In many parts of the world, Americans are often seen as ethnocentric with a lack of cultural understanding. Maybe they don’t feel the need to become more culturally-aware because they belong to a globally-dominant culture. While the U.S. claims to embrace different cultures, I’m not sure most Americans live up to that, but I want to.
Continue reading “How Being American Has Shaped My Worldview”
I’m a people-person. I enjoy meeting people and one way I do that is by dating. Naturally, while abroad, I’ve wanted to continue my dating life (heck, I’m single and ready to mingle!). Here’s what I’ve learnt from the last few years of dating in Europe…
Continue reading “Lessons I’ve Learnt From Dating Abroad”
The year is 2020. Some people call it the Digital Age. Others call it the Internet Era. By any name, our time is one marked by globalization, a process of interaction and integration between various stakeholders worldwide.
Economically-speaking, it has spawned raw materials and investment opportunities on a global scale. Politically, it has altered diplomatic relations with the rise of intergovernmentalism, evidenced by organizations such as the United Nations, European Union, and North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Seemingly a result of these alliances, the rate of cultural diffusion has never been higher, correlating with rises in global migration and tourism.
Enter me. Among the countless byproducts of globalization is my life. In 1997, I was adopted from Russia by American parents. Especially given my roots, I grew up with a global mindset which later led me to live abroad. To date, I’ve thrived in the globalized world. I’ve reaped its benefits. Yet, I’ve also witnessed its shortcomings.
Continue reading “Globalization Kind Of Sucks”
It’s Tuesday. I have a steaming cup of black tea (with milk, of course) next to my right hand which is scribbling down the week’s schedule into my diary. Downstairs, the front door opens and closes. I hear footsteps climbing the stairs as I reach for some scrap paper. In walk two tall, 40-something-year-old men who smile not out of politeness but out of true appreciation for being here.
Continue reading “I Get Paid To Have Fun”
It’s December 1st and I’m wandering through my little Czech town to soak up the Christmas cheer. In a store, I hear Mariah’s “All I Want For Christmas” playing as I stroll through aisles of glitter and sparkle. To my left are rolls of elegant lace ribbons, as dainty as snowflakes. To my right are seasonal dish towels, embroidered with reindeer motifs. In front of me are mugs and napkins with Santa’s likeness printed on them. It’s just like home. And that’s the problem…
Continue reading “A Very A-Merry-Can Christmas”
I’ve always prided myself on my loyalty and integrity in relationships. These days, however, my faithfulness is coming into question but not in the way that you’re probably thinking.
Continue reading “I Feel Like I’m Cheating”
