During our Multicultural Histories and Legacies experience we traveled to London and Rome. The purpose of these destinations was to learn about the cultural backgrounds that make up these diverse and historic locations. Through visiting these ancient cities, we could witness first-hand how different cultures and religions shaped the cities and the overall progression of the region. In both London and Rome, we could learn about the diverse people and regions through visiting different ancient sites and religious buildings. Influences from all over the world contributed into making London and Rome into the economic and cultural powerhouses they are today.
During our time in both places we had meetings with people of all different backgrounds and religions whom all spoke about how their specific culture influenced the history in each city. Even our tours guides were often locals or had a strong attachment to the city they were explaining. This all made my abroad experience unique and helped me to immerse myself in the culture of London and Rome. By having the detailed tours of each city and interacting with all the different cultures and members of society, it helped to connect the different cultures with their contribution to the city’s history.
One of the biggest things I learned while abroad was the importance of being able to leave your comfort zone so that you can get the most out of every experience. During my abroad experience in London in Rome I put myself out of my comfort zone multiple times to talk to tour guides and even locals. This helped me to learn more about their culture and the people that make up the cities I was living in for a month. By doing these outgoing acts, I made my trip a very memorable experience filled with interesting conversations from soccer to crumbling economies of Britain and Italy. This incredible journey would not have been possible if I didn’t go out my way to meet people and create memorable experiences. This whole abroad trip made me realize the importance being a yes man and going outside of your comfort zone to make the most out of once in a lifetime experience.
My abroad experience not only helped me to appreciate leaving my comfort zone but also showed me that I am capable of living and surviving abroad. This trip made me feel more comfortable communicating with people of all different backgrounds. During our time abroad, we had discussions with people of all different religions and ethnicities and even visited sites like the Great Mosque, the Vatican and a Hindu Temple. We interact with people such as Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Italians, British and Indians. Through this abroad experience, we had the opportunity interact with people and religions we don’t normally experience but exist all over the globe, not just Europe. This whole experience help me feel the similarities and interconnectedness between all of humankind. We all aren’t very different from each other so I feel more comfortable talking with people that are different than myself more than ever now.
This education abroad experience helped me realize that I am willing to work or live abroad in a major commercial center like London or Rome. Also, this experience helped me to realize that I would not struggle to be independent living in another country outside of US. This is a big deal because now I know that I would feel comfortable to potentially pursue jobs outside America. This trip also made me realize how lucky and privileged I am to speak English and be a white American male even abroad. Speaking English was crucial to my survival in Rome because many Italians had a baseline in English, so therefore I didn’t need to know Italian to get by. Also, being a white English male meant I didn’t experienced any racism or sexual harassment and it also kept me out of any awkward situations that might have occurred between my myself and law enforcement. Now that I have recognized my privilege of being a white English speaking male, I will try not abuse it and rather I will try to be equally accommodating and caring for people that don’t share the same privilege as myself
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