Every time I prepare to travel to Latin America, I ask my parents if they ever thought they would have a daughter who would travel to places as seemingly obscure as, say, Ecuador. They always answer no, but smile encouragingly. These days leading up to my departure for a summer working with the Centro de Derechos Economicos y Sociales have been no different.

Although I am getting anxious, anticipating my flight out for Quito on June 7, I have felt the support of both family and the wonderful staff at the Advocacy Project here in DC. The training that we are undergoing at the AP office has helped me to refocus my thoughts about what I would like to accomplish during my two and a half months with CDES.

Although communication with CDES has been scattered at best, I am hopeful that upon my arrival I will be able to find a niche in the office and work with CDES to further develop their work and goals. I can think of no better organization to which I would like to dedicate my time and energy this summer.

It appears to be a perfect fit–Latin America and human rights. Also, after spending a semester studying the issues surrounding the integration of economic and social rights with civil and political rights, I am excited to have the chance to make a hands-on, practical contribution to the cause. At the same time, however, I am wondering what CDES expects from me. How will they react to a 22-year old American girl coming to work with them? Will I be able to show them that I am dedicated to their cause and I want to learn as much as I can from them?

My emotions have been running high here for the past couple of days–mostly hopes for a fulfilling summer abroad. I am excited to see Ecuador and to meet the CDES staff. I am excited to continue my work in the furthering of economic and social rights. And, I am excited to represent the Advocacy Project in Latin America. But, most of all, I am hopeful that I will be able to make a positive contribution to CDES’s work in Ecuador.