Programs Abroad:
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Semester Abroad (SA): CIEE Khon Kaen: Development and Globalization, Thailand
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Global Research and Internship Program (GRIP): Shahi Exports Intern in India
Ask me about...
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Looking like a local from the host country but not actually being a local
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Experience homestays and community visits
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Going abroad without any other Penn students
My Experience Abroad:
As I study International Relations, I chose a program specifically focused on development and globalization. Through this program, I learned about international development through direct contact with communities experiencing the effects of globalization. By having exchanges with NGOs, villagers, and government officials, I gained different perspectives and learned about the complexities concerning environmental, development, and globalization issues. For example, during one unit I examined how global trade and pricing mechanisms of sugar affect local sugarcane farmers in Thailand. I was able to see how the theories I studied in class connected to real-life people and also how they failed to completely represent the realities of the people on the ground. As I concentrate on human rights, I also gained a deeper understanding of the connection between global human rights and community rights, and how they intersect but also differ.
Other Highlights:
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Weeklong community visits where we lived with local homestay families in rural Thailand
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Having deep conversations around a bonfire with my classmates and professors on a community visit while stargazing
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Competing in "color games" competition (sports day) with local Thai students
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Going to a local market on a scavenger hunt for Thai class to practice our vocabulary
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Interviewing the local government office about its land rights policies and why villagers were being evicted
