Study Abroad: Cultural Immersion in The Bahamas (8 pts)- Evan Crump, Class of 2028
Studying abroad in the Bahamas gave me the opportunity to experience a culture outside of my own in a way that could not have been replicated in a classroom. Rather than simply learning facts about Bahamian history and traditions, I was able to see how culture is preserved through everyday life, from food and music to language, community, and shared traditions. One of the most meaningful parts of the experience was learning to observe without immediately comparing everything to what I was familiar with. Being in a new environment pushed me to become more open-minded and intentional about understanding why certain traditions, values, and ways of life are important to the people who practice them. It reminded me that truly learning about another culture requires more than visiting a new place; it requires curiosity, respect, and a willingness to listen. I left the Bahamas with a greater appreciation for the ways culture shapes identity and community. The experience also made me m...
