Global learning is not education through travel, but education of the world around you and its effect on you through an unbiased lens. If one wants to become a global student, traveling across oceans, continents, or even state borders are unnecessary. As an effect of colonization and globalization cultures have been displaced beyond their place of origin and diluted by assimilation – the absorption of a minor culture into the cultural tradition of the majority. Phenomenons such as those allow the global experience to become localized. No longer are planes and boats required to interact with another culture; by simply walking or taking the bus, you can immerse yourself in a different world.
Ethnic enclaves, communities that maintain a strong sense of ethnic or national identity within another country, like Chinatown, Little Italy, or Buford Highway will feed you intellectually and literally. As you enter these neighborhoods, puddles seem like seas and you become submerged in different languages, clothings, and seasonings – a whole new way of living.
Visiting another neighbour isn’t the easiest method of becoming a global student though. The easiest way of getting to know the world is by getting to know the people around you. We all come from different places, if not us, then our ancestors. Every person has a story waiting to be told, all you have to do is ask, but respectfully. Some past contain tramura and must be excavated carefully. When becoming a global student, it is most important you remember you are interacting with people, not cold hard text. People can become offended by invasive questions, so tread carefully and be a traveler, not a tourist. Be global.