This spring break I had the pleasure of going on a study abroad program to Belize, made possible through the generous support of this scholarship. It was an incredibly transformative program that opened my mind to a new culture, environment, and community. Upon arrival I was met with a wave of warmth, both in temperature and hospitality that set the tone for the program. The drive from the airport to the hotel was breathtaking, the lush forestry and abundance of wildlife was a beautiful shift in scenery compared to the cold snowy weather in Michigan. The sensory richness of Belize, the sights, sounds, and smells, was unforgettable.

Since returning, I feel that on a personal level I have become confident in my own choices and sense of personal direction. I’ve become more open and confident, carrying myself differently after learning and growing independently. Academically, learning beyond the classroom has given me a more immersive and meaningful understanding of the topics we studied. Seeing the concepts we explored before our departure in real-world settings deepened my understanding of social and economic inequality. Hearing the personal stories of students and teachers going through hardship was eye-opening. I was able to connect theory to real-world situations, and this experience has given me a clearer sense of the reason for me choosing to study supply chain management.

I had an amazing time getting to know the amazing individuals in Belize who generously shared their culture, stories, and knowledge with me. As someone who studied Spanish for a few years, I found navigating Belize much easier than I had anticipated. I was able to pick up conversational Spanish from the locals, which made it easier to understand basic interactions and ask for help when needed. I learned so much from the host culture. They taught me the history of their land and the traditions they carry on to this day. They taught me how to grind corn to create tortillas as well as how to mold clay to create traditional vases through clay sourced directly from the village they resided in. They taught me to value the community around me and to care for the land. I as a Palestinian learned that our cultures are so incredibly similar, and that the same values of community are present in cultures that are on opposite ends of the globe.

A myth that I found to be false about studying abroad was the idea that “making friends is difficult.” My peers quickly became a newfound family during the break, and I found myself stepping out of my shell more and more each day. As someone who is normally very introverted, the fear of not getting along with others or struggling to make friends weighed heavily on me before the program. I learned to trust the process and go with the flow. Studying abroad can bring out the best in everyone even if you're naturally more reserved.

I hope other students, especially those who are also from underrepresented backgrounds who may have reservations about traveling abroad can see themselves in my experience and feel encouraged to embark on an exciting and rewarding journey even if it may initially seem intimidating.

Name: Zainah Abu Lubdeh
Status: Sophomore
Major: Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Okemos, Michigan
Program: Contemporary Issues in Developing Societies in Belize