My Global Learning Reflection 

    Since I am Franco-Nicaraguan, my nationality, heritage, and cultural background is quite diverse.  At times, it was very difficult to fit in within the boxes because of the diversity, but since I enjoy being exposed to different cultures and expanding my global perspective and awareness, the Global Learning Medallion Program was perfect for me. Through this program, I was able to partake in a wide array of different events, presentations, and opportunities that would allow for my global expansion to take flight.

    Upon being admitted to FIU, I join the Honors College and the Global Learning Medallion Program. I decided to enroll in these organizations because I wanted to surround myself with like-minded, motivated, and hard working individuals. I knew that these programs would support students who are willing to immerse themselves completely within their academic careers and help them bolster their professional skills and resume. Though both programs have shaped me to be the professional woman that I am today, the Global Learning Medallion program greatly enhanced and refined my global awareness, perspective, and engagement. 

    During my undergraduate research experience and completing my capstone project, I learned several things aside from the research itself. One of the most important things I leaned and took back from the experience was how to collaborate with people completely different from myself. I was required to work with people who had much higher levels of education, completely different ethnic backgrounds, and who specialized in different fields, nevertheless, we all had a common goal to accomplish and that is where most of my collaboration and teamwork skills were able to be redefined. Whilst completing the research project, I was able to develop my professional technical skills and design a novel framework that would be implemented during other future research experiments. 

    Serving my local community is something I have always enjoyed doing since it is a large contributor to my self-identity. I strongly believed these service experiences helps one grow and develop interpersonal skills, the ability to be more understanding, empathetic, and compassionate. Luckily, the Global Learning Medallion program and the Honors College recognizes the value of community service, and the impacts it leaves on the students and the surrounding community. I undoubtedly enhanced my global engagement through the diverse volunteer service activities I participated in. Whether the service was cleaning up local beaches and parks, participating in sporting events, local fairs and festivals, serving children, or the homeless, they taught me the importance of being a leader, team member, and a supporter of our community. 

     Now that I am almost at the finish line, and reflect back upon my undergraduate experience, I realize how much I have been able to accomplish in a short period of time and how much the Global Learning Program has contributed to my growth. Attending events like Tuesday Times Roundtable, have largely contributed to my growth and accomplishments because I have learned immensely and they have also advertised about programs, scholarships, and other exclusive opportunities that help bolster my academic and professional resume. Experiences like this, along side being a student in the Honors college have opened a multitude of doors and opportunities that have lead me where I am today. Having now a new global perspective and refined my global awareness and engagement, I am confident that I have the required skillset, knowledge, and self-awareness to be a competent leader. 

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