As an undergraduate at the University of Florida, my academic journey has been nothing short of transformative. Reflecting on the past four years, it's clear that the university has expanded my horizons in ways that even my freshman-year self, navigating college amid a global pandemic, could not have imagined. The International Scholars Program (ISP) played a pivotal role in shaping my global perspective and offering a glimpse into the possibilities of my future. Coming from a family that values the enriching experience of travel (“There is so much out there! You have to go see it!”), I saw ISP as the perfect opportunity to immerse myself in diverse cultures.  The program’s impact on my personal growth can be showcased through the various array of experiences and interactions that have enriched my time at UF. With its emphasis on global learning, this program allowed me to explore a world of cultures right from our little college town. 

          The initial challenges of a fully online freshman year in 2020 motivated me to seek meaningful connections as soon as my sophomore year began. Taking on the role of a Language Assistant at the English Language Institute marked the beginning of my journey into cultural exchange. This experience not only facilitated friendships with students from diverse backgrounds but also empowered me with newfound confidence and leadership skills. Directing my own class and crafting lessons taught me the value of open-mindedness, empathy, patience, tolerance, and flexibility – qualities that became integral to my personal and academic life.

          Participating in a Garba-Raas dance team on campus added another layer to my growth. Late-night practices and competition weekends were physically demanding but ultimately rewarding. The team dynamic, composed of individuals from various cultural backgrounds, including students from India, Peru, South Korea, Canada, and more, provided an opportunity for teamwork and illuminated my own strengths and weaknesses. Balancing social life, dance practice, and academic commitments enhanced my time management skills, strengthening my relationships with friends and family.

          Yet, the pivotal decision that has profoundly influenced my university career was opting for Chinese as my second major. Navigating through beginner to advanced levels of the language revealed the joy of mastering a new language, something I had long forgotten after learning English almost a decade ago. Delving into the roots of Chinese culture, from ancient traditions to contemporary society, provided a rounded understanding that transcended geographical and cultural boundaries. Comparing Western culture with East Asian culture fostered a broader perspective, making me more open-minded and culturally aware.

          This program has been a transformative opportunity for me to document my undergraduate experiences in a format easily shareable with family, friends, and those who have guided me throughout my university years. Beyond this fact, it has become a vital tool for self-reflection, allowing me to trace my journey and appreciate the substantial progress I made since stepping into university life. As I reminisce about the highs and lows, and recognize the hard work invested, I can unequivocally state that, despite the approaching conclusion of my time at the University of Florida, these four years have been exceptionally enriching.

          The ability to articulate my academic and personal growth through this program has allowed me to feel a profound sense of achievement and completion. It serves as a testament to the challenges overcome, the lessons learned, and the resilience I developed during my undergraduate tenure. 

          I am extremely grateful for the opportunities ISP and UF have presented to me over the years. I can proudly say that, although the future may seem a bit daunting, I am confident that through my education I am ready for whatever the next step may be. As I prepare for this next transition in life, this reflection and ePortfolio will undoubtedly serve as a meaningful narrative of my formative years; something I can look back on to be reminded of how far I’ve come, and how far I’ll go.