Reflection
The most inviting aspect of the entire global learning medallion experience is the refreshing shift from the cultural homogeneity that is the Miami environment. When I was first introduced to the idea of an interactive program that would enhance my awareness of global conflicts and grant me the opportunity to increase my engagement with both campus and off-campus organizations, I was extremely excited. More than everything else I was inspired because I had been given the resource I needed to connect with what I was missing in my limited college experience. In terms of perspective, I was able to frequently engage in forums, Q&As, round table discussions, and other interactive events that facilitated the ability to connect with other individuals from different sociocultural backgrounds despite differing experiences and lifestyles.
How it has contributed to my global awareness
Through the global learning medallion program, I was given both the opportunity and the initiative to work alongside some of the most insightful individuals I have ever met. I was frequently pushed to think outside of my own gendered, stereotypical limitations in order to create something beneficial in my independent study and internship. Within my interactions as an independent study student, I acquired first hand experience of the connections between immigration, gender, and the queer experience. These topics were then related to political conflicts as far as famine and presently occurring wars in the Middle East that motivate immigration into other neighboring countries. Therefore, these countries who offer political refuge have policies that serve to protect them from the "detriment" of immigrants, particularly queer immigrants, and demonstrate treatment similar to abuse and exploitation. To supple,emt this understanding of inequality and injustice, I learned about several issues including the experience of a queer, immigrant woman in the United States in the Women's Day panel discussion within the context of the United States challenges.
Engagement
My time in this program has definitely instigated an overwhelmingly strong urge to continuously dedicate myself for the progression of global awareness. It demonstrated to me that there are many opportunities to cease that an give both insight and experience that is applicable to a future employment opportunity. For me specifically, my time as a global learning medallion student has thoroughly prepared me for many of the conflicts that I will face as a health care professional. I was exposed to the faults in the health care system with focus on how doctor's bias has damaged and can continue to damage patient's trust in the system in general. In the future, it will be my duty as a physician to apply what I have learned so that I can be an excellent physician and caretaker while ensuring that my all of my patients receive full, adequate treatment.