I was originally exposed to the enrichment of global connectivity through my Narrative 4 story exchange with Mimi Rudaflores. From her, I learned the value of cultural immersion— only complete immersion can provide enough understanding to result in learning or growth. I learned that sentimental commonalities transcend global barriers and that storytelling, paired with lived experience, is the basis of connection.

I began to employ this insight on my GIP trip to Costa Rica. I went beyond typical tourism, challenging my Spanish skills by conversing with locals in Tortuguero, cooking a farm-to-table meal at a Permaculture farm in Monteverde, and exploring unfamiliar ecosystems as I encountered Cahuita’s marine life. These moments of immersion deepened my understanding of the interconnectedness between people, culture, and the environment in an international context, and sharing these stories has allowed me to further build connections with my peers.

Through the Global Scholars program, I aim to deepen my global perspective by engaging in new experiences that challenge my assumptions and broaden my worldview. I hope to further develop my ability to surpass barriers through storytelling, and I want to facilitate connection-building both within the Poly community and beyond it.