A view of Almaty from Kok Tobe Park.

For my STEP Signature Project, I completed American Councils’ Advanced Russian Language and Area Studies (RLASP) summer program in Almaty, Kazakhstan. While there, I studied fourth-year Russian and Central Asian politics.

My trip to Kazakhstan was my first time outside of North America. Though I’ve spent five years studying Russian language and post-Soviet culture in general, I’d never had the opportunity to visit a Russian-speaking country before, let alone one so far away from home. The process of preparing for the program involved a lot of moving parts: I had to submit extensive medical records, apply for a Kazakh visa, and get my first passport. Additionally, the American sense of urgency is nowhere to be found in post-Soviet countries, so there was a lot of waiting involved as everything fell into place for the summer. The pre-program preparation taught me how to manage my time and be assertive – it turns out doctors’ offices and banks are not always fantastic at listening to you the first time – as well as how to be patient in the face of delays.

In terms of interpersonal relationships, I experienced very little culture shock while I was in Kazakhstan. Years of language study and interactions with faculty and graduate students from all parts of the world had prepared me for Kazakh directness and sincerity, which I found to be pleasant and make communication easier. However, I did experience lifestyle and environment-related culture shock. To an American who grew up in Midwestern suburbs, everything in Kazakhstan seems relatively small! Furthermore, there are notable differences in infrastructure: WiFi and cellular data are not always reliable, air conditioning remains sparse, and roads and sidewalks are often uneven and littered with electric scooters. As such, I always felt a bit cramped and uncomfortable in Almaty – the new circumstances made me hyper-aware of where my body was in relation to other people, and I was forced to be present. In retrospect, this was a welcome change. I realized that I can live an incredibly fulfilling life without many American material comforts, and that intensely packed cities have a way of making one feel less alone. Little by little, I was able to replace my homesickness with an appreciation for where I was in the present moment, regardless of the circumstances.

My relationship with my host mom was the beating heart of my time in Kazakhstan. My host family situation was rather unique – my host mom was a first-time host parent, a retiree, lived in a house (a rarity for Almaty), and had no immediate family within the country. Due to her free time and the lack of anyone else in the house, we were able to form a close connection. Though we had a plethora of varied experiences together, my favorite memories with her are the conversations we’d have over dinner. Almost every other dinner conversation we had somehow turned into a discussion of the Soviet Union and how things were simpler then. I had the privilege of eating home-cooked meals at her lemon-yellow dining table and hearing all kinds of stories about her life – how she grew up, how she’d raised her children, what advice she had for me as a young woman. These discussions served as valuable reminders to zoom out, value my life exactly as it is, and live in the present moment.

In addition to my relationship with my host mom, I was fortunate enough to have an in-country conversation partner around my age during my time in Kazakhstan. My busy class schedule meant that I couldn’t meet up with her as often as I liked, but whenever we got to spend time together, it was as if we’d never been apart. Though we were different in nearly every conceivable way, our status as girls bonded us, and we were able to laugh and joke and get ice cream together without it being awkward. It was comforting to have a female friend my age in Kazakhstan who wasn’t American – we had far more in common than an American might assume, and just enough differences to ask each other existential questions in the middle of parks.

My program featured a lot of excursions, but my favorite of all of them was our excursion to Lake Issyk. Lake Issyk is nestled in the mountains, and it takes two hours to get there from Almaty by car. By the time you’re a half hour out from the lake, cell service is nonexistent. My cohort went there on a particularly drizzly day, the gray sky gradually soaking our hoodies and backpacks. This excursion happened when I was going through a particularly rough bout of stress and homesickness. When our group finally reached the lake, I decided to hike a bit further and sit on a mossy rock with nothing but my crab-flavored potato chips and my thoughts. At the risk of sounding like Thoreau, those few hours in nature were quite healing. I’d been so used to constantly working and rushing around that I was unsure to do with my time alone in the woods. However, as the minutes went by, the drizzle brought me back to life.

My time in Kazakhstan can be quantified in any number of ways: bags of crab-flavored chips eaten, oral proficiency interview results, homework assignments submitted, sunburns gotten, and so on. However, my favorite way of reflecting on this summer is by measuring how much I think about Kazakhstan while back in the United States. This summer improved my Russian skills in tangible ways – ways that show up in the classroom, in conversation with graduate students, and in text-based chats with friends. My outlook on the world has become more balanced, optimistic, and rooted in actions rather than ideas. I have learned what does and does not matter to me, I have learned to be more receptive. I returned to the United States with an even broader perspective than before.

Studying abroad is a rite of passage for every foreign language student, and my experience would not be possible without STEP. I’m grateful to Ohio State for its continued support of this program – every student deserves the opportunity to have illuminating new experiences.

For my STEP signature project, I spent roughly six weeks immersed in Spanish culture. I lived with a Spanish host family and attended classes at a Spanish university. I also explored cultural sites around Spain such as the cave of the Soplao and the aqueduct of Segovia. 

My study abroad taught me self-reliance and adaptability. During a study abroad, you live in a foreign country without the support of friends and family. Although I have technically been an adult for several years now, in America I live fifteen minutes away from my family and can easily get help when I need it. 

While abroad, I had the support of my program, but in my day-to-day life I was responsible for myself. It was also the longest time that I had been away from home, and the furthest I have traveled. I study at the Mansfield branch of Ohio State, so I have never even lived outside of my hometown. Studying abroad showed me that I can manage new environments and uncomfortable situations by myself.

My trip to Spain was my first time flying internationally by myself. I had to navigate the airport and get to my gate on time. I also had to navigate a foreign airport when I arrived. The Madrid-Barajas airport is a large international airport. I was met there by one of the program leads, however, there were two designated pickup times and a failure to be at the meeting spot meant you would be responsible for reaching the hotel on your own. At the conclusion of the program, I had to make my own travel arrangements (including a hotel reservation and bus ticket) to reach the airport for my trip home. This was my first time making bookings by myself and planning my own itinerary. 

While in Spain I became sick and needed to see a doctor. I got a referral from my program and he wrote me a prescription. I had to find a pharmacy and get my prescription filled. In the U.S., this is something that I can manage but don’t need to. When my mom gets my little sister’s medication she picks up mine too. Spanish pharmacies are a bit different from American ones- you are responsible for bringing the prescription (on paper) to the pharmacy yourself. At home, my doctor sends the medications to the pharmacy online.

When I arrived in Salamanca, we were given one tour and shown the way to the Plaza Mayor. After that, I had to find my way by myself. For the first couple of weeks, every time I needed to go somewhere it was an ordeal. Spanish traffic systems are different to American ones. There are a lot of traffic circles and small side streets, and everything is so old that sometimes google maps doesn’t work. While some restaurants and shops in Spain have websites, they don’t have order online options like in the states. If I wanted to buy something or eat at a restaurant I had to get myself there, and then either find the item or order it. Even everyday things like buying a snack from the grocery store could be challenging because so many of their systems are set up differently. 

One other difference is the Spanish attitude about adulthood. In Spain, when you turn eighteen you are legally an adult and people treat you like one. In the U.S., eighteen-year-olds are technically adults but aren’t given the same responsibilities and privileges. Young adults in Spain have more freedom and are used to handling things themselves. On our second day in Spain, our program took us into the city center of Madrid and left us there. At the end of our two-hour tour, they said ‘adios’ and left, which we weren’t expecting. Our hotel was not in the city center and we needed to get back. It was especially difficult for me because I haven’t had to use public transportation before. I grew up in a rural town and I live in that same rural town. I drive everywhere. Being abroad forced me to adapt to these situations. If I didn’t get myself home, I wouldn’t get home, so I had to learn how to use their transportation systems. 

Becoming more self-reliant is important for me because I can’t stay at the branch forever. Even if I manage to stay here for my entire bachelor’s degree, I will need to go elsewhere for graduate school. I was worried that because I’ve only ever lived at home I wouldn’t be able to handle living on a different campus, but now that I’ve done it in Spain I know it will be much easier in the U.S.        

My STEP signature project was a month-long study abroad trip titled, Field Research Methods for Politics and Development in Africa. During the course we learned about social science research methodologies used to understand political and development outcomes in Malawi, and in Africa more broadly. Throughout the trip we attended class sessions with guest lecturers from the University of Malawi, engaged in discussions with local experts, and visited historical and cultural sites. 

This study abroad trip was my first time leaving the United States. It was also my first time learning how a local government operates first hand. In the US, we often hear about government inefficiencies or bloated bureaucracies that slow down the delivery of public services and frustrate everyday Americans. Even in the upcoming elections this fall, issues of corruption, government transparency, and simple decency are front and center. While I knew that these issues were not confined only to our borders, they, at the same time, also seemed uniquely American. Before leaving the US, I believed that through campaigning for candidates, protesting for causes, and engaging with local, state, or the federal government to advocate change, these issues could be remedied. I applied these thoughts outside of an American context, believing that they could also be successful in democracies around the world. After traveling to Malawi, however, I’ve found that advocating for reform or even demanding basic public services is incredibly challenging for most citizens in Malawi. Campaigning for an opposition candidate can lead to political and social alienation, protesting can lead to detainment, and engaging with the local or federal government will often lead nowhere. To confront these challenges, I learned that it is not possible to tackle problems how someone would in the US. I found that, although democracies share similar roots, they are also rooted, individually, in the culture, history, and society of the countries where they take form, which must be accounted for.

For the majority of the trip, we stayed in Zomba, which is one of the four major cities in Malawi, and is in the southern region of the country. During our time there, we went on several trips to speak with local government experts in the city. One of these trips was at the Malawi City Council. In Malawi, city councils are divided into two wings, a technocratic wing, and an elected wing. The technocratic wing is staffed by individuals appointed by the federal government who complete bureaucratic tasks and implement policies enacted by the city councilors. The elected wing are filled by city councilors who are elected by the constituents within their district, and are tasked to vote on and enact policies. 

In one of our class sessions we discussed the intricacies of city councils in Malawi. In the Malawian Constitution, and further laws enacted in 1998 and 2016, respectively, Malawi has sought to embolden its local governments. The thought is that by empowering local governments,they will be more readily able to ascertain the needs of their constituents, offer local services more effectively, and promote increased democratic participation. Despite these goals, however, the federal government has refused to relinquish its control over the local councils. When they appoint technocrats, for example, they are typically the only educated members of a city council, and will often overtake the duties of elected members. The federal government also does not fully fund local councils, creating a disparity between what their constituents need and what they can accomplish. It is these issues that I hoped to ask and learn more about.

After our class session, we went to the Zomba City Council Offices, where we spoke to three members on the council. They were part of the technocratic wing of the council. During the discussion, the members explained the primary functions of city councils in Malawi and elaborated on the specific roles they perform in Zomba. As the discussion went on, the issue of underfunding caught my attention. The councilors explained that while Malawi law requires that 5% of central government expenditures go to local councils, the councils receive much left. When I asked if there is any formal mechanism to petition for more funding, they said they can only make a request to the government, but there is no enforcement mechanism to compel the central government to follow its law. Additionally, the councilors also mentioned that they often have to rely on funding from third-party organizations. I asked about how that process works and they told me that any funding received from these types of organizations must be approved and filtered through the central government. Upon reflection, it seemed obvious that the central government in Malawi was professing democratization and decentralization, but was afraid to relinquish control over local governments, largely for political reasons.

I learned that political dynamics focused on power and control are as persistent in Malawi as they are in the US. If these dynamics are to be examined and combatted, however, the response has to be situated within the context of the country being examined. After our meeting with the city council, we learned about how local chiefs and NGOs are an avenue for Malawians to express their complaints and can advocate for change on their behalf. Furthermore, we learned that ethnic cleavages, language disparities, and lack of access to resources, play a substantial role in Malawian political discourse. Although these problems may exist in every country, the specific role they plan depends on the cultural, historical, and social dynamics of that country. An evaluation of gun policy in the US for example, will be substantially different than one in Malawi, even if both countries faced the same problem, because of the role guns have in American political debate.

I want to have a job within the federal government, which may mean I have to interact with state or local governments to achieve shared goals and efficient services. Learning more about how the central and local governments operate in Malawi has shown me that although countries may experience similar issues, such as corruption, violence, government transparency, etc., they cannot be solved through blanket solutions. Combating these problems requires understanding the culture, history, and social nuances of the countries being studied, and a commitment to create positive change. 

Sophie Schmidt

STEP Signature Project Reflection

For my STEP Signature Project, I studied abroad in Salamanca, Spain from June 27 to August 10, 2024 through the organization International Studies Abroad. During this time, I lived with a host family and another Ohio State student. I was enrolled in Spanish classes at the University of Salamanca alongside other international students, and participated in various excursions to other cities in Spain with my ISA group

My STEP experience studying abroad gave me a deeper appreciation for the art of learning languages. Even with the many resources available to me as a student of Ohio State and an international student of the University of Salamanca, there were still many challenges I had to face as a student learning a foreign language in a foreign country. I can’t imagine how difficult it must be to learn a new language in a foreign country without the resources I was lucky enough to have. This trip also showed me the many ways in which people connect to one another despite language and cultural differences. I made friends with people from all over Spain and Europe, and was shown that both our similarities and differences are equally important in how we relate and understand one another. This was definitely an experience of human kindness that has changed my worldview for the better. 

Prior to my STEP Signature Project I had never traveled outside of the United States. While I was excited to experience a new culture and see a new country, I didn’t know what to expect. I was worried language barriers would prevent me from making meaningful connections to people or hinder my ability to understand what was happening around me. My first week in Spain, it was definitely a challenge to have to rely on my limited Spanish speaking skills, and I was naturally nervous when conversing with native Spanish speakers. But as the days passed on and I had more practice speaking in and outside of the classroom, my trepidation started falling away and I stopped worrying about messing up or making mistakes. My teachers and the Spanish people I conversed with in my daily life extended me patience and kindness. They showed me that the process of learning a language is not perfect and looks different for everybody. 

One relationship that had a significant impact on my life was the one I formed with my host mom, Mila. Mila lives in an apartment close to the University of Salamanca and has a daughter and granddaughter who live in the United States. Every day Mila would make lunch and dinner for Laura and I, the other OSU student living with us. At meals we would talk about our different lives, cultures, countries, and anything that was on our minds. However, we could only communicate in Spanish as Mila does not speak English. This encouraged Laura and I to improve our Spanish conversation skills and learn how to be creative when we needed to communicate something that we didn’t have the words for. Mila always gave Laura and I a safe space to practice speaking Spanish and answered any questions we had about Spanish culture or the language. I was amazed by the generosity with which Mila opened her home for us and the understanding she gave us as we learned. My relationship with Mila has shown me that people do not have to speak the same language to have meaningful, long-lasting connections. 

Other relationships that greatly impacted me were the ones I formed in the classroom and on weekend excursions to other cities with my ISA group. At the University of Salamanca I met students from all over the world. It was fascinating to talk about the differences between our lives and countries, and also so much fun to discover our similarities. This trip gave me and the other international students a unique opportunity to bond with people of many diverse backgrounds through our shared experiences in Salamanca. Weekend excursions that my ISA group took to various cities in Spain also gave Ohio State students a special opportunity to connect through our shared adventures. Cities we visited include Toledo, Santander, and Segovia. From the University of Salamanca classrooms, to exploring the city of Salamanca and other cities in Spain, my study abroad experience gave me friends from all over the world that I know will continue to be a part of my life for a long time. 

The transformations I experienced during my STEP Signature Project are significant both for my personal and professional life. I learned that it is okay to make mistakes and that errors are an important part of any learning process. I’ve discovered things about my personal learning style that will help me be a better student moving forward. Most importantly, I am now less afraid to try new things and talk to new people; I’ve learned how to have confidence in myself when I am in a new situation. All of these lessons will help me lead a more enriching and genuine personal and professional life.

My STEP project was an education abroad through the Ohio State University, the Dresden Summer Language Program. In this program, I traveled with a group to Dresden, Germany, for two months during the summer to study German language and culture. This was accomplished through classes, excursions, and living in a major German cultural center.

I would say that my understanding of the world expanded from this project. This was my first time traveling to a country outside of the U.S., and it paid to be able to go somewhere where the people I talked to thought differently and had different values. Furthermore, it gave me a comparison to things that the U.S. does that countries besides the U.S. do not. It was transformative in that it strengthened my intercultural competence, but also in that i gave me a comparative lens through which I can understand my home country on a wider and more varied scale.

Several key experiences contributed to this transformation. One of the most impactful events was my interactions with German culture and language. Living in Dresden, I had to navigate daily life—whether shopping at local markets, using public transportation, or ordering food at restaurants—entirely in German. This constant practice both improved my language skills and boosted my confidence in speaking German. This helped me to break through the fear of making mistakes, which often held me back in a classroom setting.

Another critical aspect was the relationships I developed with both my peers and the local community. Interacting with native speakers helped me better understand the nuances of the language and culture. These conversations offered a deeper connection to the people and history of Dresden, something that textbooks couldn’t replicate. Additionally, bonding with other students in the program who shared similar goals provided a support system. We motivated each other, exchanged tips on language learning, and sharpened each other’s intercultural competence.

Lastly, the program’s structured activities, such as excursions to historically and culturally significant sites, reinforced the learning we were doing in the classroom. Visiting places like the Frauenkirche or the Zwinger Palace gave context to what I had studied about German history and culture, making it more concrete. These experiences reinforced my perspective, as I better understood the importance of understanding a country’s history and how it shapes the present. The combination of formal education and experiential learning led to a more comprehensive understanding of the German language and culture, which has certainly been transformative.

This transformation is significant in my life in varying ways. Academically, it pushed me toward a German minor or major. Personally, it expanded my understanding and perspective of the world and different cultures. Professionally, it improved my intercultural competence, a skill for life and the workplace. Ultimately, I think that it transformed my future and expanded my understanding of the world

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Link to blog 

The Dresden Summer Language Program was an eight week intensive language, culture, and history program. During the program I took language courses, went on weekly excursions, wrote two blogs weekly in German, lived in Dresden, and explored eastern Europe.

The Dresden Summer Language Program was my first time being in another country, so inherently I felt lost, in the sense that I knew very little yet I was excited. Since I had these feelings I worked extra hard at getting uncomfortable, trying new things, and reaching out to new people. This was a side of myself that I was unfamiliar with, but I quite liked it. It transformed me to have more courage and drive. Not only did the trip change the way I acted, but it changed the way I thought. I wouldn’t say I am a close minded person, but the trip enhanced and expanded my knowledge. Being in a whole different world and experiencing new cultures, caused me to ponder my past experiences and evaluate my perceptions. Taking a step back allowed me to better understand my own culture, the cultures of others and most importantly allow me to appreciate more.

Another drastic change was my relationship with the German language. I had studied German since high school, but never had I used it on a day to day basis to do daily tasks. Being in an environment that fostered my development of my language skills through my peers, courses, and academic work. As well as in an environment where I had reliance on the German language, expontientally transformed me. Looking back on the times I struggled to speak with others and the times I succeeded, makes me so grateful for language. I have so much praise for thoses who speak two languages fluently and more so to language itself.

One of the main reasons my language skills improved drastically was thanks to my peers. The program environment gave the opportunity to connect deeply with a small cohort of Ohio State students. The relationships I made with my peers are very valuable to me because of this I am grateful for having selected this program. My peers were thrown into the same situation and because of their bravery and kindness I was able to grow more than I could imagine. My peers promoted me to speak and were helpful in my learning, by pulling me into situations where I needed to speak and joining me on adventures through Germany to learn. The community created of like minded individuals persistent on the goal of academic intrigue, German language enhancement, and experiencing the world abroad was crucial in my development through the program.

The program offered weekly excursions, which were led by Dr. Spencer. A man who has extensive knowledge of Dresden and German history. His diligence and commitment to knowledge allowed me to learn so much about Germany. The exposure to these cultures was at first very scary, but through these excursions and the information provided by the program director my immersion was accelerated. This caused me to be more courageous and orient myself towards mindfulness. I was able to widen my perception of events from receiving so many differing perspectives. The travel throughout east Germany was eye opening, and without this I would not have gotten what I got from the program. I had more excitement for the unknown. Traveling and simultaneously learning furthered my understanding and development.

The everyday lifestyle was probably one of my favorite parts of the trip. Although I didn’t expect much to change, it was very different. I would use public transportation regularly and it became very normal to me to ride trams and trains. I had more appreciation for the everyday. When walking on the street I would stop to take a second look at things because of the minor differences from construction workers wearing polos and shorts to ample unique selections of bakegoods in the grocery. I would take photos of everything because I was so intrigued, whereas in the states I pass by because it was normal to me. The trip made me so much more appreciative of the things I experience in everyday life and the ability to live.

The changes I underwent are significant to my life because of how they made me grow. It is valuable to me to grow as much as I can and specifically grow through the experiences that the world has to offer. In the future I plan to accomplish goals outside of my comfort zone and this experience not only inspired me to be more courageous, but also seek a deeper understanding. For me this deeper understanding means reaching out on levels I hadn’t before and being mindful of what I have learned. I know this experience was beneficial and helped form me into the person I want to be as I pursue my academic and future goals.

For my STEP Signature Project, I traveled to India with Children Family Health International to shadow various physicians and advanced practitioners in different clinical settings. I observed practices in the Emergency/Cardiology Unit, Homeopathic Medicine, small rural clinics, and outreach healthcare programs.

Initially, I assumed that healthcare in India would be rigidly systematic due to its large population. However, my firsthand experience in clinical settings revealed that this was not the case. I soon realized that, similar to the United States, healthcare in India is delivered through various avenues, including hospitals, small clinics, and outreach groups. Additionally, the type of healthcare one receives affects the resources available and can significantly impact medical billing. By the end of the program, I gained a better understanding of how different healthcare systems are interconnected and how their respective resources and costs affect patients in a populous country.

The first clinical setting I encountered was a combined emergency and cardiology unit managed by a single physician, Dr. Sanjay Gandhi. The operation of his small hospital in Dehradun and the way healthcare was provided were the most similar to the hospitals in the United States that I was accustomed to. Unlike in the United States, where health insurance and premiums are commonly used to cover medical costs, the majority of healthcare in India does not rely on these systems. Instead, patients typically pay upfront before consultation. This approach helps accommodate the highly unequal income distribution, ensuring that even the poorest individuals can access healthcare. I experienced this system firsthand when I had to visit the emergency room near the end of my program for a bacterial infection. It was beneficial to avoid dealing with insurance companies, as all transactions could be completed with cash, saving time and streamlining the process. Another notable instance where the hospital aimed to reduce medical costs was the use of a reusable ECG machine with suction cups instead of disposable stickers. I found this particularly interesting because, in the United States, many resources are used only once.

Another meaningful experience was shadowing a small rural clinic in the village of Patti. Although we saw far fewer patients in the countryside, it was a valuable opportunity to better understand the backgrounds of many patients. Resources are scarce in this setting; testing and imaging are impossible unless patients are transferred to a larger facility. I wondered how effective a clinic of this size could be without the necessary investigative equipment and tests. The physician managing the clinic informed me that the majority of patients are not necessarily interested in investigating the root of their illness but rather focus on seeking symptom relief. I recall a particular patient with an itchy foot, which might have been related to his extensive history of smoking. After consulting with the physician, he was sent home with an itch cream without further investigation. To my surprise, the cream could potentially exacerbate itching with prolonged use, creating a cycle of symptom management. This issue is common among individuals with habits such as smoking, drinking, and frequent unprotected sex.

I spent the latter part of my program in New Delhi with an outreach health program called CanSupport. This program deploys teams composed of a nurse practitioner and a counselor throughout the city. We visited patients in their homes, provided new medications, checked on their physical, mental, and social well-being, distributed food rations, and assessed their need for additional assistance. Patients in this specific program either require minimal medical care, where routine hospital visits would be costly, or have chronic diseases and find comfort in receiving care at home. I found value in the impact that a small team of two can have on individuals who might otherwise struggle to access medical care. One particularly touching moment was when we visited a poor family in a dilapidated part of town. The father was suffering from a severe fungal infection in his left jaw, which had left the mandible exposed. He was the sole parent in the household, bedridden with multiple children relying on him. His eldest daughter, probably around ten years old, was taking care of him. When we arrived, the nurse practitioner cleaned and redressed his soiled handkerchief he used to cover his face with sterile bandages and applied antifungal powder to his wounds and around the exposed jaw. It was a heart-wrenching sight. This experience deeply affected me. It highlighted the stark disparities in healthcare access and the resilience of individuals who, despite their challenges, manage to care for their loved ones. Witnessing the dedication of the outreach team and the vulnerability of the patients deepened my understanding of the complexities of healthcare in India. I realized that beyond the systemic differences and logistical challenges, healthcare is deeply intertwined with social and economic factors.

The transformation I experienced during my STEP Signature Project in India has been profoundly significant for my personal and professional growth. Witnessing the diverse healthcare systems in action, from the structured environment of a small hospital in Dehradun to the resource-limited rural clinic in Patti, has deepened my understanding of the complexities and disparities within healthcare systems. These experiences have highlighted the importance of adaptability and empathy in delivering medical care, regardless of the resources available. Observing firsthand the impact of a small outreach team in New Delhi, and the touching moments of care provided to underserved individuals, underscored the value of compassionate, patient-centered approaches in healthcare.

This transformation is especially valuable as it aligns closely with my academic and professional aspirations in healthcare. The insights gained have reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in medicine with a focus on addressing healthcare disparities and improving access to care. Understanding the intersection of social, economic, and systemic factors in healthcare will guide my approach to patient care and influence my future goals of working in underserved communities. This experience has not only broadened my perspective but also strengthened my resolve to contribute meaningfully to the field of medicine, emphasizing the need for both systemic improvements and compassionate, individualized care.

STEP Reflection Image 1 STEP Reflection Image 2

For my STEP Signature Project I studied abroad at the University of Salamanca in Salamanca, Spain for six weeks. In addition to being enrolled in four classes, I had the opportunity to learn the history of and explore many famous and important cities, including Madrid, Toledo, and Segovia. I was also able to experience Spanish culture firsthand because I lived with a Spanish family who provided me with two authentic Spanish meals every day and I lived in and interacted with a Spanish community for six weeks, learning so much about Spanish culture that is only possible to learn through an experience like this.

Living abroad in Spain helped to develop my understanding of the world and challenged my assumptions about how other countries compared to the United States. Before my study abroad program, I idolized Spain and other Western European countries. I thought they were so much better than the U.S. because, from the outside, they seemed to have better politics, better public systems like transportation and healthcare, and so much more that I felt the U.S. lacked. I was used to living in the U.S. and experiencing first hand the issues of this country on a daily basis, and that clouded my view of it. Living abroad gave me the opportunity to see and experience the issues of other countries and realize that the United States isn’t unique in its problems and that other countries aren’t perfect. My experience living abroad was life changing and incredibly inspiring and helped me grow to appreciate my home country and to better understand the nuances of the world.

One of the experiences most influential to my change in attitude toward my home and my understanding of the complexities of our world were the protests in Barcelona against tourism. I didn’t experience one first hand, but seeing the coverage on Spanish news channels and hearing the discourse around the issue was very eye opening. I didn’t realize how much of an effect tourism has on daily life in Spain, nor how many different opinions there are about what the best solution is. Observing this helped me stop idolizing Spain and start seeing it more similarly to the U.S., a complex country full of many different people and ideas trying to work together to enact change for the betterment of the whole country. Seeing the complicated politics and hearing about the failings of the government helped me realize that the United States is not unique in its imperfectness and that made me feel less resentful about my home.

Another experience that helped me understand the world better was visiting the aqueducts in Segovia. They are truly a sight to behold and standing under them while learning about their history, their function and how they were built, made me appreciate humanity and our potential when we work together. This was something I experienced every time I got the opportunity to visit a historical building, which was often. Standing where other humans once stood, hundreds and even thousands of years before me, and marveling at the product of their labor which was still standing, and in some cases still operational, made me feel so connected to my humanity and to really appreciate and cherish that I was a person. It allowed me to forget my gripes with the world and reminded me of why I started fighting in the first place.

Speaking with my host family and other Spaniards allowed me to hear different points of view about both the United States and Spain. My host mother explained to me that utilities are very expensive in Spain compared to in the U.S., which shocked me. I have always thought of the U.S. as a very expensive place to live, so to learn that one of the main living expenses was more affordable than Spain was very surprising. She also said that clothing was cheaper in the U.S. and other Spaniards I talked to corroborated her claims. All of this led to a change in perspective and mindset for me. I was able to observe my country from a foreigner’s eyes and see things worth admiring that I was blind to before.

This change in perspective has greatly affected how I interact with the world. I now have a better understanding of our world’s nuances and complexities, and this allows me to have a well rounded foundation to continue my education from. I believe that having experiences different from the normal life you are used to is incredibly important to getting the most out of university education. When I begin my career as an interpreter, this will allow me to have the mindset necessary for interacting with many different types of people in many different situations, and will aid in my ability to empathize with and understand the people I will be working with, most of whom will be strangers to me.

1. Please provide a brief description of your STEP Signature Project. 

I completed a six-week program of superior level Spanish courses at the Universidad de Salamanca, focusing on business Spanish, grammar, and oral and written communication skills. During this time, I participated in various excursions to cities across Spain, including Madrid, Toledo, Segovia, and Santander, as well as a trip to Lisbon and Óbidos in Portugal. Additionally, I engaged in a variety of cultural activities, such as cooking classes, paddle boating, cathedral tours, and flamenco lessons.

2. What about your understanding of yourself, your assumptions, or your view of the world changed/transformed while completing your STEP Signature Project? 

Initially, I was puzzled by the directness and perceived lack of warmth from the Spanish people I encountered. However, as the weeks passed, I came to understand that this wasn’t a matter of unfriendliness but rather a different cultural approach to communication and interaction than what I was accustomed to in the U.S. My classes included students from all around the world, and through conversations with them, I discovered the richness of these cultural differences. This experience taught me to approach differences with curiosity rather than judgment, allowing me to appreciate the diversity of the world even more deeply and fueling my desire to explore it further.

3. What events, interactions, relationships, or activities during your STEP Signature Project led to the change/transformation that you discussed in #2, and how did those affect you? 

My professors at the Universidad de Salamanca played an important role in my transformation during my STEP Signature Project. Their deep understanding of Spanish culture, combined with their experience in teaching international students, made them excellent guides in navigating cultural differences. They explained Spanish customs and traditions without assuming prior knowledge, which allowed my classmates and me to ask questions freely and gain a clearer understanding of the nuances of life in Spain. Their approachable teaching style and willingness to engage in discussions greatly enhanced my cultural comprehension.

In addition to my professors, the friendships I formed with local students in Salamanca significantly influenced my experience. Unlike my professors, these friends interacted with me as they would with any other peer, offering me an authentic perspective on Spanish life from the viewpoint of someone my age. Their candidness allowed me to experience Spain as they did, without any special consideration for my international background. This was particularly enlightening because it provided a contrast to the more structured learning environment in the classroom, helping me to see the culture from a more personal and relatable angle.

Furthermore, the interactions I had with fellow students from various parts of the world added another layer to my learning experience. Engaging in conversations with them about their own cultures and backgrounds broadened my understanding beyond Spain, making me more aware of the diverse perspectives and experiences that exist globally. These discussions sparked my curiosity and excitement to learn more about different countries, customs, and ways of life, deepening my appreciation for the rich tapestry of global cultures.

Finally, the tours and sightseeing opportunities in different cities across Spain (and Portugal) provided valuable historical and cultural insights. Learning about Spain’s history, significant events, and notable figures helped me to contextualize the cultural differences I was experiencing. These activities, combined with the meaningful conversations I had with my professors, program directors, local friends, and international classmates, were crucial in shaping my understanding of cultural diversity and fostering a more global perspective.

4. Why is this change/transformation significant or valuable for your life? 

This transformation is significant because it has profoundly broadened my perspective and contributed to my growth in multiple areas of my life. Becoming more open-minded and gaining a broader worldview has not only enriched my personal life but also enhanced my academic and professional pursuits. Academically, this experience has made me more receptive to new ideas and diverse ways of thinking, which will be invaluable as I continue my studies in Speech and Hearing Science. The increased independence and confidence I gained will also empower me to take on more challenges and pursue opportunities that align with my goals.

Additionally, my improved fluency in Spanish is particularly valuable both personally and professionally. On a personal level, it allows me to communicate more effectively with my family in Mexico, deepening those connections. Professionally, as I aspire to be a pediatric audiologist, my enhanced language skills will enable me to better serve Spanish-speaking patients and their families, making me a more effective and compassionate healthcare provider. This transformation, therefore, plays a crucial role in shaping my future, helping me to achieve my academic goals and preparing me for a successful career.

1. Please provide a brief description of your STEP Signature Project. Write two or three sentences describing the main activities your STEP Signature Project entailed.

My STEP Signature Project was studying Spanish abroad at the University of Salamanca in Spain for six weeks. The main activities my STEP Signature Project entailed were going to Spanish classes 5 days a week, living with a host family and practicing my speaking skills, exploring Salamanca and other cities in Spain, etc.

2. What about your understanding of yourself, your assumptions, or your view of the world changed/transformed while completing your STEP Signature Project? Write one or two paragraphs to describe the change or transformation that took place.

Many things change during my time abroad, including myself, my assumptions, and my view of the world. The thing that changed about me personally the most was my ability to speak and understand the Spanish language better. I had to speak at least 7 hours a day in Spanish to my teachers and host mom which forced me to fully immerse myself in the language. Living in Spain also changed my assumptions about the people and country. I used to think they just liked to dance and party a lot, but it’s so much more to them. They do it to connect with other people and have fun. My view of the world also changed. For example, living in another country made me realize how different other cultures are from my own and how much time it takes to truly adjust.

3. What events, interactions, relationships, or activities during your STEP Signature Project led to the change/transformation that you discussed in #2, and how did those affect you? Write three or four paragraphs describing the key aspects of your experiences completing your STEP Signature Project that led to this change/transformation.

Many events, interactions, relationships, and activities during my STEP Signature Project led to changes in myself, my assumptions, and my view of the world that affected me in many ways. The main events I experienced that affected me were my weekend trips to other cities in Spain and Portugal. I was able to experience so many different regions of Spain which allowed me to get a broader idea of the country. Another event that really affected me was just going to my classes every day. Talking with the teachers and with students from other countries gave me so much more insight on worldly issues.

One of the relationships that changed me the most was my relationship with my host mom. Even though she joked with me and poked fun, I learned so much about Spanish/Spain from her that I wouldn’t have learned otherwise in school or on my own. I owe her my thanks for that. Other interactions that changed me was just small talk with the waiters, cashiers, tour guides, etc. in Spain. By talking with them, I was able to practice my Spanish outside of a classroom setting which helped me feel more confident. Although my understanding of them wasn’t always perfect, it’s important to make mistakes so you can learn from them.

Finally, there were many activities, mainly in Salamanca, that I did that changed and affected me in ways I didn’t know were possible. For example, taking a tour of the Cathedral, paddle boating on the river, learning Flamenco, visiting art museums, biking through town, taking a cooking class, and eating a lot of ice cream. I learned so much about Spain and Spanish culture this way that I really enjoyed, especially the cooking class. I plan on making what we learned at home. In conclusion, there were many events, interactions, relationships, and activities during my six weeks studying abroad in Spain that changed me and affected me in so many ways. It was once in a lifetime experience, and I will use what I learned there to help navigate my daily life.

4. Why is this change/transformation significant or valuable for your life? Write one or two paragraphs discussing why this change or development matters and/or relates to your academic, personal, and/or professional goals and future plans.

This change is very valuable to my life. First of all, academically, I am a Spanish minor, and my improvement in the Spanish language has also helped me to get the credit I need to graduate. Professionally, I also hope to one day get a job in a Spanish-speaking country. Now, I can speak and understand the language much better, which is necessary if I want to live in a country that speaks Spanish. Personally, I was able to experience and assimilate into another culture which is necessary if I want to travel a lot too. I also feel like this has made me more friendly, confident, and open to meeting new people. I am so grateful for this opportunity, and it has left a permanent impact on my life that I will remember and cherish forever.