- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
