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The strength of human connections, especially across borders, is an exceptionally beautiful way to make the world a better place. Since studying international affairs and environmental studies in Washington, DC, I have grown to appreciate the connections I make with diverse communities. I have recognized the importance of striking up a conversation, even with strangers, because all too often, people become so caught up in their own worlds that they forget to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.
I believe each individual has a unique “big picture” which is continuously shaped by new experiences. My own big picture has been influenced greatly by my Hungarian immigrant parents, my love for long road trips, and my community service projects in the Rocky Mountains as well as in DC. However, my perspective is limited, and I am itching with wanderlust to expand my big picture.
In order to start this expansion, I will begin my cultural immersion in Santiago, Chile by listening. Listening will be key to accomplish my two underlying, interconnected goals. The first, a more personal goal, is to become fluent in Spanish, my third language. I have been learning Spanish for over five years, but school hasn’t been enough for me to achieve the fluid communication which I seek. My second goal has the larger aim of bringing our vast world a little closer together: it is to make as many significant connections as I can with people I meet.
There are many cultural elements I already anticipate on experiencing while I am in Chile. Some are good, like the exquisite cuisine, breathtaking scenery, and lively dancing. Others may be less pleasant, like the air and water pollution and deeply rooted machismo beliefs. I can learn from the countless other experiences I may have, whether they are delightful or disturbing. A particular topic I hope to explore more deeply while abroad is environmentalism, specifically sustainability, because I am curious about Latin America’s approach to mitigate the extremes that come with climate change.
For my Sustainability Minor, I am conducting research on how countries around the world are maintaining resilient energy sources to meet the needs of their people. While in South America, I plan to engage with locals to see firsthand what they believe their country or community is doing to ensure that energy is available, even in times of disasters. With the new information I learn, I can significantly enhance my research and share it with my university and anyone else who is interested.
If I successfully achieve my underlying goals, as well as my research goal, I will have gained many new perspectives that I can share with my communities in the US. What I am perhaps most excited about is the prospect of me communicating with immigrants to help them. While I love speaking Hungarian, my knowledge of Spanish will be better utilized in both Denver and in DC, where there are large Spanish-speaking communities.
I know my study abroad will likely teach me more than I can list in this scholarship essay, including unexpected and even unimaginable lessons. No matter what experiences I will have, I look forward to broadening my perspective of the world and expanding my own big picture.
