Vidda is a graduate student at Penn State University Park pursuing a masters certificate in Business Analytics. During spring 2024, Vidda studied abroad in Curacao through the Embedded: CRIMJ 499 - Race, Crime, and Justice in Curacao - Berks (Spring Break) program.
Continue reading to learn more about Vidda's highlights of her time in Curacao in her own words, why she chose her program, the lessons she took away, how studying abroad was formative to her future, and her advice for students interested in studying abroad!
Vidda on the Queen Emma Bridge in Wilemstad, Curacao.
The beach in Curacao.
The beach in Curacao.
The Kunuku House.
The colorful buildings of Curacao.
"This program and its activities opened my eyes and broadened my understanding of different global perspectives that I would have never known without the valuable insights I gathered throughout this trip. I look forward to continuing to reflect on this trip and expand my studies in race and culture through my future academic and professional goals. I chose this education abroad because I was eager to learn about Race, Crime and Justice. I looked forward to learning something new in a different environment and broaden my horizons.
Going into the embedded spring break trip, I did not imagine how much our focus would delve into the exploration and understanding of colorism and its effects in Curaçao. These complex issues of racial discrimination and colorism also occur in the US, and I found it interesting how much light was shed on these issues. In my role as President of Latinos United for Change on campus for two years, I have consistently encouraged these conversations among our campus community. This experience provided crucial knowledge and further encouraged my future studies in culture and race. I am dedicated to continuing learning through student organizations that I can be a part of, as well as through my Graduate school studies.
Coming back to campus, I recognize just how much my experience of learning from the activities and the beautiful culture has helped me with not only my academic but also my personal goals. From the studies of colorism to tackling social problems and understanding the importance of community, I aim to use these learnings to continue my exploration in creating inclusive communities in my future.
Take the leap! Traveling while you are studying is a wonderful experience that I recommend every student to try at least once."