Crossing Cultures

  • Individual Heritage

    • Personal lineage contributes to uniqueness; speaker shares own heritage (Scottish, African)

    • Recognition of global ancestry diversity among students

  • Cultural Mixture

    • Awareness of increased mix among generations

    • Mixed heritage can lead to positive growth or negative experiences; bitterness can stem from lack of understanding and empathy

    • Importance of understanding cultural norms to connect with others

    • Experience common human elements, despite surface differences (e.g., hair texture, skin color, living conditions)

  • Racism and Prejudice

    • Addressing issues of racism within different cultures

    • Situational prejudices exist within own racial or ethnic groups

    • Awareness important to avoid the 'ugly American' stereotype while traveling

  • Cultural Respect and Preparation for Travel

    • Importance of research before traveling to other countries

    • Recommendations for quiet observation to understand cultural context

    • Students will practice this in class with a 'silent observation' exercise

  • Self-Awareness

    • Importance of recognizing personal prejudices

    • Acknowledgment of Americans often viewed generically abroad, regardless of personal differences

    • Emphasis on understanding and respecting cultural differences

  • Expectations for Class Participation

    • Importance of attendance and engagement

    • Class participation contributes to learning about various cultures

    • Return to roots: reflect on parental advice

  • Class Activities

    • Introductions to facilitate connections between students

    • Discussions about California politics to prepare students to engage with perceptions abroad

  • Education Abroad Program Options

    • UCEAP: Education abroad locations in 43 countries; applicable for UC credit with financial aid

    • OAP: International opportunities offering non-UC credit with certain financial aid applicability

    • FLEAP: Faculty-led programs allowing UC credit and financial aid involvement

    • Emphasis on the historical trends and statistics of participation in these programs during COVID and beyond

  • Program Statistics

    • Increased student interest and participation rates before and during COVID

    • Demographic breakdown by gender, major, and ethnicity reflects diversity in participation

    • Summary of changes in student interest profiles before and during COVID

  • Global Awareness

    • Knowledge of key political figures (e.g., Governor Gavin Newsom) is vital

    • Understanding the implications of global events on perceptions of Americans and international relations

  • Final Thoughts and Reflections

    • Class designed to promote self-awareness and cultural understanding

    • Structured exercises during course to develop cultural intelligence and respect

    • Continuous engagement with diverse perspectives bolsters personal growth and understanding in preparation for travel