“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” Saint. Augustine

Morocco

In the summer of 2018, I chose to participate in an International Study Abroad  program and study for six weeks in Meknes, Morocco. Meknes is known for its imperial past, with remnants including Bab Mansour, a huge gate with arches and mosaic tiling. The gate leads into the former imperial city. The Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail, who made the city his capital in the 17th century, has courtyards and fountains. To the south, ruined Heri es-Souani is a vast structure once used as stables and for food storage. Meknes is a less populated city with close ties to ancient Moroccan culture. Therefore, I could not have found a more perfect place to study my minor, French. During my studies, I took two courses: Advanced French 3 and Peace and Conflict Resolution. My French course explicitly focused on formal French and grammar improvement while my Peace and Conflict Resolution course focused on global issues in the Middle East. Being able to debate on solutions for Israel and Palestine enhanced my knowledge about the long conflict between the two nations. I was able to experience a political point of view that was different from most Americans. I also had the opportunity to travel throughout Morocco to Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Assilah, Fez, Voulubilis, and Tangier. I was able to learn more about each of the Moroccan cities that I visited and their impact on society. Visiting Morocco was definitely a life changing experience and became my first step into exploring more parts of the world. 
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National Student Exchange

 In my life I strive to continue to grow and evolve in all areas. Through school, working, staying healthy, and enjoying all that Oregon has to offer, I discovered new things about my environment and myself that contribute to my personal and professional development.  I decided to participate in the National Student Exchange (NSE) at Florida International University for its diverse Caribbean cultures and strong International Business Program. I expected some challenges on the exchange with a  new academic setting, a new perspective, and an environment quite different from the one at Western Oregon University. Miami is very different from Monmouth. I took part in NSE to test whether I was fully ready to transfer out of state. Studying at FIU provided me with a different classroom atmosphere. Majoring in a competitive field requires the best educators and knowledge one can get. During my exchange, I became a member of the National Student Exchange Club, African Student Organization, Le Circle Francais, and Haitian Student Organization. Getting involved on campus, discovering new things about Miami, and the friendships I made was what made my journey fulfilling. 

Israel and Palestine

By spending ten days in Israel and Palestine, I have come to understand that the decision is not about whether you are pro- Israel or pro-Palestine. It is about finding solutions to bring peace between both nations. After taking a course in Morocco to expand my knowledge on the conflict, this trip provided me with more insight. I was able to see and experience Israeli and Palestinian culture without distractions. Unfortunately, in the United States, we make too many of our decisions based on what the media presents us with without questioning and researching ourselves. We just believe what we are told. It is easy to sit at home and pick sides without having real knowledge about the conflict. I do not just believe what I am told - I dig deeper. I enjoy learning and questioning the messages that I am being sent. This is what I have learned: The conflict between these nations is something that is repeated in many parts of the world. My wish for both sovereign states is to establish some sort of agreement that takes away borders, provides Palestine with what they need, and provides a safety net for Israel. I was in Kibbutz, Israel and a day later a rocket was fired from Gaza. This is one of the longest conflicts in history - it is not new. Being in Israel was not the same as the media coverage makes it seem. Part of the trip I found myself in a surreal moment, because this is the place I was told was a war zone, yet it was peaceful. I enjoyed the time I spent with people from both nations, meeting with foreign affairs representatives and hearing their stands on the issues. Visiting the West Bank and meeting with Palestinian leader was a very powerful experience. Both parties want peace, but communication and trust just is not there. My advice to my fellow Americans is this: this is not about being pro-Palestine or pro-Israel. Rather, it is about being a mediator and being PRO PEACE and SAFETY for everyone involved. It was truly an amazing trip to help one expand their knowledge and think like a leader. I will be forever grateful to have been chosen.