As I reflect back on my 4 year at the University of Florida I find that taking part in the International Scholars Program has had a profoundly positive impact on my experience at the University. My participation in the International Scholars Program has expanded my awareness and perspective of various global issues and of my own culture. Becoming an International Scholar has given me the opportunity to explore more avenues in my future and helped me pick a path that’s right for me.

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As part of the ISP I got more involved in the many campus life events that take place every semester. This motivated me to expand my perspective and take part in events that I may not have been interested in otherwise. However, going to events such as “Confrontation and Aftermath” which helped me to develop a broad perspective on the world. At the event I got to understand alternative perspectives than my own which helped me to understand the feelings and viewpoints of others that are missed in textbooks and articles. Being an international scholar made me more invested in these issues, especially those that seem as far removed from me as Japanese energy policy. I am grateful to the University for hosting such events, since it helped me develop a more nuanced understanding of the multitude of ideas and viewpoints surrounding all sorts of issues and topics.

This awareness of global issues and of culture was further developed when I went to study abroad at Nanzan University in Nagoya, Japan. My experiences interacting with the people of Japan, both at and away from the University, helped me develop an understanding of who I was and how my actions can shape the world. Being in a foreign culture so different from my own, highlighted to me aspects of my own culture that I never noticed my before and how they affected my outlook on the world. This aided me in peeling away any preconceived notions and allowed me to see the world with clear eyes. When I came back I got a new appreciation for my hometown and how it had shaped who I had become. It was also at Nanzan that I first got an idea of where I want my future to go, all thanks to many long, engaging conversations with one of my wonderful professors.

Then there’s the courses and people I met at UF as an International Scholar, all of which helped me get a better understanding of myself and my goals. This program has also allowed me a chance to meet with professionals who work in diplomacy and help to get an understanding of the path to reach my goals.

Looking back the International Scholars Program has greatly affected my experience at the University of Florida by putting me in touch with people who shared my passion and helped to expand my horizons. I am truly grateful for all I got to experience at the University of Florida over these past four years, these times have shaped my life in a variety of ways.