Life in Italy can be summed up in a few words: expect heat and lots and lots of walking. The heat I can do without, however having work, food, and stores accessible by walking is a dream of mine for my future. In the US most places are not built for walking from point AContinue reading “Living On My Feet”
Category Archives: Global Scholars
Culture Within the Refugee Community
Although I am not a refugee, working at the International Rescue Committee has allowed me to interact with and observe the refugee community daily. My work entails dealing with refugees’ paperwork and assisting them with any problems they might have. Working at the IRC provides me with the opportunity to interact with refugees and theirContinue reading “Culture Within the Refugee Community”
Solidarity in the Refugee Community
The refugee community endures issues such as lack of finances and lack of resources. It is when these issues are the most prominent; that forces within the refugee community such as the International Rescue Committee, churches, mosques, and affiliated partners become the most vital. These forces in the community come together in solidarity to supportContinue reading “Solidarity in the Refugee Community”
My Daily Routine
My daily routine during my experience has been fairly busy. I volunteer at the International Rescue Committee Monday through Thursday, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. I wake up at 8:00 AM to eat breakfast, get ready for work, and commute to my worksite. On Mondays and Tuesdays, I work in the Resource Development department,Continue reading “My Daily Routine”
The Structural Inequalities that Refugees Face
Since beginning my time at the International Rescue Committee, I have learned about the many inequalities that refugees face in Tallahassee. Refugees are forced to start a new life in a new place filled with unfamiliar customs. They go through several long, bureaucratic processes to gain self-sufficiency. Despite already going through these tedious steps, refugeesContinue reading “The Structural Inequalities that Refugees Face”
Part of the Ship, Part of the Crew
For me this experience has reshaped how I look at my community. There are so many aspects to the community that I was not aware of. I have found that the area I live in is way more diverse in cultures and languages. Vietnamese is one of the top languages spoken in the area thatContinue reading “Part of the Ship, Part of the Crew”
In Case of Emergency, Don’t Come to Florida
In emergency management, it is clear when solidarity arises. One of the many great joys of an emergency is the “rally around the flag” effect. It is an unspoken call to action after a major occurrence that often carries with it themes of patriotism and community. Moments like 9/11 recovery or after hurricane Katrina comeContinue reading “In Case of Emergency, Don’t Come to Florida”
Group Dynamics & My New Community
Morocco to Italy This past week I said goodbye to Morocco and hello to the small town of Pavia, Italy. I was filled with excitement to begin my Medical Shadowing Program in Italy, but sad to leave behind my kiddos, the wonders of the Sahara Desert, and the bustling streets of Morocco. As I madeContinue reading “Group Dynamics & My New Community”
Acts of Solidarity in Cusco
I have noticed many examples of solidarity in Cusco. Peru is recovering from previously extremely hard times during the pandemic, and therefore there is a lot of solidarity in efforts to diminish COVID-19. Everyone wears a mask on the bus and in many public spaces. To my surprise, people even wear masks while walking byContinue reading “Acts of Solidarity in Cusco”
Being at the International Rescue Committee
On my first day at the International Rescue Committee, I felt as if I had entered a whole new world. The work and topics that I had to familiarize myself with were entirely foreign. The office culture and setup were unusual compared to a standard office. But the unique collaborative office setting allowed me toContinue reading “Being at the International Rescue Committee”