For Eva Telesca ’25, the winter break study abroad experience in Zambia proved to be a pivotal moment. Delving into Zambia’s political past and participating in experiential learning opportunities beyond traditional classroom boundaries offered a fresh perspective on academic rigor. Amid the enriching academic environment, she encountered obstacles.
Reflecting on her time outside the classroom, Telesca noted the persistent challenges posed by systemic discrimination against various social identity groups beyond racial divides. She remarked, “Upon stepping out of the academic realm, I grappled with the prevalent forms of systemic bias, particularly the harsh penal laws in Zambia that target individuals suspected of non-conformity to conventional sexual norms.”
Telesca, a student in the ILR School and a featured speaker at the upcoming event on March 13 at 5 p.m. in Statler Hall 165, shared her insights. The event, part of the universitywide theme year, will host four panelists who have studied in diverse locations such as Denmark and South Africa, shedding light on their experiences with gender, sexuality, race, and identity abroad.
“As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I found myself concealing a significant aspect of my identity to ensure personal safety,” Telesca revealed. “Moreover, as a Hispanic woman, I encountered patronizing remarks, insensitive jokes, and social exclusion based on my visible identities.”
During her stay with a host family, Telesca navigated through unfamiliar gender norms and dynamics, adapting to the cultural nuances by embracing differences, learning the Nyanja language, and practicing active listening techniques.
Another panelist, Annie Le ’24, a government major in the College of Arts and Sciences, recounted her study abroad journey in Copenhagen. As a student of color, a woman, and a first-generation scholar, Le embarked on her first international travel experience, residing with Danish and American peers in a mixed housing setup.
Sharing her reflections, Le highlighted the transformative nature of her interactions with roommates, emphasizing the discovery of shared experiences that transcended cultural disparities. She acknowledged the profound impact of her time abroad in broadening her worldview beyond her familiar surroundings.
For Le, navigating her identity as a person of color in Europe was a distinct experience, marked by heightened self-awareness and the need for vigilance. The exposure to a new cultural milieu prompted introspection on her heritage, upbringing, and societal positioning, challenging her to reassess her identity amidst a foreign backdrop.
Both Telesca and Le advocate for embracing discomfort and venturing beyond one’s comfort zone. Telesca emphasized, “Dare to explore unfamiliar territories and embrace the discomfort, for it is within these transformative encounters that we reshape our perspectives and foster genuine connections across diverse backgrounds.”
Le echoed this sentiment, underscoring the significance of engaging with the local community to forge meaningful connections and cultivate a sense of belonging in uncharted territories. The event promises further insights and guidance from returning study abroad students, offering a platform for prospective travelers to seek advice and engage in dialogue.
Megan DeMint serves as the new media manager for Global Cornell.