Cultural Expansion: Attending a cultural festival or celebration (2 points) - Class of 2028

Attending the “Folia de Carnaval” event allowed me to experience and learn about the cultural traditions associated with Brazilian Carnival. The event included activities such as mask decorating, music, eating traditional Brazilian foods, and parade dancing, which are important elements of the Carnival celebration in Brazil. Participants were encouraged to engage with the cultural significance of the holiday while also learning about how communities celebrate it through art, music, and shared experiences. 

One of the most interesting aspects of the event was learning how Carnival represents both celebration and cultural expression in Brazilian society. The decorations, masks, and music demonstrated how festivals can bring people together while also preserving traditions and cultural identity. Participating in this activity allowed me to appreciate the importance of cultural exchange on a college campus and how learning about global traditions can broaden our perspectives. I also enjoyed having the opportunity to speak Portuguese with the Brazilian, Portuguese speakers in attendance. 

This experience connects to the importance of cultural awareness within healthcare and public health. As someone pursuing a career in medicine, understanding cultural traditions and values is essential when working with diverse patient populations. Events like this help build cultural competency, which is an important skill for healthcare professionals who aim to provide respectful and inclusive care to individuals from different backgrounds.

By: Kandace N. Bryant