From Behind The Desk To Changing Lives

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A GlobalConnect Intern shares her experience.

Studying abroad is an adventure, and like all adventures, it has critical moments. As I undertook the journey I felt excited but also unsure of what to expect. My adventure began a little more than four months ago when I arrived in Washington, DC, with two suitcases, a study plan, a desire to find an internship and a fixed objective of widening my personal, cultural and professional perspectives. While pursuing my Bachelor’s in International Relations in La Universidad De Los Andes in Bogota, Colombia, I grew increasingly motivated to deepen my knowledge through work experience, and to become a...

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If There’s A Will, There’s A Way

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A group photograph of the participants of Business and Economic Entrepreneurship Program (BEEP). - April 2014

Renowned philosopher Confucius once said “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” Perseverance will get you somewhere, and sometimes, it ends up being a better place than you originally envisioned. One of the purposes of professional exchange programs is to motivate participants to realize their potential and to give them opportunities to connect with new people and understand the advantages of social entrepreneurship through exchange of ideas and experiences. This gives them the tool set to persevere through the challenges Confucius referred to so long ago. Professional Exchange Program alumnus Moreblessing...

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Interns’ International Experiences Enhance Cultural Exchange

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Meridian welcomes the Spring 2016 GlobalConnect interns!

A combined total of 20.5 years abroad in 15 different countries. Eight foreign languages spoken. GlobalConnect division’s five new interns embody the diversity of backgrounds and cultural experiences Meridian emphasizes as the foundation for global leadership. Exploring Cultural Outreach through YLAI YLAI (Young Leaders of the Americas) Program  Intern Alexandria Anderson also understands the importance of cross-cultural communication in community development. As an undergraduate at Spelman College, Anderson studied abroad in Cochabamba, Bolivia in a field studies-based program focused on multiculturalism, globalization, and social change. From potato farming with her host family to participating in a welcoming ceremony in...

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A Program Exchange Unlike Any Other

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A group of the WiSci campers laugh with a counselor while they learn how to weave a bracelet.

If someone asks you if you’d like to implement a summer camp for 120 girls in the heart of Rwanda–grab it, as it is not a question many individuals are faced with. When Meridian International Center, a non-profit in Washington, DC that specializes in cross-cultural exchanges, was brought on to help facilitate the 2015 Women in Science (WiSci) Camp in Rwanda this spring, I knew the program would bring a life changing experience. When given the opportunity to be part of it, I realized how different yet similar my experience would be compared to our 120 bright campers from...

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