Flexibility/Adaptability
Throughout my time in the International Scholars Program, I have encountered numerous situations that demanded flexibility and adaptability. From learning to live in a new country to adjusting to new cultural environments I visited, I was consistently presented with opportunities to demonstrate my skill of adaptability in the face of change.
Traveling to Morrocco
One of the most memorable instances that showcased my flexibility and adaptability was during a study abroad trip to Marrakesh, Morocco, as part of the study abroad program I was in. I was astonished to see how different Moroccan culture is to my own. In the bustling streets of Marrakech, I used each encounter as an opportunity to learn and grow. When faced with language barriers, I leaned on nonverbal communication and my limited knowledge of French to communicate. We had to conduct and dress ourselves differently there. There was also limited accessibility to clean water, so I had to adjust to being slightly dehydrated during my trip and drink tea instead.
Hiking down to a beach in Portugal
Another one of the most defining moments of my ability to be flexible is when I was faced with the daunting task of hiking down a cliffside to reach a secluded beach in Portugal. As someone who grapples with an intense fear of heights, this challenge was particularly scary. My friends and I ubered an hour out of Lisbon to visit a famous beach we found on social media, but discovered once we were there that it was at the bottom of a steep cliffside. We started our path down the rocky hill, taking a wrong turn at one point and facing a dead end. We eventually found the right path and continued down. I was terrified the whole time and relied on my friends to get me down the particularly steep parts. We made it, and I would never do it again, but it was worth the stress. I'm proud of myself nonetheless of adapting to a scary situation and coming out of it alive.
Moving to Madrid, Spain for four months
An integral part of my journey in the International Scholars Program was the life-changing experience of living and studying in Madrid, Spain, for four months during the spring of 2023. This immersive opportunity demanded flexibility and adaptability as I navigated the challenges of acclimating to a new culture, language and environment. I immersed myself in the vibrancy of Spanish life, creating long-lasting friendships while refining my skills in speaking Spanish. My time in Madrid reinforced my belief in the importance of stepping outside of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences.