Xavier University of Louisiana prides itself on cultivating a learning environment that extends beyond the classroom, fostering both academic and personal growth. The recent experiences of two students, Amber Parks and Hannah Jefferson, exemplify how global exposure can profoundly enrich their education and life perspectives. Amber Parks, a pathology Speech major, embarked on a journey to Taiwan with a curious mind and returned with a newfound passion for language learning.
“The most impactful experience I had during my trip to Taiwan was seeing how many people in Taiwan spoke English. It was genuinely so fascinating to see that a lot more people spoke English than I thought,” shared Parks. “It made me realize that a lot of tourists go to these foreign countries without even trying to know the language and expect accommodations for the native people to speak English. Coming to this conclusion made me realize that I want to learn more about their language. I want to be able to speak Mandarin, too, because that is their first language. I figured if they could learn English, I can learn Mandarin.”
Parks’ commitment to learning Mandarin reflects in her desire to bridge cultural gaps and deepen her understanding of global interactions. Her newfound skill will enhance her academic journey at Xavier and enrich her personal growth. Her goal to converse in Mandarin during her next visit to Taiwan underscores the transformative impact of cultural immersion.
“Since coming back from Taiwan, I have started taking Mandarin classes and am hopeful to become fluent in the language. This will influence my academic growth at Xavier because it will help me balance all my classes as a graduate student and also learn a new language. It will influence my personal growth because it has allowed me to understand the world from a different perspective,” Parks stated.
Similarly, Hannah Jefferson, a psychology major, found her experience in Taiwan to be a vital element of his personal and professional development. “First and foremost, it was a privilege to have this experience and gain a perspective beyond my current life,” Jefferson noted. “It is crucial for students who have never ventured outside their state to have the opportunity to see different ways of living. Understanding how life is experienced by others helps us appreciate what we have and broadens our perspective.”
Jefferson’s reflections reveal a deepened appreciation for global diversity and a reinforced commitment to leadership and service. He emphasized, “Expanding our knowledge of the world can profoundly benefit our collective well-being. My goal is to acquire skills that allow me to bridge communication gaps and include everyone in various contexts—whether in community service, teamwork, or professional environments.” Jefferson’s experience has inspired him to continue his service at Xavier, applying the cultural insights and language skills he gained.
The journeys of Parks and Jefferson are a testament to the value of study abroad programs and the importance of cultural understanding. Their experiences highlight how exposure to different cultures broadens one’s perspective and enriches academic and personal growth. As a university, Xavier is excited to continue supporting students in these transformative experiences. The university’s commitment to fostering global awareness and cultural competence is a core aspect of the Xavier education.
The opportunities afforded to Parks and Jefferson are just the beginning. We are eager to support more students in their endeavors to explore the world and gain valuable insights that will shape their futures. At Xavier, embracing global perspectives is not just an add-on but a central part of our educational philosophy. Xavier is proud to stand behind its students as they navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected world.