Jessica Kroll - May 12th

Today I learned so much about the education system here in Cuba, as well as how a group of people can run their own business with the aid of the government! First, we had our Purdue class in the morning, followed by a coffee break and a group reflection time. After, we were brought to a nice restaurant where we greeted by a band! One of the owners of the restaurant came and spoke with us about the process of running a cooperative business with many other people with the aid of the government. There are many things in the business that the government helps out on, like loaning a place and furniture for these business owners. But the people who own the business really have the say on how they would like to run their business. To become one of these owners, you have to take a test, as well as pass many requirements to show that you are proficient enough to be in the position. These facts about owning a business were very enlightening!

My favorite part of the day was the coffee time with the Cuban students. Since I am an Elementary and Special Education major getting an opportunity to speak with Cuban students about the educational experiences was amazing! I learned many facts that were very interesting to hear. For example, education here in Cuba is free, even at the collegiate level! Other than the education just being free, some of the easiest programs that you can get into are medical school as well as law school. This obviously came a shock as back in the United States this is very much the opposite. The student we spoke to was studying languages. His focus was German, however, he also has learned English, Portuguese, and French. He is currently enrolled in a six-year program at the University of Havana.

Overall, today I learned a lot about how the people of Cuba have been able to take advantage of government programs. It can be from owning your own business to being able to enroll into the major that you are most interested in! They are very grateful for everything that the government is providing for them, and they show that through their actions. They show that they are grateful through their determination to run a business or showing determination of finishing a degree!

Enjoying the music by a nice band and the help of one of our instructors, Ariel who played the maracas! (pictured in the back right corner in white tank top and pink shorts) Pictured from left to right: Amber, Sol, Sydney, Daniel, Ariel, Jop, and Henry. 

Chatting with Cuban students and learning about their education system! Pictured from left to right: Cuban Student, Tyler, Jess, Kevin, Renato, Daniel, Sydney, Lisa, Anthony, and Jordan.