Reflection

With my original mindset of taking Japanese language classes to satisfy my degree’s language requirement, I ended up on a journey I would have never dreamed of. Despite my interest in other cultures since my youth, I had never put much effort to look into them. Furthermore, I had accepted that I was not skillful at learning languages and resigned myself to focusing on my science classes for my Biology degree. With the push of a language requirement, I decided to take Japanese language classes. I realized that I had been putting myself down for no reason because learning Japanese was enjoyable, and I was able to successfully learn what I encountered.

         After two semesters of Japanese language classes, I became more proactive in my interest towards other cultures and languages. I participated in FIU’s Intensive Language & Culture in Kyoto, Japan. I had always viwed myself as shy, but as I was thrown into this situation of interacting with people new to me I gained a confidence in new situations and enjoyed interacting with new people. When I returned to FIU the following semester, I recognized I had more interests than I had been allowing myself to enjoy and decided to indulge all my passions. I started participating in Japan Club and became a PAW Representative. I followed through with my pre-med responsibilities and satisfied my cultural interests. Then, I decided to complete a Global Medallion. I was introduced to various topics such as Italian film’s, Holocaust discussions, and the economies of Nordic countries.

         Through every additional step I took along my global journey, my appreciation and knowledge of various countries grew. Through my various experiences with the global community that FIU has provided me, I continue my path to become a physician, but with a new sense of confidence and a desire to help various communities.