Being part of FIU’s Global Learning Medallion Program has enhanced my cultural perspectives, amplified my awareness of the world around me and increased my global engagement. This experience has opened up my eyes to all this world has to offer, all the differences that we have as well as how similar situations are worldwide.
Perspective:
The Global Learning Medallion Program and the activities required to complete this program have enhanced my ability to take the points of views and cultural perspectives of others into consideration daily. Everyone around the world is raised differently with varying values and are exposed to a wide variety of circumstances which shape their persona. Studying abroad around the world showed me just how different the world around me is and how much people vary. It taught me to really think about how my actions, specifically what I say and do, affect those around me. Furthermore, taking the courses pertaining to teaching children of varying cultures showed me how what I say and do in a classroom can shape the minds of my students and the impact this can make on my community. Lastly, the lecture on “How to Have a Dialogue Across Cultures” showed me how to listen well to the perspectives of others and how to effectively communicate my thoughts and ideas to others.
Awareness:
My global awareness is what I believe has grown the most throughout my time at Florida International University pursuing the Global Learning Medallion. I have become so knowledgeable about the differences around the world and how everything plays a part in a much larger picture. I have witnessed and been exposed to so many problems going on in the world and have had the opportunity to increase my knowledge base on these issues and what can be done to help. The main issue which I have been exposed to is within education as it is my major. I have visited schools in several countries including Myanmar, and Ghana and have been able to gain awareness on the differences in education worldwide as well as the effects that the problems of poverty have o education.
Engagement:
My global engagement has also greatly increased throughout my time pursuing the Global Learning Medallion. I take pride in learning about the world around me and finding ways in which I can help those around the world starting with the community I live in. I have volunteered with a variety of organizations as well as having had various leadership roles which lead others in making a change in the lives of others.
As a Global Citizen I hope to continue learning about this complex world around me, stay updated with global issues and be able to find ways to impact others in a positive manner.