Bridging Worlds
Local impact, global perspective
How community care and cultural connection shaped my global perspective on shared challenges and collective solutions.
How community care and cultural connection shaped my global perspective on shared challenges and collective solutions.
My worldview was shaped long before I even knew what a worldview was. Both sides of my family live in Pucallpa, a small city in Peru that many have never heard of. From the day school let out to just before it started again, I spent every summer in the Amazon—switching between two completely different worlds each year. Growing up this way gave me a deep understanding that there are countless ways to live, solve problems, and build community. I didn’t always appreciate being fluent in Spanish as a kid, but now I see it as so much more than a skill—it’s how I connect with my grandparents, understand my roots, and see the world through a different lens.
As I got older, especially in high school, that way of seeing the world deepened. It’s when I first became drawn to political science and environmental science, and when I truly began to appreciate the power of language—so much so that I was inspired to learn a third. It’s also when I started connecting the dots: what I do locally can impact the world more broadly. While my community in Raleigh held me up through some of my hardest personal moments, I was also learning about deforestation in the Amazon near where my family lives. It became clear to me that we need collective thinking to care for each other, both locally and globally.
This curiosity and awareness eventually led me to start learning French, a journey I began when I decided to minor in it during college. At the time, I imagined it as a skill that might one day help me land a posting at the UN, but it’s always been deeper than that. From the beginning, I’ve been guided by the belief that partnership, diplomacy, and human connection are essential to real progress. Alongside my Spanish fluency, learning French has opened up new ways of understanding how people communicate, think, and experience the world. Seeking understanding has become my way of showing up. I know I’m just one person in a much bigger world, and the solutions we need depend on listening to every voice, especially the ones that haven’t been heard yet.
Enrolled in French courses (currently level B1.1) to enhance language proficiency and cultural understanding. Actively participating in cultural events and discussions to deepen knowledge of Francophone cultures and strengthen community ties.
Completed a semester abroad at Sciences Po, one of Europe's leading universities for social sciences, focusing on international relations and public policy. Engaged in cross-cultural exchanges with students from over 150 countries, enhancing global perspectives on policy issues.
Recruited to represent the Town of Apex in the Hum Sub Diwali "celebrity" dance-off. Rehearsed for 2 hours weekly over 3 months to perform alongside the mayor and other Town of Apex staff, embracing and celebrating this rich cultural tradition.
Completed the Global Perspective Certificate Program at NC State and developed a deep understanding of global issues through coursework, cultural immersion, and hands-on experience.
Participated in a semester study abroad program in Prague, focusing on European history and culture. Engaged with local communities and explored the rich cultural heritage of Central Europe.
Participated in a summer study abroad program in Havana, Cuba, focusing on Latin American politics and culture. Engaged with local communities and explored the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean region. Developed a nuanced understanding of Cuba's unique political landscape and its historical context.
A map made for me, by me — visualizing the cities I’ve visited and some of the memories tied to them. It’s not just a snapshot of my travels, but a creative way to keep building my coding skills and create a digital keepsake.
"The people crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones that do."