Blogs

Makailah Hill has always had an interest in traveling abroad. As a senior, History major, she wasted no time as a student, studying abroad her first year in China, then Morocco, traveling throughout Europe, and plans to work in Japan after graduation in May.

• What has influenced or shaped your passion for international education/exchange?

I grew up being sheltered and spent most of my time inside, usually reading books. I started to read books about these new worlds, and I could picture these places but I couldn’t touch them. When I had the opportunity to explore after high school, I knew I wanted to travel as much as I could. I went abroad first to China, then I spent 10 months in Morocco. Being so close to Europe, I traveled all throughout that region, and finally I spent a summer in Italy as an Au Pair and teaching English.  

• Can you share an intercultural experience or moment that inspired you?
  
  There’s been a lot of moments, but one that sticks out is when I was in Morocco; a friend and I were traveling and there was an experience where we went down the wrong street. A family happened to see us, and noticed that we were lost, so they took us in for the night. I was blown away by their kindness, and thought about back home, and not knowing many people who would do that for strangers. I was inspired to let go of my fears, and keep going through the stressful moments, because you never know the kindness you might find.
• In your opinion, what are some benefits to international education/exchange?

You get to learn about another culture and find yourself stepping out of your comfort zone, quite frequently, and eventually you learn that its often times not bad, but it’s really beneficial. You get to know lots of new people, and learn a lot about yourself and others. It can be a very enlightening experience.

• As a student, how do you promote international education/exchange or expanded intercultural experiences whether through campus, community, or around the world? 
  

When people ask me about my experience, I try to be as truthful as possible; I include all the great things that happen, but I also include the difficulties. I think it’s important to include it all. Someone was interested in China, and was a little hesitant, but ended up going and having an amazing time. I was glad I was honest and encouraged them to just try.

• Where are some places you have traveled that have expanded your perspective of yourself and the world?

Morocco, specifically, because as a student there, you have to study their history. So it was the first time I was studying Middle Eastern and North African history, and it was interesting because they were focusing on the pieces of history that we typically see as stereotypes. It really brought to the forefront, for me, the global world itself, and how little we actually learn in the U.S.

• If you had to pick a life motto or quote, what would it be? Why?

Don’t stop at the first at the first sign of adversity. It can block you from having some of the greatest experiences.