In October, as a Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship recipient, I was lucky and honored to be invited to the orientation program for the Fulbright Scholars just kicking off their research/teaching programs in Italy. I spent a great day listening and learning and soaking up the positive vibes from this group of exciting, industrious, hard-working, amazing group of young professionals and graduate students. And I also got to meet the two other Italy Gilman recipients - Ashley and Aaron, You rock!
By this time, my 3 months in Italy had already given me a head start on the transition and experience process, but I was jealous they would be spending at least 12 months in Italy while doing their research projects. Four months is not enough time to really immerse yourself in the culture of your host country. I thought a previous Fulbright Scholar offered some very wise advice to the incoming recipients: "Be gentle with yourself." Your body goes through so many physical and emotional changes when you study abroad. My guess is month 5 is when most people start hitting their stride: communication is easier, friendships with natives are being formed, routines are being established, and a certain comfort zone is being found with your new life in a foreign country.
I have been blessed to learn some critical global and life-long communication lessons while being immersed in the Italian culture: General Cucchi, a retired NATO General and diplomat, taught us many impressive concepts during his lectures: to be humble and "realize, I am not the only owner of truth in the world," "Find a mentor," "Be flexible," and "Take chances." He believes you must know another country's history to truly understand the structure of their world and the way they communicate and negotiate. Another professor and former EU employee, Angela advises us "In your professional life, always challenge yourself by doubting and asking "Why?" Her lectures were also excellent: Be mindful listeners and flexible communicators. Listen to what isn't being said. And you must understand cultural norms to have successful cultural relationships and good communication. One's intercultural journey is a life-long process.
While studying in Italy, I have learned that flexibility is different than adaptability. I have been reminded that we are all unofficial diplomats and that every moment can be a joyful adventure. I have thought about legacy and what we as individuals and as a global comunity wish to leave for our children and those around us. What fears can bind us and what little steps can we do on a day to day basis to eliminate them? To speak strongly and courageously against stereotypes and prejudices. How a win/win philosophy sends ripples far and wide. And how lessons and relationships can come from the most unexpected moments, people and places. Indeed, "Showing up" is a great adventure.
Carpe diem!
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| My Cultural Communication classmates |
By this time, my 3 months in Italy had already given me a head start on the transition and experience process, but I was jealous they would be spending at least 12 months in Italy while doing their research projects. Four months is not enough time to really immerse yourself in the culture of your host country. I thought a previous Fulbright Scholar offered some very wise advice to the incoming recipients: "Be gentle with yourself." Your body goes through so many physical and emotional changes when you study abroad. My guess is month 5 is when most people start hitting their stride: communication is easier, friendships with natives are being formed, routines are being established, and a certain comfort zone is being found with your new life in a foreign country.
I have been blessed to learn some critical global and life-long communication lessons while being immersed in the Italian culture: General Cucchi, a retired NATO General and diplomat, taught us many impressive concepts during his lectures: to be humble and "realize, I am not the only owner of truth in the world," "Find a mentor," "Be flexible," and "Take chances." He believes you must know another country's history to truly understand the structure of their world and the way they communicate and negotiate. Another professor and former EU employee, Angela advises us "In your professional life, always challenge yourself by doubting and asking "Why?" Her lectures were also excellent: Be mindful listeners and flexible communicators. Listen to what isn't being said. And you must understand cultural norms to have successful cultural relationships and good communication. One's intercultural journey is a life-long process.
While studying in Italy, I have learned that flexibility is different than adaptability. I have been reminded that we are all unofficial diplomats and that every moment can be a joyful adventure. I have thought about legacy and what we as individuals and as a global comunity wish to leave for our children and those around us. What fears can bind us and what little steps can we do on a day to day basis to eliminate them? To speak strongly and courageously against stereotypes and prejudices. How a win/win philosophy sends ripples far and wide. And how lessons and relationships can come from the most unexpected moments, people and places. Indeed, "Showing up" is a great adventure.
Carpe diem!
