Reflection

Florida International University, with emphasis on international, I did not understand the depth of its global aptitude at the beginning of my freshman year in 2018. Through the exploration of different programs at FIU, one struck my attention the most, the Office of Global Learning. The Office of Global Learning enriched my mind of lives outside of Miami and problems that existed outside of the United States. It provided the knowledge and resources to tackle issues from the refugee crisis in Latin America to the highly diverse cultures in Asia. 

 

Through taking courses ranging from the beauty of Japanese literature to the understanding of different complex world religions, it expanded the way I perceive the world. Japanese literature showed me how alluring yet disorderly the world was. While contemporary international problems illustrated a different side of international policies that affect both the Global South and Global North. Through the Virtual Tabadul, sponsored by the US Department of State, allowed me to have an Arabic language exchange experience with Moroccan and Algerian university students. While competing in collegiate competition for Model United Nations changed the way I interacted with others and how to think strategically during a crisis. In retrospect, each of these experiences gave me a strong global awareness that I did not know was possible to have. It changed my life in a dramatic fashion, where it diverted my whole career and academic path. 

 

Each of these interactions/experiences gave rise to me being a more active global citizen. To be engaged and be present in activism is deeply necessary to formulate change in today’s society. It is evident, through understanding and being aware of these global issues, one can develop a strong empathy to make a difference. All in all, I am forever grateful for the opportunities and experiences I had at FIU. I know, as a prospective doctor and medical researcher, that this work does not end but it is forever continuing.