I’m not like many study abroad students. I have left the country before, I’ve been away from home for extended periods of time. I don’t talk to my parents every day. For me, I didn’t have to change my mentality to get ready for Ecuador. I wasn’t sad when I left home to go to Athens for a few days of class before we left the country. My biggest obstacle before the trip was making sure I had the proper attire for the rainforest. Georgia weather does not prepare you for the humidity of Ecuador and trail hiking. I went on many shopping trips making sure I had the proper clothes and hiking equipment to help me through the hot humid days of Ecuador. But after days of shopping and advice from former students, I feel I am ready to take on the rainforest.