deeper appreciation for adaptability, cultural awareness, and human connection. The experience taught me that meaningful work is not just about delivering results, but about understanding and respecting the people you are working with. It also reinforced the idea that some of the most impactful moments come from small, genuine acts of kindness. I left Bolivia not only with a sense of accomplishment, but also with a desire to return—drawn by the people, the culture, and the sense of peace I experienced there.
Lastly I want to thank Bolivia, specifically Cochabamba and more specifically Ceoli and its people. I have had such a transformative experience there that I will never forget and will be telling the story of till the day I die, so for that I am truly grateful.