Being an International Scholar at the University of Florida (UF) has been one of the most transformative experiences of my academic journey. The program has not only deepened my understanding of different cultures and perspectives but has also helped shape me into a more globally aware, confident, and adaptable individual. Through engaging with diverse peers, attending culturally immersive events, and learning from my experiences abroad, I have grown both personally and professionally in ways I hadn’t imagined.

From the moment I joined the International Scholars Program (ISP), I was thrust into a world of diverse perspectives. The program encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, which led to one of the most pivotal experiences in my life—my study abroad trip to Peru. Living with a host family, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in Peruvian culture, learning not only the Spanish language but also the deep history, traditions, and values of the people. My host parents, Jacqui and Guido, shared meals, stories, and customs that opened my eyes to a way of life so different from my own. I learned about the importance of family bonds, the significance of food in bringing people together, and the role of community in shaping individual identity. One of the most profound lessons came from my host father’s explanation of how food, like papas (potatoes), is deeply rooted in Peruvian history and culture. This experience taught me the importance of cultural exchange and helped me build lasting relationships that transcend language barriers.

In addition to the cultural immersion, my experiences in the ISP allowed me to reflect on my personal growth. The program provided me with opportunities to challenge my assumptions and rethink my perspectives. One such experience was mentoring a Vietnamese international student through the Global Gators Connect program. Not only did I help her navigate her transition to the United States, but I also learned from her resilience and ambition. She transitioned from biomedical engineering to microbiology and pre-dental, which inspired me to approach my own academic journey with more flexibility and openness. I guided her to local restaurants, took her on campus tours, and drove her to Preview for international students, but it was through our conversations and her performances in clubs like the Vietnamese Student Organization (VSO), where she danced traditional fan dances on stage, that I saw her grow into a more confident and engaged member of the UF community. This experience taught me the power of mentorship and how it can lead to mutual growth.

The ISP program also gave me insight into the importance of global engagement in both my personal and professional life. Through attending events like the seminar “In the Footsteps of José Martí Around the World,” I learned about the influential life of José Martí and how his legacy is commemorated worldwide. This seminar sparked my interest in global history and the role of cultural figures in shaping societal values. It also inspired me to continue learning languages, leading me to expand my knowledge of Spanish and pursue Arabic as a future language goal. Learning Spanish at UF was both challenging and rewarding, especially when I encountered the complexities of verb tenses like the subjunctive and conditional. However, my persistence paid off, and I found joy in using Spanish to engage with patients and their families during my volunteer work at the hospital. I even asked for food recommendations and was delighted to hear about congri, a Cuban dish, from a Spanish-speaking patient. These small moments reinforced my belief that language is a bridge to deeper connections.

Beyond language skills, the global learning experiences at UF have broadened my worldview in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. I’ve learned to approach problems with a more open mind, considering diverse perspectives and solutions. For example, when helping my Saudi Arabian language partner practice English, I encountered moments of frustration where we struggled to communicate. Using translation apps like Google Translate and connecting through pictures of our lives helped us overcome these barriers. These experiences reinforced the importance of patience, adaptability, and empathy in cross-cultural communication—skills that will serve me well in my future medical career.

The International Scholars Program has also prepared me for my next steps in life after graduation. As I prepare for a gap year before medical school, I know that the skills I’ve honed through ISP—like active listening, cultural competence, and language proficiency—will be invaluable. Working with international students and immersing myself in diverse cultural settings has strengthened my ability to engage with people from different backgrounds, which is essential in the healthcare field. Whether it’s navigating language barriers with patients or understanding the cultural context of their health beliefs, I feel more equipped to provide compassionate care that takes into account the unique needs of each individual.

In conclusion, the ISP program at UF has profoundly impacted my personal growth, academic development, and future career aspirations. It has expanded my global awareness, taught me to embrace diversity, and shown me the power of cultural exchange. As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I am excited to continue building on the foundation ISP has given me. Through my experiences in this program, I have learned that true growth happens when we open ourselves to new perspectives, step outside our comfort zones, and engage with the world in meaningful ways.