Studying Abroad

This study abroad trip was my first time leaving the country. I had a lot of different expectations about what another country might be like, let alone a small island with a population of less than 3,000. I had expected the people of Union Island to be more closed off and less welcoming than other countries may be, due to the fact that they were most likely strongly rooted in their ways and would thus be less accepting of outsiders. When coming into the island and beginning to meet the people that live here, I quickly learned how I was wrong. Walking down the streets, being obvious visitors, the people of Union Island were so welcoming, always greeting you as you walked past, or stopping a moment to have a conversation with you; I was so excited to have been wrong about this. During our time with the Imani Culture Club, we were brought into traditions and dances that date back throughout their whole history, and we were taught their ways and practices of different celebrations. They led us through song and dance that means so much to them and shapes them as people. I was so happy to be learning about their culture, and seeing everyone come together to have that time was amazing. I think that the people of Union Island are some of the kindest, caring, and helpful people I have met, and I could not have asked for a better place to open me up to the world outside of my home country.