Future Therapist Learns About Culture Awareness in Spain
Posted: June 26, 2017 | Author: Abigail Wyatt | Read Time: 2 minutes
Taylor Morgan, from Irvine, California, is a junior majoring in psychology with emphasis in human services at Southern Utah University. In May, she traveled to Spain with the SUU Psychology department. The trip gave her an opportunity to see the world from a different point of view and to better understand cultural differences.
“One thing I learned in Spain was to adopt a beginner's mindset,” she said. “To observe and process another culture, it is important to try and experience things from their point of view.”
She also discovered the importance of being culturally aware and respectful. For example, one opportunity took the group to a bullfight in Madrid.
“I had a difficult time understanding their opinion on bullfighting,” said Morgan. “Although I may never come to support the event, I’m grateful for the experience and the opportunity to view this tradition through a different cultural lens.”
Morgan’s favorite experience was an expedition to Alcazar de Sevilla, the castle where Christopher Columbus negotiated with King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella to voyage to the Americas. Renowned as one of the most beautiful palaces in Spain, she appreciated the opportunity to learn history in the actual site where it took place.
Before enrolling at SUU, Morgan knew she wanted to study psychology. After taking in-depth courses such as Lifespan, Marriage and Family Relations, Professional Roles and Ethics, she discovered an even greater desire to work with people and help them. Specifically, she plans to pursue a career in the field of marriage and family therapy.
“Studying abroad helped me learn more about various cultures and norms that I plan on applying when I come across them in my future career as a therapist,” Morgan said. “For me, study abroad was an opportunity of a lifetime.”
Morgan said she will forever remember the beautiful and historically rich sites visited, the opportunity to network and build rapport with her peers and professors, and the chance to earn college credit while having an enriching experience.
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Tags: Blog College of Humanities and Social Sciences Study Abroad International Affairs
