Starting the business day with a lovely cup of cappuccino is always a sign of a very good day! 🙂

It was very lovely meeting with Ricardo this morning as we have very similar research interests in civic and community engagement as well as issues of access to higher education. I always enjoy sharing about my country, the University of Georgia, and of course, Spiral Dynamic Theory with anyone who will listen. I always get a very attentive and interested reaction from those who I am fortunate enough to discuss my research interest with while in Chile.

Everyone I have contacted so far in Chile has been very responsive to my research agenda. I sent an update email to the Dean of Humanities and Philosophy at the University of Chile, María Eugenia Góngora, letting her know I had arrived to the country.  She has already responded back to me very quickly (at approximately 10pm last night) reaffirming her support for my research. This kind of support is very reminiscent of how my dissertation Chair, Dr. Lorilee Sandmann and prestigious committee members, respond most rapidly to me as well. I feel very blessed and am convinced that I have the best doctoral dissertation committee in history. 🙂

It became very clear to me that Señor Chacon is a very important person here at UCMaule as his telephones (in his office and cellular) are constantly ringing. I was happy he was able to meet with me on such short notice prior to his meeting with the University President (in Chile called the Rector). I also enjoyed a lovely lunch with his family meeting his wife Jimena and their two beautiful little boys.  Later in the week, I will meet with staff from the UCMaule Office of International Student Affairs here in Talca.  I also hope to get information about accessing the gym and Zumba classes.  I will be going to Pilates with Carmen tonight which I hope will hold me over until I can get to some weights and other exercise equipment.  I’ve really been eating a lot of good food here, perhaps a little too much! He he.

My new office companions Veronica (who has the same name as my little sister) and José.

First day on the mission and in my element. 🙂