After teary goodbyes and an arduous plane ride, we finally arrived back in Minnesota! It is bittersweet reuniting with our family and friends but also having to leave the new family and friends we have made behind. I have spent most of the weekend catching up with family, friends, and my fur babies while taking in the luxuries of everyday American life that I have taken for granted.

Many friends and family have asked me “How was your trip?” or “What is Cuba like?” to which I still struggle to answer. Throughout my time in Cuba, I have learned that struggling to find the right answer to this question is not only common but shows the incredible depth and uniqueness of this course. My perspective on Cuba and Cuba-U.S relations has forever changed and it can be difficult to translate this into a single statement. As a leader, taking on these difficult conversations with an accurate and contextual depiction of the people and culture is imperative. Every day I continue to put my perspective and experience into words and reflect on the changes I have experienced in my learning and thinking. I am excited to be back and apply this course to my future learning and travel!