What words would you use to describe your identity/identities?  

I identify as a bi-racial cis-gender black woman. I'm also a painter, introvert, Cancer (zodiac sign), and pickle-fanatic.  I am a first-generation college student, and was the first in my family to study abroad.

What motivated you to choose to study abroad? 

I only had one short international travel experience before study abroad, and as a first-generation college student, no one in my family had ever studied abroad—this made the whole concept feel both novel and improbable.  Thankfully the college I attended had a strong emphasis on internationalism, which really normalized and encouraged the opportunity.  It was an expectation that to have a fully rounded educational experience, you would go abroad.  Being in that kind of environment was the push I needed to make it happen.

When you studied abroad, did your identity(ies) influence your experience in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

I specifically chose to go to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil because being a bi-racial black woman, there are not a lot of places where the majority identifies similarly to me race-wise.  I felt it was a once in a lifetime chance to immerse myself in a population comprised of many mixed-race (black/white) individuals.  In Rio, almost half of the population identifies that way.

Throughout my time there, I was surprised at how much my national identity stood out, and so even though, phenotypically speaking, I could blend in with the population, I learned a lot about the visibility of, and privilege tied to my "Americanness". On top of that, it was a unique opportunity to live in another country with the same deep ties to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade but shaped by its own particular cultural and political forces. I wanted to explore the different trajectories of those of us from the African Diaspora.  We who have shared origins and shared histories of displacement and trauma, yet possibly have different pathways and strategies to liberation.

Has studying abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path? If so, how? 

After returning from study abroad, I received IES Abroad's first ever Blogger of the Year Award for my video blog.  Shortly after graduating from college, I joined IES Abroad's Marketing Department.  I've been here for over 3 1/2 years and was recently promoted to the Video and Social Media Manager position. So, it's very obvious that studying abroad led me straight into the field of international education, which was not on my radar before going abroad, but it's something that I'm deeply thankful to be a part of now! 

What experiences or skills gained from studying abroad continue to influence your life now?

Open-mindedness, the ability to observe and appreciate difference without judgement, a radical ability to trust in myself, an acute awareness of my personal strength and my ability to face adversity, increased cultural competence and flexibility, and an understanding that accepting the flow of life (the challenges, obstacles, and surprises) is much more rewarding than resisting it.  Also, joy of the unknown, acceptance of conflicting truths, and appreciation of nuances.

In one sentence, tell students who identify similarly why studying abroad is a good idea, particularly for them.

I think studying abroad, especially for students of marginalized identities, is critical.  It's a reminder that the world is not only available for us to explore, but that we are active participants in shaping it, despite the limitations we may feel at home.  After going abroad you come back with a newfound confidence that gives you the tools you need to better advocate for yourself.  You may even find that your place and purpose in the world has been crystallized.  Above all, studying abroad is an experience that bolsters who you are and what you believe you are capable of, forever.  Cultivating a diverse array of future global leaders who are compassionate and critical and culturally competent begins right here, right now, through study abroad.

What words would you use to describe your identity/identities? 

I am a black, Christian, heterosexual, cisgender female who is also a twin, and one of the oldest in a family of 8 kids (my twin is supposedly older).

What motivated you to choose to study abroad? 

I've wanted to study abroad ever since I was 12 years old. That's when I first realized it was an option.  In middle school, my sister and I both were approached by People to People, an ambassador organization for middle-schoolers, and that's when I discovered that seeing the world was an option.  My parents couldn't afford to send us abroad then, but after doing some research, I realized that going abroad would be a viable option once I was in college, so I made it happen.

When you studied abroad, did your identity(ies) influence your experience in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

It did.  Being the only black student on my program in Ireland was definitely an interesting experience.  Every week, I would go to my creative writing class with a new story of how someone stopped me on the street because they hadn't ever met a black person before.  And, while, yes, this experience was irritating at times, I not only learned to be more patient, but I also honed my small talk skills.  I got really good at making conversation on the street, which helped when we were traveling as a group outside of Dublin and meeting people outside of our program, and is a constant skill I use now for my current position! 

And vice versa, when you studied abroad, did your experience influence your identity(ies) in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

Studying abroad was the first time in my life where I was American before I was African-American.  It made me view myself as part of the cohort a bit more, rather than an outlier within the group.  (Not that my fellow American Dubliners weren't amazing!) 

Has studying abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path? If so, how?

Most definitely!  Before studying abroad, I had no idea that this was even a career path that existed! Now, not only do I work for IES Abroad—first as a Program Advisor, and now as a Diversity Relations Manager—but I have plans to continue within this field. 

What experiences or skills gained from studying abroad continue to influence your life now?

What initially drew me to IES Abroad's Dublin program was the Celtic Myth and Legends course. However, while I was there, I also took my very first creative writing class (though I've been writing short stories since I was 10), and that class (especially Stephen!) influenced me to continue writing.  I've taken a variety of different writing courses since then, and I'm currently preparing for my second attempt at Nanowrimo, National Novel Writing Month.  Nanowrimo is an Internet-based creative writing project where participants pledge to write a 50,000-word novel throughout November. My goal is to complete my book and get it published.

Share one of your favorite memories from when you studied abroad.

It's so hard to choose just one, so I'm going to cheat a little bit and share two.  

My very first day-trip was to a pretty seaside town in Ireland named Howth. A group of us planned the trip together, and on a cold and windy Saturday we took a train and explored this little city. At some point, I wandered away from my friends a little bit and saw something amongst the trees that were surrounding the castle (there are castles everywhere in Ireland). I was too afraid to walk in the woods by myself (mostly because of fairy stories—which, trust me, are nothing like Disney!), so I found my friends and convinced them to walk with me. We happened upon some hidden ruins off the beaten path, and it's one of my favorite memories now! The other memory I wanted to share also took place in Ireland. My sister and a friend of ours came to visit me from their study abroad program in Rotterdam (about an hour away from Amsterdam), and I was able to find us pretty cheap tickets to a Drake concert. Dublin was one of the first stops on his Club Paradise Tour. Not only was it cool to experience a concert in another city, but he performed "Make Me Proud" in which he called out Howard University. Since all three of us were current Howard students, we, of course, went nuts!

In one sentence, tell students who identify similarly why studying abroad is a good idea, particularly for them.

Think of the stories you'll be able to share!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

When I say think of the stories you'll be able to share, I don't just mean the stories that you'll use to impress your friends and family back home. I mean the stories you'll use that will one day help you network when you're in a room where you don't know anyone; the stories that will highlight the skills and abilities you've learned so that you'll be able to get your dream job; the stories that will allow you to reminisce with a massive smile on your face with the life-long friends you'll gain throughout this.  Those are the stories you should think about.

I know that going abroad, especially as a black student is scary, and, quite honestly, difficult. You have all these barriers set against you, up to and including your skin color and how that color means you may be perceived or treated while you are abroad. I get it. I've been there. However, don't let that stop you. There are so many incredible opportunities that will come once you step outside of your comfort zone. You'll have the chance to meet so many wonderful people and open their eyes to a whole new perspective, all while they are broadening yours. Studying abroad was a fantastic experience that I got to cross off of my bucket-list and which then infected me with the travel bug. I'm so glad I dared to go!

What words would you use to describe your identity/identities? 

I would say that I am an Indian-American woman and I am curious and interested in the world around me.

What motivated you to study abroad? 

I chose to study abroad to get some perspective on my education.  I was studying Spanish, and I realized that I wanted to test my skills in a real-world setting with Spanish speakers and also improve my Spanish skills in the process. It was also important for me to study abroad because I found myself becoming stuck in the routine of school life and performing poorly in my academics.  

When you studied abroad, did your identity(ies) influence experience in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how? 

When I studied abroad I found that I did not stand out among the Chilean people in a way that the rest of my white-American peers did.  Often, when I would travel or explore by myself, the Chileans would assume me to be a local and would charge me fairer prices rather than tourist ones. I also realized that because of speaking two other Indian languages besides English, I could speak Spanish without a strong American accent, which was important because it helped me avoid sounding too American and helped me fit in more easily. 

And vice versa, when you studied abroad, did your experience influence your identity(ies) in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how? 

My experience did influence my identity in a lot of ways.  I found myself thinking more openly and being more accepting.  I was exposed to different lifestyles when I would meet travelers who were choosing to run blogs, online stores, or have a contract that included six months of vacation.  These people inspired me to explore other routes after graduation or once I enter my professional career.  My experience also gave me the confidence to be myself more because I realized that even in Chile people shared my sense of humor and understood my jokes. 

Has studying abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path? If so, how?

Studying abroad and interning with Microsoft showed me that I would be equally as comfortable working with a group of foreigners as with a group of Americans. I enjoyed my experience in a setting different than the United States, and I learned that some of the stereotypes about working in a Latin workplace are truer than others.  I did find the people to be warmer, friendlier, and more eager to take care of one another in the workplace, however, on the other hand, I did not think that they were lazier than their American counterparts or less motivated.  Interning with Microsoft showed me the philanthropy and social impact side of the business and made me realize the importance of technology in empowering vulnerable populations.  Through this experience, I realized that even though my degree is not preparing me for a technical career, I can still use my marketing and Spanish skills to create impact in a country by giving people access to resources that can help them learn and progress.

What experiences or skills gained from studying abroad continue to influence your life now? 

My experience with my host mom made me more willing to accept other lifestyles especially because I had to understand someone's values and ideals really intimately and be respectful of them. This experience made me less judgemental about other people's decisions and lifestyles and more empathetic.  As a resident assistant this is really valuable because I can relate to my residents on their level and provide guidance for them.  I also think that this is an important ability to have because it can help you work better in teams, and communicate to people with varying priorities. 

In one sentence, tell students who identify similarly why studying abroad is a good idea, particularly for them. 

It can be really important to step outside one's own daily life and experiences to gain an appreciation for another culture and lifestyles especially to understand the motivations of other people. 

Share one of your favorite memories from your time abroad. 

My favorite memory is the time I went to visit the Atacama desert. On the last day of my trip I found a hostel worker that I had met the night before, and we sat down and started talking.  For a couple of hours, we sat in the shade, and we talked about everything from his favorite type of tourists and past jobs, to my American experience in Chile and speaking Spanish with a Chilean accent.  It was relaxing and easy to sit and talk and we went where the conversation took us; in a couple of hours, we were laughing at our new inside jokes and making fun of one another as if we were age-old friends.  I start smiling when I look back at the conversation because we laughed so much and it made me realize that we can all benefit from connecting a little more and sharing our time with others. 

Want to get to know Jaagrit a little better? Read more in her blog! Jaagrit served as one of our Fall 2018 IDEA Correspondents.  

What words would you use to describe your identity/identities? 

I am a Japanese-speaking, black American woman with Southern roots who is a married mother of three children.

What motivated you to choose to study or intern abroad?

During my childhood, I never quite felt I belonged anywhere until the world embraced me. I’d lived a relatively nomadic life as a kid, due to my dad’s job relocations as a salesman. I’d been forced to uproot, resettle and try to fit in more than 8 times in new communities across three states. I had a vision disability that limited my ability to see the details of life with the clarity most enjoy. And, I was a Southern black girl thrust into all-white Northern and Midwest environments where I felt like a foreigner in my own country.

Books about other places were my salvation during those unsure years. I read voraciously about other countries and their people, a pastime that cultivated my love and wanderlust for other places, in part, because I somehow felt that there was a place for me somewhere, someplace out there in the bigger world.

After a family excursion to a Japanese restaurant sparked a fascination with Japanese culture and language, I eventually decided that only by studying in Japan would I learn the language I’d fallen in love with. 

During my student days at Spelman College, Japanese wasn’t yet offered. The few programs abroad that would enable my dream of studying abroad in Japan required a minimum of completed college level Japanese courses. IES Abroad was the premier opportunity, which Spelman’s longtime study abroad director, Margie Ganz steered me. I didn’t meet the Japanese proficiency qualification despite otherwise being an Honors scholar with a high GPA. Margie Ganz spoke to Michael Steinberg, IES Abroad Vice President, on my behalf. And, in my desperation, I also called to him make my case, and to promise to excel despite the disadvantage of having no formal Japanese language training.

He said 'yes'. What for him may have been a simple decision changed the trajectory of my life. That decision was my passport to 30 years of traveling the world that has taken me to more than 25 countries, and the honor of an opportunity to spearhead efforts that have led to more than 10,000 students of color and thousands more first-gen and financially-challenged students, students of diverse faiths and LGBTQ+ students enrolling in our IES Abroad programs. All of this from a simple 'yes'.

When you studied or interned abroad, did your identity(ies) influence your experience in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

My identity as a black American woman did influence my experience when I studied in Japan and during our spring break excursion - in surprising and not so surprising ways. Since the Olympics took place in Seoul, Korea that year, many assumed I was an American athlete making a pit stop in Japan on my way to Seoul. There were others who assumed I was related somehow to singer Janet Jackson, who was on a world tour then and was the closest young black woman in pop culture at the time people could align me with in their limited awareness of black women. Though neighbors, Nanzan University students and others were friendly and curious, rarely was it initially assumed I was a typical American college student there to study Japanese culture and language. I stood out, physically, everywhere I went – a phenomenon I had to adjust to. What's interesting is that I experienced a glimpse of what life must be like for famous people who attract stares and picture-taking like they are objects of curiosity and fascination. I became increasingly aware of the lack of awareness, on a global scale, of black Americans or others of African descent beyond pop culture stereotypes. I took greater pride in my heritage and my desire to expand others' perceptions. My sense of American-ness also grew during that period.

Has studying abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path? If so, how?

Yes, following my study abroad experience in Japan, I became even more determined to shape a career that would enable me to work that has an impact on a global scale.

What experiences or skills gained from studying abroad continue to influence your life now?

I continue to be relatively fearless when it comes to change. I embrace change. I also gained heightened independence, resourcefulness, and self-reliance skills that still factor into my life tremendously. While exploring Japan and China, I opened my mind more to cultural differences - tried new foods, traditions, language and ways of doing things - and have remained open in the same way since. Japanese Yaki soba, rice grown in Hokkaido and Yamagata, miso soup and ebi tempura are still some of my all-time favorite foods. I have a genuine love and appreciation for humanity across superficial differences; these feelings truly matured during study abroad.

In one sentence, tell students who identify similarly why studying/interning abroad is a good idea, particularly for them.

When you go abroad, you open yourself to the breathtaking achievements and expanse of the African diaspora across this world, and, in doing so, you'll empower yourself in amazing ways and transform how you view yourself and your place in the world.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Go. See. Do. Learn. Then, inspire others to do so as well.

What words would you use to describe your identity/identities?

I am a first-generation Mexican-American and first-generation college graduate.  I was also the first in my family to study abroad, and traveling has formed a huge part of my identity since.  

What motivated you to choose to study abroad? 

I honestly just wanted to get to know a new place.  I was interested in learning about a new culture and thought that Spain would be ideal in helping me develop my Spanish as well. 

When you studied abroad, did your identity(ies) influence your experience in significant and/or surprising ways?  If so, how? 

Yes!  It was a goal of mine to get to know and interact with locals and that is why I chose to live in a residence hall where about half the students were American, and the other half were Spanish.  Having been raised in a Spanish speaking household, I spoke it fluently and I was surprised to discover how much easier that made it for me to make friends with the Spaniards, as opposed to some of my American friends. Along the same lines, most of my Spanish friends saw me purely as Mexican and didn't really associate me with the United States. 

And vice versa, when you studied abroad, did your experience influence your identity(ies) in significant and/or surprising ways?  If so, how? 

Yes, I've always felt a very strong tie to my Mexican roots and often identified myself as Mexican rather than American or even Mexican-American.  I have always been proud of my Mexican culture and incorporated the food/music/language in my everyday life, but because I felt so at home in Granada, my sense of style, vocabulary, and even taste changed dramatically.  I am still very proud of my Mexican roots and they are still very relevant, but I was surprised at how much I incorporated Spanish cultures and customs into my life.

Has studying abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path?  If so, how?

Prior to studying abroad, I wanted to major in accounting and work at a public accounting firm.  Although that didn't immediately change upon my return, my experience abroad set the path for my "Gap Year" working at a high school in Madrid, which then prompted my career change into International Education. 

What experiences or skills gained from studying abroad continue to influence your life now?

I find that my time abroad is relevant EVERY SINGLE DAY.  It allowed me to discover my love for traveling, which I try to do as often as possible; it connected me with people I am still friends with, and it allows me to do my job effectively when I am advising students about what to think about when considering different study abroad programs.  

In one sentence, tell students who identify similarly why studying abroad is a good idea, particularly for them.

I think as Latinx individuals, a lot of us don't have a ton of people to look to for guidance on going abroad, but that is why we can take the initiative to do that for others.  Don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone and be 100% open to new experiences; having a set of expectations can keep us from enjoying the opportunities in front of us!

Share one of your favorite memories from your time abroad. 

There was a tiny crepe shop owned by a French couple close to where I lived and after stumbling upon it and falling in love, I took my new Residencia friends there and devoured my crepe in approximately 60 seconds. 

Is there anything else you'd like to share? 

Somebody once told me that it is not enough to appreciate the beautiful customs we learn from other cultures, we must carry them with us and share them with others; if we bring aspects of what we liked and carry them out wherever we go, it will allow us to miss that place a little less. 

What words would you use to describe your identity/identities? 

I would describe myself as a mixed Chinese/Caucasian-American, cisgendered, demiromantic woman with creative interests.

What motivated you to choose to study abroad?

Studying abroad has been an interest of mine for a long time, as I love learning new languages, experiencing new cultures, and immersing myself in places outside of the United States. As a college student interested in the creative arts, as well as translation, the opportunity to study abroad became invaluable—not just because of the experiences I could use in my writing, but also because of the firsthand language and cultural knowledge I would gain while abroad.

When you studied abroad, did your identity(ies) influence your experience in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

While abroad, I would say that the identities that came into play the most were my ethnicity and nationality. While in Japan, my somewhat Asian physical appearance allowed me to blend in, though my foreign status and language ability would make themselves apparent whenever I spoke. Still, I appreciated the opportunity to pass and introduce myself in my own way, because I broke the stereotypes people had of Americans and my language abilities allowed me to meet other Chinese/Taiwanese people living and working in Japan. Because of that, by the time I left Japan, I'd also grown proud of my own Chinese heritage.

In Ireland, my Asian heritage and study abroad experience came into play again, not so much because people assumed that I wasn't American (my nationality wasn't questioned—it actually became a good icebreaker when I spoke with Irish people), but because a lot of my time was spent synthesizing the similarities and differences among the three-ish cultures I was interacting with at the time: Irish, American, and Japanese (and to some extent, Chinese). The question I realized I was asking myself was "What is universal among these peoples?", and it's a question I'm still working on answering even now, but in doing so, I've found that I've started thinking about the world in a more interconnected way.

Has studying abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path? If so, how?

Studying abroad has definitely reinforced my desire to work in a diverse and multicultural setting, and I'd love to be able to travel or live abroad as part of my career. I still want to become a translator, though I feel that my path to getting there has more options to choose from now.

What experiences or skills gained from studying abroad continue to influence your life now? 

I've developed a greater appreciation for understanding the context of various historical situations that influence contemporary current events, and I try harder to understand all sides of a story, not just one perspective. The languages that I studied while abroad still continue to be integral to my personal goals and interests, as well as the strategies I learned from meeting new people in different cultural contexts. Overall, I would say that I've become a more flexibly-minded person, and I hope to continue to develop a more international worldview in the future.

In one sentence, tell students who identify similarly why studying abroad is a good idea, particularly for them. 

It can be challenging to get out of your comfort zone, experience new cultures and worldviews and shift your own perspective of the world, society, and life in general, but it's all worth it--and the experiences you'll have afterward are stories you'll be telling for years afterward. 

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

It can be daunting to face the study abroad process, and it may feel like there are a lot of roadblocks and obstacles to overcome, but it's possible to do so. There are more and more opportunities to go abroad and resources to help you get there--so don't give up! All the work you put in will pay off!

Want to find out more about Eunice? Read about how she examined her identity while abroad.

What words would you use to describe your identity/identities?

Motivated, adventure seeking, loving

What motivated you to choose to intern abroad?

At the time I needed internship experience, and I always wanted to study abroad. When the opportunity to intern abroad presented itself, I did everything in my power to take full advantage of the opportunity. One of the best decisions of my life.

When you interned abroad, did your identity(ies) influence your experience in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

Yes, being abroad allowed me to be more open to other cultures, languages, and food. I didn't know anything about Catalunya, and, obviously, it played a big role while I was there with all the protest and the overall political climate. Being in a business setting where Spanish is the primary language, helped me better communicate with my boss, CEOs, and other businesses. Finally, food. I was a picky eater before I went abroad. Living with a host family and trying traditional plates such as melon con jamón, you quickly grow to appreciate a traditional Spanish dish.

Has interning abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path? If so, how

Yes, it's paid dividends. I was able to land an internship with CBS Chicago as a sports intern as a direct result of interning abroad. When I applied to be an intern at CBS before interning abroad, I was denied because of my lack of experience. I completed an internship in the summer at Free Range Office as a content creator, and overseas I Interned with eStreams.tv as an eSports journalist. After returning home, I applied and earned my dream internship.

In one sentence, tell students who identify similarly why interning abroad is a good idea, particularly for them. 

Traveling is exercise for the soul.

What experiences or skills gained from interning abroad continue to influence your life now?

I'm now able to adapt to any situation. I arrived a day late for my program in Barcelona, and I knew that I would have to catch a bus from the city centre the next morning.  It was my first day, I was in a foreign country, I only had about four hours of sleep, and I had to search for people I had never seen in my life. It was weird, and a bit scary, but it forced me to adapt.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I'm grateful for the help I received during my search to study abroad, and I'm thankful for the friendships and connections as a result of interning abroad. One day I hope to steer students to a route that will benefit them for the rest of their life.

Read more from Christian about what it's like to intern abroad as a first-generation student.

What words would you use to describe your identity/identities?

I am a Black young man, who was originally born in Mozambique, but because of life, has lived in different places, so I guess that makes me an international student. I've lived in the U.S., South Africa, and Greece. My first language was actually Greek.

What motivated you to choose to study abroad?

At Rochester, for the International Relations major, it is a requirement to study abroad.  I tried to study abroad in the spring of 2017, but it didn't work out because my visa came late.  So I started thinking about alternative options and figured that I've been going to Cape Town since I was about 15 and really liked it.  Cape Town is cool.  Its a very chill city.  There is just this great vibe.  Before I applied to school in the U.S., I had the University of Cape Town, and the University of Pretoria, (another university in South Africa), in mind to go to school.  So I thought: "This young boy once dreamt of going to UCT, now I can go and study there for several months.  Dreams do come true! It's happening."

What experiences or skills gained from studying abroad continue to influence your life now?

I've traveled a lot; one thing that traveling has taught me is to go with a beginner's mindset and to think, "they're not weird; they are different." 

What are the benefits of study abroad vs. just visiting a location for vacation?

I think of it like this: when you're traveling on vacation, it's like you're simply saying "Hi" to that place; studying abroad is like going beyond the small talk and getting to know someone.  Studying abroad can help you foster connections and relationships.  For example, one of my professors in Cape Town wrote a recommendation for a summer internship for me. 

Would you encourage a student who identifies similarly to you to study abroad in Cape Town?

I definitely would advise a student of color to come to Cape Town, not only because I want to see the student having the best time, but because I know that we all belong in this space.  Not enough of us come to Cape Town; not enough of us study abroad.

What were some of your favorite things to do in Cape Town? 

Though I've been coming to Cape Town for years, I discovered a lot of new things, and for that, I'm quite thankful.  For example, we went to a rugby match, which I've never been interested in, but I really loved it.  It was amazing. I never would've gone on my own.  I also really enjoyed our cooking class in Bo-Kaap.  One thing I admired about my experience with IES Abroad in Cape Town, was that the staff was able to put together experiences within the program that exposed us to different facets of the city that were very bond-making and that catered to all tastes.  When I come back, I'll definitely do more of what I learned from this experience. 

When you studied abroad, did your experience influence your identity(ies) in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

Even though I've been to Cape Town before, I' never had the opportunity to talk to people my age, so this opportunity at the University in Cape Town, where I was surrounded by Cape Town students my own age, made me check my privilege. I made friends in class and would ask them how their weekends had gone and they would tell me that they were tired.  They would spend their weekends working like three shifts, and to me, that was shocking.  These students had almost a full-time job, while studying, and I was just there to have fun.  It made me realize that while I am not the most well-endowed person in the world, I should be grateful for what I have. My friends worked because they wanted to support their studies; they wanted to support their famillies.  Sometimes, they wouldn't be able to go out late because their younger siblings would come home from school and someone had to be there to take care of them. More than ever, I understand Cape Townians better, which is great because my best friend is from Cape Town, so I feel like I understand her better. 

What were race relations like in Cape Town? How did you deal with them?

They were challenging, but were still an opportunity for growth.  I remember one time, I was chatting with someone and heard them make a bad comment.  I told them that their comment was wrong, and they said, "I apologize, but you don't have to judge me." And I was like, "I'm not here to judge you.  I'm here to make you aware so that you don't repeat it with someone else." 

Sometimes, dealing with everything was tiring.  As a person of color, you will sometimes be sitting in a room where you are the only black person at the table, and I think we should be fine with that.  I think that someone needs to start sitting at the table, instead of serving it. I know talking to people about their comments can be problematic, but I don't back off and I don't walk away.  I go there and talk with people, and I encourage and chat with them because it's important.  

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

To people who are preparing to study abroad, or even just to travel, I'd encourage you to challenge your preconceptions. Challenge your mental models.  You'll hear a lot.  You'll see a lot. But what do you think; what's your opinion? Sometimes, we tend to take part in things when we don't even know what they are.  I think that one thing that I've thoroughly had to remind myself is that we are not perfect, we are human beings and human beings like routine.  However, people should remember that they shouldn't be going abroad to do more of what they are already doing at home.  Challenege yourself! Challenges are incredibly uncomfortable, but growth is not comfortable. Challenge your beliefs.  Challenege the way you've been socialized; the way you think—it'll make you a better person.  I, for one, understand my friends, other things, even race relations better. This is why studying abroad is definitely worth doing. 

I think differently of Cape Town now.  Cape Town is now home—as much as Johannesburg, Athens, Rochester, and Slovakia, and I can't wait to go back. 

What words would you use to describe your identity/identities?

By societal structures, I would identify as a heterosexual, African-American woman, who is led to help people. I get my joy from seeing other people have joy, so I think that is a large part of my identity. 

What motivated you to choose to study abroad?

I first started thinking about studying abroad in high school and knew that I wanted to do it in college.  I wanted to go to Italy or Spain, and it was a rude awakening when I realized that I couldn't speak the language, and so probably wouldn't be so successful in that.  What sold me on the Cape Town program was that it was the only program that my school offered that had a service component. I would get to work in the township and have a very hands-on service learning opportunity face to face, which I really wanted to do since it's what I do in Miami.  I've wanted to go abroad for years, and I wanted to do it in a mission-trip way or with a church, but studying abroad meant I could be immersed in another culture was a good idea to me.  I went to London last year with my school, and I realized that this was nothing too different from America and I wanted something more foreign—something different. I felt that I would get to Europe at some point in my life, but Africa, I just wanted to check that off. 

When you studied abroad, did your experience influence your identity(ies) in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

Yes, I think it's been flipped on its head.  I think, specifically with my racial identity.  Being African-American in the United States. I just accepted that label without much more digging or much more wondering, but coming here, I realized that African-American is not really specific at all.  Here, people can identify themselves not just as Black or African.  It's I'm Xhosa, or I'm Zulu--people can trace back to the exact tribe, the exact language that their ancestors spoke, the exact soil that they stood on.  I think that it's been really heartwrenching for me because I realized that all of that was lost for me and other Black Americans with the slave trade, and that's why our identity stops at "I'm black, and I'm from Georgia," but, that's not our ancestor's soil; that's not really where we come from, and realizing that my racial identity isn't what I thought it was. It has been a process for me to come to realize that I don't have this part of myself that a lot of other black people I'm meeting in Africa have. 

How are you rectifying the realization about how you perceive your identity?

I don't think that there's really a way for you to rectify it.  I think being aware of it is a much bigger step than most Black Americans have taken.  Most Black Americans don't even know that something like that is missing from their identity—it's so generational at this point. People can trace as far back as maybe their great-grandmother who was a slave, but that's it, and people don't realize that that's not normal.  I think that just by coming here and realizing that it's not normal, is a big step.  Going further, it's just something that I have to accept was part of colonization and the slave trade.  My ancestor's plight was slavery; my plight is not knowing who I am.

How did you interact with the community within your service-learning placement?

My placement was at Chaka Education and its through UCT. We go into the townships and work with kids after school.  We teach them math, literacy, and manners. We teach them whatever we can before their attention span runs out.  Through that, I've worked with two different programs, in two different townships.  One is Manenburg, which is a Coloured township, and I also work in N'yongo, which is a Black township.  

What are the differences that you see, as an African-American abroad, between the Coloured township and the Black township? 

The differences are jarring. I started at the black township first, and I noticed that on the way, most of the townships were shacks and just destitute poverty.  When Americans think 'Africa,' N'yongo is along the lines of what probably comes to mind.  At the schools, a lot of the kids didn't have shoes.  A lot of them have physical indications that they're not living in the best health conditions, like rashes, things growing on them-- it's just clear that the conditions that they're living in aren't livable, vs. Manenburg, which is poverty, yes, but it's a different type of poverty.  When you think of your low-income American ghetto, that's Manenburg; It is like the Projects. 

Some of the kids didn't have shoes, but I think it was by choice (they took their shoes off to run around, things like that). You can just see the difference in the way that they're kept and the surrounding area.  Manenburg is also gang-ridden and drug-ridden, so it has its issues. But at first glance you can tell that the Coloured township seems to have more privilege there vs. the Black township.  Both are poor, but, to me, there are obvious levels to it.

How did you feel about using the word 'Coloured'? 

It's a cultural difference, and it took a while for me to get used to.  When I was first looking into the program, and someone from South Africa came to talk to us about the program, he used the word 'coloured' and I almost re-thought my whole idea to go.  I was thinking, what kind of race-relations do they have? But, it's a racial group here and they self-identify proudly as Coloured.  That's something I've gotten used to saying because that is how they identify.  Coloured means lighter skinned black people or mixed-race people.  Or like, Malaysian culture, a lot of them are Muslim--they have their own culture here, so it's not like the Jim-Crow South colored/white situation, it's different.

Can you give us a summary of what race-relations look like in Cape Town?

If I could put it in one word, I would say "blunt." In America, people try to hide from conversations about race—it's taboo. you can't identify somebody by their color. If I said, "the black girl" or "the white girl," people would be offended, but that isn't what they do here.  Race is not something they shy away from here, even if it makes a space uncomfortable, which I respect.  I've been in several situations where white people and black people have said things to me that were jarring. They are very blunt on how they feel about another race, or stereotypes on another race.  I think that the fact that they are willing to talk about those things, even if it's in a way that everyone won't agree with is so much more progressive than America> To me, it also seems more productive because at least if people are talking about it, then that creates a space for discourse.  For example, if I don't know that you're thinking a racist thought, then I can't correct you on it, or try to make you see it in a different way, but if you say that out loud, I can disagree with you and start a conversation, which is what I've been doing, and it's refreshing. To answer the original question, race relations here are tense.  Apartheid's wounds are very fresh and still kind of open.  There's a lot of anger between the races, but as I said, the fact that they talk about it, makes me feel like it's going to get better.

Has studying abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path? If so, how?

Studying abroad has inspired me to not just go straight into the workforce. I think I'm going to apply for Fulbright so that I can go somewhere else and do the same kind of work. That's the biggest thing.  It's expanded my horizons on thinking about post-grad opportunities, because before studying abroad, I was just going to work at a small market T.V. station right away and be miserable for a couple of years, before trying to work my way up.  But, once you're in that field, you're in it--you're not going abroad anywhere.  It's inspired me to take my time, soak in more experiences and travel more while I can and then go into the workforce.  Also, it made me think about how I can tell stories, not just domestically or from a Western perspective, but it made me have a thirst for telling stories from other places too.  It showed me that the world is a lot bigger than the States. There are a lot more stories out there that need to be heard. I never thought about international journalism, but I'm open to it now. 

What were your takeaways from your study abroad experience?

First, I feel like Americans do not realize how privileged we are.  I feel like a lot of people back home really need a wake-up call.  The types of poverty I've seen here, are the types of poverty I've never seen in my life and it made me put things in perspective because the kids that I work with are some of the happiest kids that I've ever seen, but are also some of the poorest.

It makes me ask myself what I'm complaining about.  It makes you really think about yourself and how you appreciate what you have or don't appreciate what you have. It's a lot of different things; even the language situation here has made me realize how self-centered the West is. People here know 4-5 languages, and I can barely speak Spanish, and that's something I need to speak as its part of my heritage.  I feel like studying abroad has taught me that I need to expand a little bit more.  From the school perspective, I'm much more grateful for the University of Miami, having now experienced a different type of school system.  I have a strong appreciation now for the education that I have in the United States and it's such a privilege. 

What advice would you give to students who identify similarly to you about studying abroad?

Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.  There's going to be a lot of uncomfortable conversations that are going to happen, and some of it will be directed towards you.  You're going to start to view your privilege in a way that you never have before, but it will be eye-opening.  Don't run away from that.  Erase it and see how you can be part of a change and take it back home.  Your identity is going to be challenged and its important to open yourself to people.  

What are you doing today?

Today, I am a 2020 Teach for America Houston corps member! Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, I was selected as a fellow for the Princeton in Africa Fellowship Program. Additionally, I was accepted into two graduate school programs; The Ohio State University and Columbia University.

What words would you use to describe your identity/identities? 

Some words I would use to describe my identity are Black, Black American, Black Man, Man of God, visionary, first-generation graduate, and optimist. 

What motivated you to choose to study abroad?

I was motivated to study abroad due to my interest in leaving the country since I was younger. I always had an interest in travel and exploration. Upon my enrollment at Howard University, my goal freshman year was to study abroad in an African country. Ultimately, my combined interests in African Affairs and travel motivated me to study abroad.

What experiences or skills gained from studying abroad continue to influence your life now?

My ability to adapt, cultural immersion, intercultural communication, ability to handle ambiguity, and research skills continue to influence my life now. In addition to skills, I would love to touch upon some experiences that continue to influence my life now. First, the tour of the Langa Township had a tremendous impact on me. My service learning initiative also continues to influence my life now. Furthermore, my educational experience at the University of Cape Town and hike to the top of Table Mountain continue to influence my life now. I had so many rich experiences from start to finish, and I am filled with gratitude when I reflect on them.

What are the benefits of study abroad vs. just visiting a location for vacation? 

I think of it like this: when you're traveling on vacation, it's like you're simply saying "Hi" to that place; studying abroad is like going beyond the small talk and getting to know someone. Studying abroad can help you foster connections and relationships. For example, one of my professors in Cape Town wrote a recommendation for a summer internship for me. 

What are the benefits of study abroad vs. just visiting a location for vacation? 

I think of it like this: when you're traveling on vacation, it's like you're simply saying "Hi" to that place; studying abroad is like going beyond the small talk and getting to know someone. Studying abroad can help you foster connections and relationships. For example, one of my professors in Cape Town wrote a recommendation for a summer internship for me. 

When you studied abroad, did your experience influence your identity(ies) in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

My identities influenced my study abroad experience both significantly and surprisingly. I would say my identities influenced my experience significantly because the people I met were genuinely interested in me as an individual and my past experiences prior to my arrival in Cape Town, in addition to my overall goals in life. Furthermore, I remember being surprised while sitting in my philosophy class where everyone was engaged in open discussion about race and racism. I remember volunteering to speak and I noticed how the other students were interested in my perspective. I had never really experienced something of this sort in America outside of my experience at Howard University, which is a prestigious Historically Black University (HBCU) located in the heart of Washington, D.C.

And vice versa, when you studied/interned abroad, did your experience influence your identity(ies) in significant and/or surprising ways? If so, how?

I think my experience abroad influenced my identities with regard to my reflection about my career interests, meaning of life, and an emphasis on personal goals instead of professional goals. Studying abroad was such an excellent time to dive into deep reflection, and new realizations of the world around me.

In one sentence, tell students who identify similarly why studying/interning abroad is a good idea, particularly for them.

Studying abroad is an opportunity you do not want to miss out on because it will open your eyes to a "new world" literally, and you will undergo tremendous growth in every aspect of life whether its spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically, or intellectually.

Has studying/interning abroad impacted your educational and/or professional aspirations or path? If so, how?

Yes, studying abroad has impacted my educational and professional aspirations. Prior to studying abroad I had an interest in urban education, and upon the end of my experience I developed an interest in international education! Additionally, studying abroad has influenced my decision to apply for PhD programs abroad. It is truly amazing to observe and feel how my experience has altered some of my future goals. Lastly, studying abroad influenced my interest in starting a business with an international perspective in mind.

Share one of your favorite memories from your time abroad.

There are so many to name! However, one of my many favorite memories would have to be my participation in my service-learning assignment.

Is there anything else you'd like to share? 

The only additional thing I would love to share is that studying abroad has had a lasting impact on my life, and everyday since my return to the United States I have thought about my experiences in South Africa. This was a truly a time I could relive over and over again without any hesitation.

Want to hear more from Ameer? Be sure to check out his IES Abroad blog from his time in Cape Town!