What’s Next After DREAM

Nov 19

I’m writing this post from Prague, Czech Republic, where I am spending the year studying. It’s getting cold here – the leaves are changing color, and the people on the streets are bundled up in scarves and wool coats. As you can imagine my life in Prague is very different from the sunny, tropical year I spent in the Dominican Republic! Instead of pollo frito con habichuelas (fried chicken with beans), I eat knedlíky (stuffed potato dumplings). Instead of jugo de chinola (passion fruit juice), I drink fermented burčák (young wine). I’m content here in Europe, but there are many moments when I miss the warm and vibrant community of Cabarete.

It’s been about two months since I finished my fellowship year with DREAM. During this time, I’ve reflected on what a wonderful year it was, both personally and professionally. I worked on two main projects at DREAM. My biggest was authoring a professional report for the Montessori program on the impact of implementing a supplemental social-emotional curriculum. My other project was with the Youth Development team, where I helped facilitate trainings, workshops, and marketing events. I especially supported Única, a branch of Youth Development focused on female empowerment, sexual health, and reproductive rights.

*Our youth development team, April 2025*

One of the most important lessons I learned at DREAM is that relationships matter. Growing up in the United States a very individualistic culture, I tended to value productivity over quality time with coworkers. However, I soon realized that my best moments at work were when I set aside my need to produce and instead focused on connecting with others. This built trust, teamwork, and a sense of fulfillment.

I also learned patience. I wasn’t comfortable during my first few months in Cabarete. I experienced a lot of culture shock as I adjusted to the Caribbean ways of life. Yet, over time, I discovered that everyone around me was supportive. Whenever I reached out for guidance, the community was there with open arms and smiles.

My work at the DREAM Project played a big role in shaping what I’ve decided to pursue next. I’m currently taking psychology courses at the University of New York in Prague and earning a postgraduate diploma in art therapy at Metaforá Art Therapy School. I’m also in the process of applying to master’s programs in the United States so I can become a licensed school and community counselor. Much of my motivation to pursue mental health counseling comes from my time at DREAM, where I realized how deeply I care about community well-being and interpersonal support systems.

I’m a full-time student again, which feels amazing. Psychology, education, and community art are subjects that inspire and energize me. I love learning how to create environments—both internal and external—that feel safe and supportive for many different kinds of people and communities.

In the Dominican Republic, I loved learning the bachata, swimming and surfing in the ocean, and hopping on the crowded but welcoming guaguas (buses). In Prague, I ride the tram, where most people keep to themselves. I enjoy walking the cobblestone streets along the river, visiting historical castles and museums, and trying out the local cuisine. I miss speaking Spanish and many other aspects of life in the Caribbean, but I know I’ll visit again soon!

¡Hasta luego! Na shledanou! See you later :)