During my international learning experience, the most important learning moment has been knowing people from all over the world. Along with their perspective and points of view I gained so much knowledge on how other cultures work, how to be sensitive to other’s people beliefs and traditions, and how to accept and embrace different opinions and ways of thinking. I enjoyed learning from the local community as well as the international; during the program I was able to compare my customs with Nova Scotian’s and Canadian’s. Canada is based on a low-contact and caring society that respects and acts kindly towards others; meanwhile, in my country, we have a high-contact society that often ignores basic politeness. This cultural shock helped me get involved with my classes and how I interacted in them.

During the four months, my classmates, faculty and friends made me feel like home. I got involved rapidly in the common topics and sense of humor used in day-to-day conversations; this helped me understand and submerge myself into the culture. Diving into Nova Scotia’s culture and sharing about mine and its different aspects was the greater source of learning for me during this amazing and advantageous period. 

Thank you,

Mara Vega, Tourism Management (Akerley Campus)

Dominican Republic