My academic journey has been shaped by globally oriented coursework, where I have enjoyed learning about cultures and languages, as well as exploring how the world is connected.
Global Learning courses:
American History since 1877 - this course focused on national and international events that shaped America. It gave me a better understanding of American government, civil rights, and the role of the U.S. in historical events such as the world wars.
Theatre Appreciation - in this course, I learned about the different types and cultural contexts of theater around the world such as the Kabuki theater in Japan.
Introduction to Latin American and Caribbean Studies - this course gave me a good overview of the countries and cultures of the region. Through this course, I gained a deeper understanding of regional issues and the history of the Americas. I was also inspired to complete the FIU certificate program in Latin American and Caribbean Studies.
The Global Challenge of Refugees and Migrants - I was especially inspired by this course as it greatly expanded my knowledge of the history of human migration. From learning about the different perceptions of Cuban versus Haitian immigrants in Florida to the open borders of the Schengen agreement in Europe, I gained a better understanding of the migration challenges faced by immigrants and governments.
Diplomacy Lab:
This was a unique experience where we worked on real-world issues with U.S. State Department representatives, such as mapping the Haitian diaspora in the U.S. and researching the Bajo Aguán conflict in Honduras. The team projects and class simulations where we learned about the roles of the U.S. National Security Council, gave me a sense of the technical skills, country and cultural knowledge, and government processes that support decision making and the development of actions plans.
Language and Culture courses:
French - through my French courses, I have improved my grammar and gained a better understanding of French and Francophone culture. I have also learned about the writers and philosophers that shaped French literature. Additionally, I earned a micro credential in 'Reframing French Literature for the 21st Century'.
My French courses included:
French Review Grammar / Writing II
Francophone Business
Contemporary French Society
French 19th and 20th Century Short Stories
Independent Study - French Literature
Special Topics - French Rap
Portuguese - my Portuguese courses helped me improve my language skills as well as my knowledge of Lusophone countries and their cultures. For one of my class projects, I interviewed (in Portuguese) Deputy Consul José Renato Ruy Ferreira of the Brazilian Consulate in Miami. This experience was a great way to use my language skills and learn about the important work the consulate does to support Brazilian businesses in Miami.
My Portuguese courses included:
Accelerated Portuguese II
Foreign Study - Brazil
Special Topics Language - Portuguese
Business Portuguese
Haitian Creole - I attended FIU's Haitian Summer Institute which accelerated my learning about the Haitian language, history, and culture. I was inspired to learn more and completed classes in Haitian Creole translation as well as the FIU certificate program in Haitian Studies.
My Haitian courses included:
Accelerated Haitian
Accelerated Intermediate Haitian
Independent Study - Haitian language and culture
Intro to Creole Translation
Creole Translation and Interpretation
As part of my Certificate in Haitian Studies, I completed a presentation (in Creole) on the Haitian Revolution for FIU students, faculty, and the general public.
Announcement and Presentation: