On the way to the comedor (dining hall), there is a raised flower bed full of purple agapanthus, also known as the Lily of the Nile. Every time I walk past it on my way to dinner, I can hear the lizards skitter away into the leaves. But one day, something else caught my eye: two butterflies, light and graceful, hovered among the blooms.
I was surprised. Up until then, the only insects I had seen were spiders, mosquitoes, and the creepy centipede-like things that haunt my bathroom and startle me mid-shower. So to see these butterflies, maybe Common Yellow Swallowtails, though I’m not sure, floating so effortlessly around the lilies was magical.
This week, I felt a lot like those butterflies.
By that, I mean I grew antennae and extra legs (JK, my ag teacher would’ve loved that joke). What I mean is that I felt like I had finally emerged from my cocoon. I began to move through each day with more confidence, more independence. I was advocating for myself, stepping out of my comfort zone, and yet, in a way, I also felt like I belonged here. At CIMMYT, I’ve found not just purpose, but people, friends, mentors, and experiences I once only hoped for.
On Monday, I was in the lab with Aldo prepping for a digestibility experiment. I was trusted to work independently because I already knew the steps. I also helped measure the protein content of groundnut samples, only 100 out of 900, but still. As I worked, I felt just like those butterflies, calm, capable, and in sync with the rhythm of the lab.
Measuring the Protein in Groundnut Samples
Tuesday gave me a chance to take charge. A scheduling error left me without a planned activity, and instead of waiting passively, I messaged Aldo and offered to help with his experiment. I didn’t sit on the sidelines. I shaped my day. I determined my experience.
Helping Aldo with a digestibility experiment
On Wednesday, I was bold, just like those yellow wings in the sunshine. I presented my research to experts from the SAS Program. I was nervous, but I did it. I spoke clearly, confidently, and walked away proud. I’m so grateful to everyone back home who helped me prepare for that moment.
Presenting my Research to Experts in CIMMYT
Thursday brought a challenge; I helped translate a research paper into English even though I can’t read Spanish. But I didn’t let that stop me. I used every resource I had to make sure I was contributing meaningfully and respectfully. I rose to meet the task, just like a butterfly riding the wind.
On Friday I was in the lab again. It was a lot of fun but they didn’t have too much to do, so, I got off early and was able to crawl back into my cocoon and take nap before my dance class!
Rocking the Lab Coat Again Today!
Renee told me that just as I got comfortable in Mexico, it would be time to go home. I didn’t realize how true that would be until now.
But maybe that’s what becoming a butterfly is all about. It’s not just about the transformation itself; it’s about what you do once you’ve changed. It’s about the courage to break out of what once held you, the strength to navigate something entirely new, and the grace to trust yourself in unfamiliar territory. This week, I finally spread my wings. I stepped into new spaces, asked questions, took initiative, and allowed myself to grow.
Just like those butterflies in the lilies, unassuming but remarkable, I’ve learned to move with confidence, even when the air is uncertain. And even though my time here is almost over, I know that this experience will continue to carry me forward. Because once you’ve learned how to fly, the world feels a little wider.
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