In life, we are often taken on unexpected journeys, with twists and turns that shape our stories in unexpected ways.
During one of my trips, I received some news that made me feel like I had discovered a rare gem amidst my daily busyness. When I was selected as Pakistan’s cultural ambassador through the GLOBAL UGRAD program, it was like stumbling upon a flower in full bloom amidst the fading colors of autumn. This was a moment of unexpected beauty and significance during a period of hard work and determination.
So this story started when I wanted to meet some friends from my alma mater and planned a get-together. I also wanted to get official transcripts to apply for scholarships, so my parents allowed me to do so. At that time, the United States Educational Foundation of Pakistan (USEFP) announced a cultural exchange program. And from there, the journey began.
I applied for a scholarship and received a call for an interview. I wanted to surprise his father for his birthday and he was the first to know about it (before me). This scholarship is extremely competitive (the acceptance rate is only 0.02%!), so I never expected to be selected. But to my surprise, the interview went well. Deep down, I knew I was doing my best and enjoying the experience. Even if they said no, I was okay with it.
Life continued as usual, with classes and exams dominating each day. Then, one day while scrolling through Facebook, I came across a post announcing the candidates for the program. Email notifications were turned off. I quickly accessed my inbox and found the email I had been waiting for.
It was Wednesday night, February 16, 2023, at 11:15 p.m. Everyone was asleep except my brother. I whispered in his ear to come into the room. I hugged him and cried as I shared this news. I couldn’t help but wake up his parents and tell them the news.
The next morning, I struggled to contain my excitement as I waited for the perfect moment to tell my parents the news. And their reaction was far more emotional than expected. It exceeded my expectations and filled me with pride and excitement.
I was an alternate candidate for the fall semester and a principal candidate for the spring semester. Lots of processing, paperwork, and long wait times. I completed preparations for the spring semester, obtained my visa, and said goodbye to my hometown on January 1, 2024, arriving in Washington DC for the welcome workshop. Thus began one of the most beautiful times of my life.
The girl, who once wandered like a cloud only in dreams, is now freed to explore the amazing beauty of herself and the world around her. And Vermont, you stole my heart with your breathtaking beauty. Every day you unveil new wonders that enchant me, painting a picture of serenity and charm like no other.
Here at Castleton, I have been fortunate to experience the warmth and support of my family of students, teachers, staff, local community, hosts, and friends who have supported me in many ways throughout my stay.
On campus, I thoroughly enjoyed classes and interacting with other international students, and actively participated in community service activities and campus activities. I am proud to be part of the Student Support Network, Multicultural Club, and Food Committee. In addition to that, I also served as a member of the Campus Activities Committee.
I had the opportunity to represent Zambia at an international conference hosted by Harvard University in Boston and to be part of all the Model United Nations teams on the VTSU campus. Another highlight of my experience was teaching a lesson to the local community, university students, and the Castleton Rotary Club titled “Cultural Journey to Pakistan” that fostered understanding and appreciation of other cultures. That’s it.
As I write this today, as I prepare to say goodbye to this extraordinary journey, my heart is filled with a mixture of gratitude, nostalgia, and a bit of anxiety about what will happen next. is filled with. This chapter of my life as an exchange student has been truly transformative.
During my time here, I have been fortunate to be exposed to many different cultures and have embraced people from diverse backgrounds with open arms. In dealing with different cultures and their differences, I have learned that beneath the surface, we are bound by the same universal truths: love, compassion, and an innate desire for connection.
Moreover, this trip was also a masterclass in professionalism. I learned a lot of important skills that will help me in the future, from finding ways to travel to different states to speaking well with people.
More than just a means of transportation, the airplane became a symbol of independence and self-discovery. It became like a road that helped me go to different places, learn new things and understand myself more deeply.
I also discovered the importance of taking time alone in my busy life of studying and meeting new people. This time alone is like a safe place for my feelings, an opportunity to think, rest, and learn more about myself. Also, by feeling homesick from time to time, I was able to realize even more the importance of home and family.
Additionally, this trip emphasized the importance of sharing and caring. Whether it was lending a hand to another student, sharing a meal with a stranger, or simply listening, I realized that human nature lies in our ability to connect, empathize, and lift each other up. .
I am so proud and grateful for the friends I made, the things I learned, and the memories I will always cherish. Most of all, I learned gratitude.
In the end, I hope to carry on the valuable lessons and experiences I have gained here and continue my journey with purpose and passion, making a positive impact on the world around me. Although our paths diverged, the bonds we formed and the memories we shared will forever be etched in my heart.
Helen Keller once said: Together we can do a lot. ”
