Zaria taking on South America to Study Abroad

I remember the excitement of being exposed to a new language for the first time and it being apart of who I am. When I was introduced to Spanish courses in high school, the desire to explore and gain further knowledge about the other unique cultures that carry the Spanish language became even greater than the urge to eat I truly had a hunger for knowledge and connect to my roots. I readied myself for the day when an opportunity to study abroad would present itself and made it a goal to do so. There are countless other ways of life than what I experience on a daily basis and I yearn to explore it. Considering I have not decided on what exactly I’d like to do with my degree because of the many branches that are connected to Speech Pathology/Audiology, I am hoping that the classes I take while in Santiago will give me a better idea of how I can connect Speech Pathology to a global standard. Likewise, I would love to end the study abroad program with a better idea of international healthcare opportunities. I have always had an interest in traveling and experiencing different cultures and it is a dream of mine to be able to incorporate that into my career. As I stated previously, I want to use my Spanish speaking skills jointly with my career and I am confident that this program will prepare me by enhancing my current knowledge pertaining to the bilingual application in the medicine world.

Although I come across much distinctive coursework within my major studying Speech Pathology-Audiology, I have already started planning ways that as a Speech Pathologist with a Doctorates can learn beyond the university. This is another advantage I can take when it comes to “perfecting my craft” of telling a story. I want to take full advantage of this semester abroad not having any regrets or coming home and wishing that there were things I should have done. Global and Community Health sparks my interest due to my passion for impairment issues and global affairs in health and human services. Being able to be empathetic, to align with their values and cultural perspectives is an integral role of my being successful in this field. I will also be able to enhance my interpersonal skills on a global level.