Self Reflection

§  What did you learn about yourself personally across this experience?

I learnt several things about myself during this experience, ranging in both depth and breadth. To start, I took in that first impressions are usually incorrect. For example, impressions and opinions that were generated from the meet and greet session, or even the pre-departure classes have transitioned to a much closer relationship with several people on this trip. A take away from this learning is to be cautious and aware, as well as able to restrain the want to form impressions and biases without the full picture knowledge, understanding that this of course can change over time and additional exposure to people and experiences. Additional things that were learned included the expansion of knowledge through multiple platforms, reaching much further than I had originally anticipated. I came into this experience a few weeks ago, unsure of my future educational path (post undergrad), unclear of my career path, and overall just a bit undecided in where I wanted to go next. As we work to wrap up this course I am looking forward to exploring master’s programs at home and abroad, have decided to come back to Budapest (with better weather), and am looking forward to applying for an internship with the United Nations. This experience helped me gain perspective on the various paths that are available to myself and my peers, while grounding us in understanding how privileged we really are, as Canadian students. Lastly, I am so excited to carry on the relationships that were unexpected with my peers long after this tour comes to a close.

Friends, what are you taking away from this course that you did not originally anticipate you would?