Taking Politics of Developing World has been one of the most enjoyable thing I have done in my first semester of freshmen year. Professor Kurtz has truly challenged everyone in my class to think beyond the surface. Going from the ISI growth model in Latin America to the export-led growth model in South Korea, I learned a lot about how different factors in history affected the current conditions in these countries. Making the right economic decision is not the only factor towards prosperity because political freedom or constraints also make a tremendous condition. So for anyone who wants to take a political science class, take 3220 Politics of Developing World.

guo.889.polisci3220.pdf

As a member of Asian Business Student Association, I have really enjoyed participating in many events that ABSA has coordinated. Diwali and the Chinese New Year Celebration have truly let me experience Asian culture to another new level. During the Diwali event, I got my very first henna on my hand and I fell in love with all the lovely designs! Meanwhile, the Chinese New Year Celebration pulled me closer to my Chinese culture and gave me my very first lion dance. I had never seen a lion dance or wushu so it was an eye-opening experience. Thank you so much ABSA!

I am really thankful for the Japanese Student Association for planning this incredible event. As an Asian fanatic, it was really heartwarming and enlightening to be part of this experience. The Japanese Spring Festival truly illustrated the beauty of Japanese culture with performances such the traditional fish dance, modern pop dance, and J pop singing. Meanwhile, there were many activity booths that further accentuate the Japanese cultures. My personal favorite activities were the Kimono photo shoot, tea ceremony,and calligraphy. It was the first time in my life that I got to wear a kimono, so it was a dream come true because I have always wanted to try on traditional Asian costumes. Moreover, I had a fantastic time practicing calligraphy and messing up characters! As for the tea ceremony, I really enjoyed this graceful and delicate presentation because it was relaxing and calming.

Child Mortality-open link

Through this UN Millennium Goal Project, I definitely have learned a lot about the major progress UN and the world have done to improve living conditions across the globe. Honestly, before this project, I had no idea that the 8 millennium goals existed. Obviously, I knew many people in the world live in really poor conditions and we, Americans, are the lucky ones who use up so much resources while we only constitute a small part of the world population.  To put it in such perspective, I am really glad that the international community is doing something to help combat child mortality and diseases, to spread education, and etc.

My UN Millennium Goal was child mortality. As the above presentation shows, child mortality has significantly decreased over the years through initiatives implemented by the UN and other organizations across the world. Preventive measures include mosquito nets, vaccines, child care education and etc. Overall, cooperation among health care manufactures, providers, and governments has dramatically provided low cost and wide-spread health service to many people. So, it is possible to better human conditions through diplomacy and negotiations.