International coursework taken at UF

The courses I took include:

GEO2006: Natural Hazards Geography

CLT3370: Myths of Greeks and Romans

GEO2006: Natural Hazards Geography

While at the University of Florida, one of the international designated courses I took was GEO2006: Natural Hazards Geography with Dr. Kevin Ash. This course focused on disasters through the lens of geography, with a big emphasis on how human-environment interactions shape the outcomes of natural hazard events. I learned that disasters don’t happen on their own, but instead occur as a result of a mix of physical processes and human factors. In class we discussed how issues like poverty, urban development and/or poor evacuation planning increases vulnerability.

In this course, Dr. Ash covered a wide array of natural disasters on a global scale. His lectures were very engaging because he combined scientific information with real-world examples. Dr. Ash often asked the class to think about our own experiences and communities. For example, he’d ask how Gainesville might handle a hurricane, or what vulnerabilities exist in our own neighborhoods. This personal connection made me feel like the material wasn’t just abstract, but something that actually applied to my own life.

The assignments for the class were also very effective at reinforcing what we learned. We wrote reflections on disaster case studies, analyzed media coverage of hazard events, and used GIS to analyse natural event impacts across the globe. Instead of thinking of natural hazards as unavoidable “acts of nature,” I now see how much human decisions, vulnerabilities, and inequalities contribute to disaster outcomes. This class made me more aware of the importance of preparedness, resilience, and equality in how communities respond to disasters.

CLT3370: Myths of the Greeks and Romans

While at the University of Florida, another international designated course I took was CLT3370: Myths of the Greeks and Romans with Dr. Andrew Nichols. As the name implies, this class was all about the mythology of ancient Greece and Rome. The course started off with the major figures of Greek mythology, like the Titans and Olympians then we worked our way down the family tree of the gods. One thing that really stood out to me during class was how mythology was tied so closely to ancient culture and history. We talked about how myths supported social and political structures, like the way stories about kings or divine ancestry were used to justify power. We also learned how myths explained natural phenomena or reinforced social roles, especially gender roles. These myths are so much more than stories because they were a way for people in the ancient world to make sense of their lives and their place in the universe.

During class lectures, Dr. Nichols made the material more interactive with images of ancient art and archaeological sites. Every lecture included some kind of painting and/or sculpture that illustrated the myth. Seeing those artistic depictions reinforced how these stories weren’t just told through words but also through visuals that people interacted with in their daily lives. Another part of the course that I really enjoyed was learning about how Greek and Roman myths have been reinterpreted over the centuries. We looked at examples from medieval literature, Renaissance art, and even modern movies and books in class. It surprised me how often mythological themes pop up in the media, whether it’s a movie loosely based on the Odyssey or a painting of Venus, these myths continue to shape modern culture today.

Global Campus Engagement

In order to continue my international education after my study abroad experience, I took part in global engagement activities on campus. These activities included a zoom panel with UF alumni, an international tabling event, a seminar and a multi-media dance performance by UF students.

Event 1:

Teaching English Abroad (Zoom Panel with UF Alumni)

Event 2:

FLC International Night

(Retiz Union)

Event 3:

Rivalry over the Ethiopian Polity (UF Seminar)

Event 4:

Sound Moves

(Harn Museum)

EVENT 1: Teaching English Abroad

(Zoom Panel with UF Alumni)

I attended this event because I had such an amazing experience during my study abroad program. Being immersed in another culture pushed me outside of my comfort zone in the best way, and ever since then, I’ve been interested in finding other opportunities to gain international experience. When I heard about this Zoom panel, I was especially curious to learn from alumni who had experience teaching English in other countries. I wanted to better understand what the application process looks like, what daily life is actually like, and whether it’s something I could realistically see myself doing after graduation.

One of the biggest takeaways for me was how important it is to carefully review your contract before committing to a program. The panelists emphasized making sure details about housing, pay, transportation, and work expectations are clearly written and agreed upon ahead of time. Hearing their experiences made me realize that excitement about going abroad shouldn’t overshadow practical considerations. Knowing exactly what is provided and what is your responsibility can prevent a lot of stress later on.

Another perspective I gained was the importance of learning some of the local language before arriving in a new country, even if the job itself doesn’t require fluency. The panelists explained that making the effort to speak the native language shows respect and helps build stronger relationships with students, coworkers, and community members. It also makes everyday tasks like grocery shopping or navigating public transportation much less overwhelming.

This Zoom panel connects strongly to my future career goals because I hope to one day live and work abroad. Listening to different stories and pathways helped me see that there isn’t just one “right” way to do it.

EVENT 2: FLC International Night

(Retiz Union)

I attended this event because I wanted to learn more about what my peers have to offer in terms of international learning experiences. On campus, it’s easy to stay within your own circle, major, or routine, so I saw this as an opportunity to step outside of that and hear different perspectives. I was also really interested in seeing what kinds of performances the clubs would put on. From the music and dance to the traditional clothing and storytelling, it was clear that each group was proud to share an important part of their identity.

Although this activity doesn’t directly connect to my professional interests or career goals, I am still really glad I attended. Not every meaningful experience has to tie back to a résumé or future job. Sometimes it’s about personal growth and becoming a more well-rounded and culturally aware person. Being present in that space reminded me that college isn’t just about academics; it’s also about community and understanding people whose backgrounds and experiences may be different from my own.

Through attending this event, I expanded my ideas surrounding the importance of safe cultural spaces, self-expression, and belonging. I saw how powerful it was for students to have a platform where they could celebrate their heritage openly and confidently. The energy in the room felt supportive and welcoming, and it made me realize how essential those spaces are, especially for students who may feel underrepresented. Watching my peers express themselves so authentically reinforced the idea that when people feel safe and valued, they are more willing to share their stories. Overall, this event helped me better appreciate the diversity within the UF community and the importance of creating environments where everyone feels they belong.

EVENT 3: Rivalry over the Ethiopian Polity

(UF Seminar)

I attended this event because I have a close friend who is from Ethiopia. I like to take any opportunity I can to learn more about the place she is from. When you care about someone, you naturally become more curious about their culture, history, and experiences. I realized that while I’ve heard her talk about Ethiopia before, I didn’t actually know very much about the country beyond surface-level information. This event felt like a meaningful way to better understand her background and, more broadly, to expand my global awareness.

One of the most impactful things I learned was about the Tigray War (2020–2022), which occurred due to a power struggle between the federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Before this event, I had little knowledge of the conflict or the humanitarian crisis that resulted from it. Hearing about the political tensions, the displacement of civilians, and the broader impact on Ethiopian communities both within and outside the country helped me realize how complex and layered international conflicts can be. It also reminded me that events happening across the world deeply affect real people.

While this event doesn’t directly connect to my professional interests or career goals, I still found it extremely valuable. Ethiopia is a country I’m personally interested in because of my friendship, and attending this event allowed me to move beyond assumptions and gain more informed insight. More broadly, learning about other countries and expanding my international knowledge is always beneficial. In future professional settings, being globally aware and culturally informed will help me interact more thoughtfully with diverse communities. Overall, I’m really glad I attended because it strengthened both my personal understanding and my appreciation for perspectives beyond my own.

EVENT 4: Sound Moves

(Harn Museum)

I attended this event because a multi-media dance performance sounded interesting and different from the types of events I usually go to. The idea of combining music, visual effects, lighting, and choreography into one performance really caught my attention. I wasn’t exactly sure what the theme would be or how all the elements would connect, but that uncertainty actually made me more curious. I liked the idea of stepping into something creative without having clear expectations and just allowing myself to experience it.

One of the biggest lessons I took away from the performance is that not everything has to be fully understood in order to be enjoyed. There were moments when I wasn’t sure what specific story the dancers were telling or what certain movements symbolized. Instead of feeling confused, though, I found it refreshing. I realized I didn’t need to analyze every detail to appreciate what was happening. I could simply focus on the rhythm of the music, the coordination of the dancers, and the emotions they expressed through their movements. It was very nice to just sit there and take it all in without trying to “figure it out.”

Although this activity doesn’t connect to my professional interests or long-term career goals, I’m still very glad I attended. I do not see myself pursuing a career related to art or dance, even though I genuinely enjoy both mediums on a personal level. Experiences like this remind me that not everything I do in college has to align perfectly with my résumé. Sometimes it’s about personal enrichment and broadening my perspective.