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Maria Elizabeth Olavides-Soriano
I am a Professor in History, Political Science
and International Studies at Xavier University in the Philippines.
I came to Washington for a Senior Fulbright -
American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship.
Having been selected as one of only three fellows worldwide is both
an honor and a challenge as I continue to discover new perspectives
and prepare myself in assuming a leadership role when I return to
my country.
The vision of understanding the world beyond one’s
own borders compelled me to apply for admission to ISH when I was
still in the Philippines. It was a decision that has profoundly
shaped my views not only of America but also of other countries
in the world.
The community environment in ISH has given me
the opportunity to explore issues of cultural diversity and matters
of international importance. The challenges of adjusting to so many
cultures was more exciting for me when I sat down beside the Tibetan
gentlemen during the Sunday dinners in honor of the Quaker founders;
having hot chocolate and sharing stories with Pilar, my Spanish
historian-friend; discussing political issues with Tony from the
Caribbean Islands at the front desk; and laughing at funny emails
in the computer room with Thabo from Africa and Nari from Japan.
Erik’s weekend trips to New York and Richmond, Virginia were
also fascinating experiences that enhanced my appreciation of American
culture.
My ISH sojourn has been a perfect complement to
my studies in Washington. I have learned to re-evaluate perceptions
of different cultures and also understood my own through the eyes
of the friends I have met here. I now avoid making judgments until
I have assessed situations from various cultural angles and contexts.
Living in ISH has given me the best of many worlds.
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