Podcast: Dimensions of Culture

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Podcast: Cultural Identity

First podcast, click on title :).

Final Thoughts: Semester Completion

Looking back on this past semester in Intercultural Communications, I have learned a lot about the study of different cultures, but mostly about myself. Through the countless debates within class, I have gained knowledge on the mindset of others as it relates to their culture. I am thankful for the opportunity to experience mental enlightenment. Although I am a regular news watcher, it helps that I have a one on one account of society issues every Tuesday at 5pm.

If I can leave one thing with up and coming students it is to take the opportunities that are given to you and use it to your advantage. Take you college experience and use if for something positive. Whether you realize it or not, you are constantly being watched. Who is to say that someone you do not know is looking up to you? It is those thoughts that must motivate you to be the best you can be. What have you got to loose?

Interracial Relationships (Blog Series Pt. 3)

In concluding with this topic I would like to point out that when it comes to relationships, there is no correct way to be. There is only the respectable way to be. This means that if your partner is experiencing discontent in the relationship, there needs to be a re-evaluation. When different races are involved it is no difference except the bond must be strong enough to withstand ignorance for the outside world.

It is my opinion that interracial relationships and the uncomfortableness it sometimes causes is best for both the relationship and the person (or persons) who is against it. I believe it teaches character on both parts. The internal strength that they gain is unparalleled! Acceptance is the key to understanding. We as humans may not understand the purpose of some trials in life, but it is up to use to breath, reboot and deal with it with integrity.

Interracial Relationships (Blog Series Pt. 2)

Continuing with the discussion on interracial relationships. There is a lot to take in and remember when dealing with someone of the opposite race. We must understand that we as humans handle situations differently. Also, though race may play a role in physical differences, we must also take account of the inter-gender relationship.

In handling inter-gender relationships, it is best to understand that as males and females we have a difference in understanding and mannerisms. One can suggest that once we have a better handle on these differences, communication can grow and flourish. We cannot put blame of differences on ourselves or others. But, we can put the blame on our own individual lack of understanding. Once we cross that bridge, communication between genders and races can be beneficial to our future.

Interracial Relationships (Blog Series Pt. 1)

In Tuesday's class meeting, we hit on a very sensitive subject: Interracial Relationships. It got me thinking a lot about my friendships with people from different cultures and ethnicity's. The discussion brought me back to a time me and my good friend Jorge' were living in Orlando, Florida. One night he called me (around 11pm) because he was feeling down. Thankfully, I was just getting home from work and was still 'wired' (I worked at Walt Disney World). We went to IHOP and had a meal. We sat in a booth and from my view I caught a Caucasian family eating. Instead of enjoying their meal the wife kept staring at use and whispering to her husband. She couldn't take her eyes off us. I would have told Jorge' but at the time he had a quick temper and I knew he would tell them about themselves (but not in a nice way). So, I played if off and continued to focus my attention on why we went out in the first place.

Though it was wrong of the Caucasian family to stare. I feel that all Americans not matter what the race has a tendency to react that way to an interracial couple. Even though you just may be unbiased. The first reaction is usually shock, but, afterwards comes acceptance. So, I think that we all have a little bias in us. Except some take it to the ignorant level.

The W-Curve

Since the last Intercultural Communications class meeting, I feel as though a huge weight has been lifted. As I am approaching what I hope to be graduation, I have been feeling a strong sense of withdrawal. This normally happens when I am set to go back to Alabama, however, this time it is different. This time, there is NO returning spring semester. This time, I either sink or swim. My biggest fear is not being able to communication with my family once I get back. I mean, its not like I have changed that much, but, its that I have a whole new outlook on where I am going. I'm not the quiet girl who used to hide in the back of the room. Or, the one who was afraid to speak the truth.

Thankfully, I see that those feelings of adjustment are normal! Dr. Hart introduced our class to a chart that monitored the emotional stages when one is exposed to a different culture. Whether we realize it or not, our family is in that category. I mean, think about it. If you left home and are exposed to a different lifestyle, then, you adjust to that lifestyle, returned back to where you started will seem like a HUGE step backwards. For me, its MONSTROUS! But, now that I recognize my emotional stages, I feel confident that I will make the best of whatever I am exposed to.

Every experience has a purpose

The title pretty much explains itself. Every experience has a purpose is simple...we must take what is given to every extent! Now that I am about to (hopefully) graduate in December I find that everything I have gone through (good and bad) has made me who I am today. From troubled roommates to empty pockets, I have learned to maneuver and maintain a sense of sanity within myself. Thus, making me stronger as a person.

Not all personalities parallel to each other and not all personalities mimic either. It is those times that we must reach inside ourselves to find what will give us peace of mind. Whether it is taking a walk or savoring your favorite food find out your voice of reason and listen to it! For me, my voice is traveling. As I approach departing from NSU, my dream to finally move from Alabama is still being pursued. Getting away from southern culture will be good for me. I am a city girl at heart who just wants the chance to breath without someone asking "Why are you breathing!" From someone my age it is well over time for me to experience what the world has to offer. And if I keep trying I know the outcome will be phenomenal.

The Debut

WHY DIDN'T I KNOW ABOUT THIS FILM???!!!

Now, I like to think of myself as someone who thinks: Outside the box. But, somehow I missed the film genius of Gene Cajayon! His directorial debut...The Debut was about the life of Ben, a Filipino American boy trapped in a world that he felt ashamed of daily. Not to give too much away, but the audience is taking on a cultural journey in which was so well written that no matter what your ethnic background is, you tend to relate the the story's main character (or others). There was laughter, tears and overwhelming feeling wrapped up into a film done with the use of 5 credit cards!

The film ends with a reconciliation of cultures and spirit. I learned a lot from this movie that I will take with me for a lifetimes. To me, movies are a great gateway to find oneself.

New Opportunities

On Friday October 16, 2009 I had the privilege and opportunity to volunteer for MCJR's Media Conference 09'. During which I gained vital information on the progress of the growing media. The conference meant more since realizing in September I was unable to attend MCJR's Annual New York media trip. I was extremely disappointed that I would not be able to go. However, when one door closes another one opens.

The conference opened my eyes to many aspects of media I knew nothing about. Some the panel members were: Kevin Ross- President of 3BAAS Media Group, April Pierce- Associate Producer at News 12 Networks, Kelly Buffaloe-President of The Kelly Company and Dr. Stacy Jones- Dean of Benedict College.

With a smile I can honestly say that this conference opened my eyes and restored my faith in striving for a career in media. I am thankful to the staff of the MCJR department and their dedication to the students. One day, I hope to be a panelist and give back.

Seeing the world...through a prision cell.

I was looking through some news articles and fell upon a story that I simply 'had' to blog about. In an article by the UK Mirror, a women spent 5 weeks in a Guyanese prison after being wrongly accused of drug smuggling. Basically, another version of Broke Down Palace (a film that was based on a true story starring Claire Danes and Kate Beckinsale). As I was reading her diary I started wondering if our desire to 'see the world' has become mute? Or, should we not blame countries for trying to protect their borders. We've seen the outcome of Current TV's reporters, going far and beyond for news seems more deadly now then before.

Here this women is wanting to expand her horizon, to give her children something to admire is placed in a position to doubt others and herself. She was subjected to cruel and harsh treatment. And we know from history and events that women are more likely to be brutalized due to lack of respect (for more info: http://www.mirror.co.uk/life-style/real-life/2009/10/13/i-thought-i-d-die-inside-filthy-guyana-prison-exclusive-115875-21745096/)

It just isn't safe anymore to travel beyond the boarders of where you are. I remember a time when the worst thing you had to think about when traveling was making sure you get 'numerous' vaccine shots. Now that I am appoarching graduation, my outside of the country traveling dreams are being reverted back to in-state.

No Experiences No Education No Problem!

As I sit here in the computer lab of my dormitory, I start to wonder "Will I ever land a job?" You see, since Spring 2006 I have been on the infamous 'job hunt.' Im on the phone sun up to sun down attempting to gain recognition that this student is serious about her education and career goals. But, I find myself in the same boat as those students who 'just dont care' if they get a job let alone a career. Since I was a young adult I was told...'the early bird catches the worm.' Now-a-days, its not the 'worm' we are after, but the man who OWNS said bird which will tell this person about you, who will forward the worm to you. It seems as though the old folk tale of 'The Little Red Hen' ceases to exist. No one cares anymore that you do things on your own. Its all about the person who knows you to tell your story.

But, I will not give up. There is a company out there who is looking for someone like me. Someone who isn't afraid to step into a different culture to succeed and get ahead. Until that day comes, I continue to type up resumes in hopes to not get carpal tunnel (again). It is up to me to make sure I don't forget my struggles and to one day shine a light on someone else's darkness. There are jobs out there people. Jobs that we will actually like. But, just in case it doesn't happen when I expect, there is a box of Fruit Loops, Vanilla Silk Soymilk and a High School Musical cereal bowl waiting in Alabama.

Cultural Experiences = Massive Understanding

So, as I prepare to finish my final year of grad school it crossed my mind how many different people I’ve met. I’ve been friends with people from: Brazil, Venezuela, Guyana, and Italy (to name a few). I made more lasting friendships with them then I did my fellow Americans. Is it that the U.S. has such a 'give me mines now' type attitude? Or, have we just taken for granted the power of just 'smiling' and getting on with our day?

There once was a time when I didn't smile at people (let alone look at them). It wasn't because I disliked them; it was my way of focusing on my goals. After I was asked to work for Disney, I found that there is a whole other world that I knew nothing about. I tried new and exciting foods, dances and cultural behaviors. It was such an eye opening experience that I went back.

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