Hi, my name is Angelina Evans. I study geography, computer science, and environmental planning. For the fall 2022 semester, I studied abroad in Singapore through the CIEE Open Campus Block Program and am so glad I did!
During my time in this incredible Southeast Asian country, I was constantly learning new things. The island is home to millions of people who are proud of their rich histories, unique cuisine, and jaw-dropping artwork. I enjoyed taking long walks in massive gardens, trying flavorful dishes and tasty tropical fruits, and listening to people speak to each other in Mandarin, Malay, Tamil, Cantonese, Thai, and Tagalog. My study abroad experience allowed me to visit wonderful attractions such as the world’s first night zoo, Asia’s tallest ferris wheel, as well as several art, science, and cultural history and military museums!
Before leaving the U.S., I wrote down a list of goals I wished to accomplish while abroad. I am so glad I did this because those goals shaped my experience. One of the most important goals I made for myself was to gain a better understanding of cultures and history that shaped Singapore. I now realize this goal of mine was definitely reached, but I gained much more understanding and insight than I anticipated, while also allowing for others to learn about my own identity and the country I call home.
"This planet is truly amazing, and the more we put ourselves out into it, the more understanding people can have about us and our identity. One of the biggest things I learned is that the experience isn’t just benefiting you, the individual who is doing the traveling and studying. You can make a positive impact wherever you go."
I am half-Jamaican, as well as part African American, Mexican, and German. Even though Singapore is very diverse, I stood out amongst all the Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Anglo-European people there. However, I felt very accepted and comfortable as someone who looked different. This surprised me a lot and I really appreciate the kind people I met who made me feel so welcome and at ease! Even as someone who is of a lower-income level, I felt accepted in one of the world’s most expensive cities to live.
Though I felt comfortable and accepted, there were times I faced challenges related to my racial identity. Before this experience, I knew for a fact that what makes someone an American isn’t the color of their skin or where their family is from. Americans are all so different, and the differences is what makes our country what it is: a melting pot. So, it confused me when some older adults couldn’t seem to wrap their heads around the fact that I was American. I did receive the “No, where are you really from?” kind of inquiries. There were genuine questions about my identity that surprised me, but I saw this as an opportunity to show others that America is so much more than what is represented on television, advertisements, and history books. These experiences made me realize how much representation in travel really matters.
This planet is truly amazing, and the more we put ourselves out into it, the more understanding people can have about us and our identity. One of the biggest things I learned is that the experience isn’t just benefiting you, the individual who is doing the traveling and studying. You can make a positive impact wherever you go. Really get to know the culture and be open to sharing yours with those who are genuinely curious. Your appearance, culture, or social status represents the many Americans who deserve to be seen as American just as much as anyone else. It can be intimidating being different, especially when you come from a different background than your study abroad peers or you stand out among everyone else in that country, but I would encourage you to take that step of faith, focus on getting yourself comfortable and familiar, and immerse yourself into the culture as much as you possibly can. It’s true that memories from studying abroad last a lifetime!
Angelina Evans (computer science and geography double-major), a Diversity Ambassador Scholarship recipient, participated in the CIEE Open Campus Singapore in fall 2022.
LEARN HOW YOU CAN APPLY FOR A DIVERSITY AMBASSADOR SCHOLARSHIP
The Diversity Ambassador Scholarship program provides awards to study abroad for a summer, semester, or academic year. The scholarships are intended to support the diversification of students who study abroad. Upon completion of the study abroad program and return to UI, award recipients are asked to submit a photo and an open letter to prospective students or suggest an alternate means of sharing with prospective students.
Please note that the opinions and views expressed by diversity ambassadors are solely those of the students and do not reflect or represent the views of International Programs or the University of Iowa.
International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.