I have always loved and appreciated travelling, regardless if it is the nearest country or a place two continents away. This appreciation is one that I started acquiring when growing up with an uncle (Indonesian-born). My father died in a tragic accident when I was just three years old, and my mother was working on a crisis-center that demanded her time and attention all the time. From my uncle, I learned Bahasa and some notable aspects of Indonesian culture.
The first chance to travel was when I was in college, in a Study Abroad initiative. In the beginning, the tasks were just administrative in nature. I absorbed a deep interest in helping multitudes of students choose foreign places for both work and study. I taught them on the nitty-gritty in the application of visas.
I spent three semesters in Ireland, and quickly realized how deeply imbibed cultural ways really are. Going to a European nation where English is a major language, gave me assimilation difficulties. From the simplest matters (like foods) up to bigger things like etiquette, it was both confusing and a bit frightening- the feeling of being from the “outside”. I will not be a hypocrite and say that I never experienced forms of discrimination…I did. However, I must say that those painful experiences were the exceptions, and not the rule.
I worked for about 6 months under a renowned Irish lawyer, and from him, I learned more about the law. Looking at both the American and Irish government structures, it was both enlightening and fun for me to compare and contrast the two. I learned of issues bearing on Irish culture, but more than that- I discovered that making observations in a country very different from mine brings crucial bits of knowledge. Knowledge that in one way or another, would affect my worldview.
When I returned home, I went to my Study Abroad program with more zest. I was promoted to one of the supervisory positions, and then, the tragic Sept 11 happened. So many countries altered their immigration laws. Cooperating with consulates all over the globe, we crammed to learn of the new mandates, while at the same time realizing that moving across nations’ lines would never be the same again.
At present, I still coordinate internships. I also took a contributing job for a student travel publication. Due to all the work experiences and learnings I’ve acquired over the years, I can now say without hesitation that I have this passion to learn. Learn about laws that link the different systems. My intention is to take up a specialization in Immigration law or International law. It is my vision to assist people in closing the cultural and bureaucratic gaps among global demarcation lines. I believe that this vision would serve as my greatest “motivator” when the time arrives for me to start my own law practice.
I am looking forward to all the challenges, as well as the fruits of hard work and commitment.
Thank you for your time. Here is wishing your School more success in all things.
Photo Credit : tomsaint11
