Honors College Study Abroad still going to Ecuador despite earthquake scare

By Shawn Hutchinson

image via TechTimes

The Washington State University Honors College had planned their trip to Ecuador in May 2016 well in advance. Then, on April 16, an earthquake in the country nearly shook up those plans. However, the trip will go on as planned said Cassie Phillips, a freshman who has had a big role in the organization process.

“It put a huge scare in the plans,” said Phillips. “We were all very worried about if we would be able to go. Now that we know we can, we’re very much aware of how much we could possibly help, if we can, while we’re in the country.”

The Honors College is taking 20 people, nineteen students and faculty member Jessica Cassleman on the trip. During the trip, the participants will live in with Ecuadorian families for approximately two weeks, and travel to the Galapagos before returning to the United States. For sophomore Sydney Roberts, the Galapagos portion will be the highlight of her trip.

“I’m a science major, so I’m so thrilled to go to the Galapagos,” said Roberts. “Being in the same place where Darwin came up with the theory of evolution is mind-blowing.”

Another big aspect of the trip for all of the students is being immersed in another culture for two and a half weeks. Roberts said one of the requirements is to keep a journal describing what they observe in Ecuador and how it compares to the culture of the United States. For sophomore Payton Arnold, this is something she wants to focus on during the trip.

“I have grown up around a lot of diversity, but being in a whole new country will enhance my awareness,” said Arnold.

Some people may question why the Honors College is continuing with the trip. Both Roberts and Arnold acknowledged the people of Ecuador may be critical of having foreigners around in a time of crisis for the country.

“They’re obviously going to be distraught,” said Arnold. “It’s a huge thing in their country, and it has killed hundreds of people. It’s affected a lot of them. I think just the whole atmosphere might not be as happy or positive as it has been.”

Even without the potential obstacle of seismic activity, planning a Study Abroad trip anywhere is a hefty challenge. Phillips said there are classes required for students going abroad, and making sure the participants can get information out of the planning meetings so they can be well-prepared for the trip. Should another earthquake occur, Phillips said she’ll be relatively ready to be safe during the event.

“I come from a fairly seismic active area, so I’ve had some minor earthquakes,” said Phillips, a physics major. “I feel like my reaction, if an earthquake happens, would be fairly methodical and appropriate. If there is a tremor, I feel like I’m well prepared for it. I hope it doesn’t happen, but I feel like things will be okay, especially with my background in understanding how they work. There shouldn’t be buildup of pressure.”

For many of the students, learning the culture of Ecuador is a shared interest in going on this trip, even if it comes at a bad time for the country.

“I think being there will be a great experience, regardless of what has happened,” said Arnold. “It’ll enhance my cultural awareness when it comes to natural disasters.”