Wow, I can’t believe that we are already finishing the first week of school down here in Pucon! Through ironing out the schedule, getting bodies ready for the river and minds ready for class, I have managed to get acquainted with all of my new students!! My name is Callie, and I am the new Literature teacher and Public Relations Coordinator. I will be keeping you updated on the happenings throughout our time in Chile, and am happy to chat with any of you at any time. You can read a more detailed account of my life on the staff web page, but here’s a quick summary: I grew up in Southern California, studied literature and international relations at the University of Salamanca, in Spain, and at the University of Alaska, Anchorage. International travel and playing outside are my passions. I am super excited about joining NRA, and know from the first week that I am going to love this job!
           Also joining us this semester is Lorenzo, our new Spanish teacher and native Chilean. Lorenzo loves all sports, and is a member of the Chilean National Rafting Team, which took him to the World Cup in Bosnia, where his team placed second. He has been involved with whitewater his whole life; his family owns a prominent rafting and eco-tourism company on the Rio Maipo. He also obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in eco-tourism. We are all excited about the kids learning Spanish from a native speaker.
           Four days ago, I went with Dave to collect the kids from the airport, and knew that I would soon fall in love with this program. Even after a long flight, the kids all eagerly introduced themselves and welcomed me. Four days into the quarter, I already feel like we have become friends, and can’t wait to gain their confidence further.
            To some students’ dismay, today is rainy; Andy has lured them out from the cover of the quincho to collect firewood to finish cooking our traditional Chilean lunch, pastel de choclo. The fire is growing and we are all preparing to enjoy a tasty lunch, tucked away in the comfort of the fire-warmed quincho. I’m in love with this place already. In a couple days, we leave for Choshuenco, to run the Rio Fuy, where I will update you again of our explorations here in Chile!

Callie

At the hostel we were staying at we would have classes by the fire some mornings. It was a really cool experience having class there, all snuggled in our down jackets next to the fire. The food there was also so amazing. Its so fun to try all the new Chilean dishes. As always it was sad to leave but now we’re all ready for our next location which will hold even more new adventures.