From sex trafficking to indigenous culture I was exposed to different global topics thanks to the Global Learning medallion. A life changing experience, that compels you for change. With a combination of learning, service, and the amazing, passionate, driven, individuals you meet along the way Global Learning has been one of the fundamental experiences in my undergraduate years. I found a passion for Religion, service, and a calling for global change.

Throughout history we have seen wars, genocides, and rulers use it as a weapon. Yet they fail to see the message of brotherhood and love (speaking of Abrahamic Religions). Religion, faith, and its roots in society has always captivated me and thanks to the Global Learning Medallion I was able to attain a minor in Religious studies. As a STEM major these extra classes provided a break from the hectic and sometimes mundane classes I had to take. These courses opened a different perspective for me and a way to look at religion beyond scripture.

Another aspect of Global Learning is all the humbling, growing, service opportunities that the program has available for you to be a part of. Out of all the different services I partook in, Paper Airplanes and AB trips hold a special place in my heart. In the AB trips I was able to use my passion for health service and medicine to help others. Through project C.U.R.E I was able to help put together 3 shipping containers for underdeveloped countries full of medical supplies and equipment. A full week filled with dust, sweat, and long hours never felt so rewarding. The other service I fill very passionate about is Paper Airplanes. Paper Airplanes is an organization whose mission is to bridge gaps in language, higher education, and professional skills training for conflict-affected individuals. By using virtual learning technology, we can make a difference in someone’s life by providing a mean for educational and employment opportunity. I love working with my students and even though we are oceans apart we are all interested in the sciences and medicine. So besides English if they need extra help with studying for exams Paper Airplanes gives us resources that we can pass on to the students in hopes of aiding them. What I love about the program is how excited students get understanding new concepts. Their faces literally light up and as a tutor that is the most rewarding feeling in the world. Even after the internship I will continue working for Paper Airplanes, because just an hour and a half can make the world of a difference for someone.