Sophia Diaz

Sophia Diaz

MAJOR: English

PROGRAM: FLP – The Cultured Personality, Italy

EMAIL: sophia.diaz@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Sophia Diaz. I’m a fourth-year English major, Legal Studies minor and President of the SJSU Mock Trial Program. I wanted to go on the Italy study abroad trip because I wanted to see how the Italian personality directly influenced, over decades of immigration, Argentinean culture; this question was relevant to me because my entire family is from Argentina, and I’ve noticed that Argentinean customs (significant foods, fashion & beauty standards, body language, comfort in social situations, etc.) have their origins in Italy. This trip was an opportunity for me to connect with my roots and visit the country where my ancestors are from.

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: I am the current President and one of the co-captains for the SJSU Mock Trial Program. I have been competing in Mock Trial for seven years, and have been in leadership for five of them, both in high school and at San Jose State. For the SJSU Mock Trial Team, I have also been a Director of Public Relations and a Director of Events & Competition in the last two years.

GOALS: My goals for this trip were largely personal. As I mentioned before, I wanted to form a deeper connection with my Italian heritage by linking my Argentinean cultural traits to the Italian personality, which was related to the study abroad course, PSYC 139, Personality in Culture. Throughout my trip, I also noticed I was asking larger, cultural questions, such as how mass tourism impacts and forces changes within the local culture— something that was unique to both smaller communities, like the island our group stayed in, Ischia, and in larger cities, like Naples or Rome.

I also wanted to use this trip as an opportunity to overcome my anxiety. This trip presented a lot of firsts for me: my first time flying internationally alone (which was daunting considering my fear of flying), my first time rooming with complete strangers, my first time taking a psychology course at the university level, my first time in Italy, amongst other things. The pandemic exacerbated my anxiety and discomfort in new situations, so taking the plunge by signing up for the study abroad course was my way of finally facing my fears and grow in the process.

ACADEMICS: I took PSYC 139, the Cultured Personality, a class that examines cultural-personality research over the past few decades and discusses how the field has evolved over time. Cultural personality research tries to see whether the cultural context of one’s upbringing has a significant effect on their personality; for example, whether growing up in America versus growing up in Japan would drastically change your personality traits, like extroversion, adaptability, openness, and the like. Since this was an upper division course for a major I’m not in, I had to put in a lot of work to understand the academic papers I was reading and answer the homework assignments in a comprehensive, detailed, and informed way. Our cohort would often get together to do the homework and read through the papers together, taking notes and discussing as a group. I would take the time to reread the paper until I understood it, and ask the professor questions about the things I didn’t understand. Being able to tackle subjects that were foreign to me confidently, and developing the courage to speak up about my ideas in class, has translated nicely to life back at SJSU, where I can comfortably participate in class, raise my hand, and sign up for courses that I know I might struggle in, because I’m confident I’ll be able to reach out for the resources I need without feeling awkward or insecure.

On the beach in Mallorca.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: The cultural immersion I experienced last summer didn’t just start or stop in Ischia. It wasn’t just the experience in bonding with and learning from Italian locals, but also from students coming from different parts of the U.S., like Boise, Idaho, or Omaha, Nebraska. In such a politically divisive time in our country, it was really valuable being able to form friendships and bond over our similarities with students who live in communities much different from ours in San Jose. So to start with my perspective on a domestic level, it was really eye-opening for me to meet people who have radically different local customs, beliefs and ideologies, ambitions, and backgrounds, but call themselves American just as I do.

On an international level, I was really happy to immerse myself in Italian culture because it felt almost nostalgic for me, being in the place that Buenos Aires so clearly was inspired by. The elderly Italian locals who invited us into their homes and taught us about their way of life felt like my Argentinean grandparents, with similar ways of displaying their comfort around you and their affection. The immersion made the issues of globalization, commercialization, and capitalism a lot more important to me because I had the opportunity to see firsthand how, for example, American corporate influences like chains such as McDonalds and Starbucks took away the power from local businesses who had to compete with these giant brands, and who felt that their cultural identity was being erased.

CAREER: One of the skills that studying abroad helped me improve was my ability to empathize with others from backgrounds that are different than mine. Its one thing to sympathize with the struggles, ambitions, or needs of a community you aren’t a part of, but it is another thing entirely to truly empathize with them. Being able to witness firsthand how local Italians are affected by regional politics, the economy, and the tourism industry helped me truly visualize how their lives are impacted, instead of feeling detached from their issues, like I might’ve been had I only heard about it in a book or on the news. Growing your ability to truly empathize with others is extremely valuable in law, which is what I want to go into. I would like to go into law school to being a labor law attorney, helping workers protect themselves in hostile environments and stand up for their rights. Being able to empathize with Italian employees whose lives are dependent on the tourism industry, which might not always treat them favorably, and figure out solutions when they were being mistreated, was an emotional and poignant learning opportunity for myself and for my classmates.

PERSONAL GROWTH: My study abroad experience challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone. I get so anxious when confronted with new things that I tense up and retreat into myself. Being surrounded by my classmates who were unapologetically themselves, and threw themselves into the beauty of new experiences, new smells, sights, sounds, and adventures, was really inspiring and helped my personal growth. I learned so much from being around students that had already finished their undergrad and were well into their adult lives, who told me about their college journeys and made me feel more confident about where I was at. I learned from them just as much as I did with my guides abroad, who showed me the joys of human connection and braving the unknown. Will a new experience always be perfect or pleasant? No. But the mantra we were taught by the tour guides, “Life isn’t perfect at home, so why would it be perfect here?”, while on a surface level somewhat negative, really helped me get over my fears and the “what-ifs”. I understood that life always has a potential to go wrong or take you in an unexpected direction, whether you’re at home or abroad, so why not take the chance and try something new anyway? That mantra stuck with me through the entirety of the summer and I think I’m a much more confident person having learned it.

IDENTITIES: I feel that my Latina identity become more prominent over the course of my trip as I became more comfortable and familiar with a culture that embraced the Latin personality. Italians are very similar to Argentineans in mannerisms, slang, body language, outlook on the world, even down to things such as aesthetics, interior design, flora and fauna, and food. It was empowering to be around a culture that felt like it celebrated the things that are so personal to me back home, especially when in my own life, I feel like my Argentine identity isn’t always accepted or understood— particularly in the way that I see my parents get treated, and how they sometimes face judgment for their accents, their slipups speaking in English, their lack of familiarity with American customs. I also felt empowered because of the many Latinx students in our cohort, some of my classmates being Puerto Rican, Mexican, and Colombian, to name a few, with whom I get to bond with over our shared cultural heritage.

FUTURE:  Italy Abroad and my summer overseas help me develop into a more confident and proactive individual. I was a very anxious person before I left for my trip, unsure if I would be able to survive the discomfort and confusion that comes with the unknown. But now, I’m ready to tackle new experiences and uncomfortable situations by successfully managing my anxiety.

TIPS: Look out for your mental health and learn to rely on your friends! Traveling abroad can be really overwhelming, but its important to remember to be kind to yourself as you’re trying new things and putting yourself out there, and to remember to support your classmates just as they support you, because you’re all experiencing these new things together.  Get a good amount of sleep the night before an excursion or activity. Traveling is really fun, but some times the days can be quite busy, so practicing good time management so you can finish your homework, take care of your personal needs, and get a good amount of sleep is crucial.

Dustin Wagner

Dustin Wagner

MAJOR: Anthropology

PROGRAM: FLP – Nevis Archaeology Field School, Nevis & St. Kitts

EMAIL: dustin.wagner@sjsu.edu

BIO: I am a student in the SJSU online Applied Anthropology program. Attending a field school is a requirement for becoming a working archaeologist. I was fortunate to find that experience offered through Study Abroad under the direction of Dr. Marco Meniketti. Dr. Meniketti is an expert in his field, and the one-on-one teaching he provides is top-notch. It was a no-brainer to choose the Faculty-Led program. Being in Nevis and St. Kitts allowed the team to practice all aspects of anthropology, from interaction with local stakeholders to helping with cultural resource management of degrading features. The locals of Nevis were happy to oblige us to participate in all aspects of island life due to the respect Dr. Meniketti has cultivated over 25 field seasons. It was a lifelong dream to practice archaeology in a foreign country, and this program fulfilled my dream while opening opportunities to become a working archaeologist.

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: Telecare Corporation:

Collection and transportation of medical hazardous waste, sharps and pharmacological waste from government, non-profit and private clinics across four counties to disposal sites. Collection and transportation of medical hazardous waste, sharps and pharmacological waste from government, non-profit and private clinics across four counties to disposal sites.

R&D Transportation Services, Inc:

Empowered people with developmental disabilities to use the public transportation. Provided job coaching by shadowing clients at their place of employment and at day programs, Collaborated with teachers at the ARC facilities for best training practices and insights. Empowered people with developmental disabilities to use the public transportation. Provided job coaching by shadowing clients at their place of employment and at day programs, Collaborated with teachers at the ARC facilities for best training practices and insights.

Secorp Industries:

Off-Shore oil platform Hermosa. I am the sole medical provider and Helicopter dispatcher at sea. I am responsible for all egress and survival gear, including closed air supply and lifeboat maintenance. Off-Shore oil platform Hermosa. I am the sole medical provider and Helicopter dispatcher at sea. I am responsible for all egress and survival gear, including closed air supply and lifeboat maintenance.

GOALS: My personal goal was to test myself physically, mentally and emotionally as to if Archaeology is the right fit as a career. The Nevis field school pushed me in a positive direction and has motivated me to go further in my education.

ACADEMICS: Our days were packed with lessons and real-world experiences specific to archaeology and anthropology. I woke up every day ready to work and learn while bringing a positive attitude to every new experience. Field notes were a must and were turned in to the director for the ongoing research in the area. I was able to work side by side with more experienced graduate students and received their backing to become a graduate student as well. After this experience, I am more motivated to apply to graduate schools, including SJSU.

Ready to work! Carrying tools to the Bath house dig site on Nevis.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: We rode local transportation, stayed in a Nevisian local’s home, and ate lunches at local eateries. During downtime, we relaxed in areas where the locals relaxed. We saw that every place in the world has its unique culture and aspirations. The main bus station had the same people one would find in the U.S. or Japan. Most were traveling, with some trying to separate you from your money. This left an impression on me as far as pondering the same economic divides that happen in the U.S. is apparent in a nation that is celebrating 50 years of statehood.

CAREER: We were taught all aspects of practicing archaeology by modern standards. We performed site surveys and artifact collection. We dug into our assigned units and were responsible for conducting a scientific inquiry into our findings. We processed artifacts and wrote field report notes daily. At the end of our work we properly repatriated the artifacts of lesser interest to the Nevis Legacy Heritage Association.

PERSONAL GROWTH: As a combat veteran with disabilities, I always worry about my capabilities as a professional. Will I work well with others? Can I physically perform the task, or will my medicines interfere with my abilities? Attending the field school and pushing myself out of my comfort zone allowed me to attain a lifelong dream. It has shown me that I have a place in the career field and can still accomplish tasks that help our fellow human beings.

IDENTITIES:I can be productive and attain goals.

By completing my education, I have not only started to attain my dreams but am also fulfilling the dreams of my grandparents and parents.

Veteran Status as It has shown me that I can overcome and work through the challenges of being a veteran.

FUTURE: This program has given me real-world experiences and a professional network. Nevis is a location I would like to continue working at. I was able to practice mobile scanning and plan to record more sites on the island nation in the future for a graduate school project.

TIPS: I recommend researching everything there is to know about the location and program directors’ research. This will make the experiences feel better as an informed student and less of a culture shock. It will also give you personal goals for what types of experiences you want to participate in.

Imaan Siddiqui

Imaan Siddiqui

MAJOR: Psychology

PROGRAM: FLP – The Cultured Personality, Italy

EMAIL: imaan.siddiqui@sjsu.edu

BIO: I am a psychology major and not only did I want to take the Psychology of Personality course, but I wanted to do so abroad. Studying psychology in another country offered a unique opportunity to gain profound insights into the influence of culture on human behavior, broadened my understanding of global mental health issues, and helped me grow professionally and personally. I also love studying other cultures and what better way to do that than to be there in person and have that full immersive experience! Last but not least, I have always wanted to go to Italy!

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: In high school, I was the secretary of the Muslim Student Association, was the mascot of my class, was a part of the National Honors Society, was a Freshman Link officer, and was part of the DEI club. Currently, I am a writing tutor at the Writing Center here at SJSU and am the vice president of the new Sustainability and Climate Innovation Club. I have had lots of opportunities to work and lead students using the knowledge I have acquired through my experiences.

GOALS: Through participating in this program, my goals were to experience personal growth, learn about cross-cultural perspectives and comparative social psychology, as well as global approaches to mental health and applied research opportunities.

ACADEMICS: I took the Psychology of Personality Italy Abroad (FLP) program. I made sure to do all required assignments and keep up with readings to curate context and mindfulness regarding our itinerary. Keeping up with the readings allowed for meaningful discussion among our class and with tourists. Now that I have returned, I feel motivated to do assignments, keeping in mind various perspectives and practicing patience.

This me was visiting the city of Pompeii on a very hot and sunny day!

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: This class gave me exposure to how psychology is understood, practiced, and perceived in different cultures which broadened my horizons and promoted critical thinking about my own culture’s norms. Learning how culture shapes the expression, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions helped me become a more culturally sensitive and competent learner. Identifying which concepts and theories in psychology transcend cultural boundaries and are more specific to certain cultures deepened my understanding of the human mind’s complexities. Observing the dynamics of social groups in a new culture allowed me to compare social behaviors and norms, helping me understand the impact of culture on social interactions. Exploring the differences in how self-identity, social roles, and communication are shaped by collectivistic or individualistic cultures expanded my understanding of human interactions. Understanding how cultural differences can contribute to misunderstandings and learning the skills of intercultural communication is invaluable.

CAREER: Exploring the use of traditional healing practices, complementary therapies, and their integration with Western psychological approaches expanded my knowledge base of the various ways to provide mental healthcare. Learning about different cultural perspectives on resilience and effective coping mechanisms helped identify new ways to support people from diverse backgrounds. Understanding the global disparities in mental health treatment and the cultural stigma attached to mental illness helped me be an advocate for change. Hands-on experience in a cross-cultural setting provided invaluable insights into real-world applications of psychological principles and allowed me to make meaningful contributions.

PERSONAL GROWTH: Living and studying in a new culture challenged my comfort zone, fostered resilience, and encouraged me to be more open to different worldviews. Being immersed in a new environment led to introspection, and taught me more about my own cultural biases and personal values. By gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures, I developed a broader perspective and learned to become a more responsible and empathetic global citizen.

IDENTITIES: As a woman in Italy, you definitely get some lingering stares (not bad just noticeable). I also found myself questioning my own religious and moral beliefs being in a country which has lower drinking ages.

FUTURE: It has allowed me to become more independent and confident in myself. It fostered an environment for me to be able to grow more into myself. It has opened so many opportunities and connections for me! With these connections, I am able to try and learn new skills that are useful in my field.

TIPS: I would advise them to enjoy their experiences and be open to making life-long friends! This is an opportunity of a lifetime. While you travel, take the time to be grateful and open to new experiences. It will make the trip that much more memorable and meaningful.

Summer 2024 Faculty-Led Programs (FLP)

Thinking about joining one of our summer Faculty-Led Programs? Now is the time to start planning. Applications are due January 31! Many programs are open to all majors and several fulfill graduation requirements (check the Academics tab of a program for details on the course, prerequisites and requirements it will fulfill).

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Check out all summer 2024 faculty-led programs here.