Mariana Medina

I grew up in a Nicaraguan-Panamanian household in Miami, FL. Having the influences of both cultures has really shaped me to being who I am today. As I was growing up, I traveled to Nicaragua every summer. While I was there, I had a lot of fun. But, I did also get exposed to the poverty of the country. I remember seeing kids my age living in such tough conditions: some without homes, clothes, electricity, or even their families to support them. I believe this experience is what has driven me to dedicate my life to doing something to help those in need. My career goal in life so far is to work for non-profit organizations or governmental organizations in project development in order to create programs to help those in need in our country and even outside of the country.

The opportunities the Global Learning Medallion program has given me the chance to refine my cultural awareness, communication, and competency. I have always considered myself to be accepting and understanding of people who are different from me, but this program has allowed me to gain the knowledge to solidify my understanding. I believe that one cannot help a situation if they have no knowledge of it, and I feel that this program has definitely helped me grow upon this knowledge. Over my experience within the last three years of my colledge career, the Global Learning program has allowed me to cultivate my passion to give to and help others in a more informed manner.