My name is Elizabeth Maldonado, and I am a senior student of Biology at Texas A&M International University. During my academic summer at Vrije Universiteit, I was able to learn and understand the dynamic beliefs and values of others.
Providing me with invaluable professional and sociable relationships, Vrije Universiteit became a part of me. Having access to a different education system provided me with a great platform to facilitate my intercultural communication. As a Mexican American student, I did not have the guidance and support to become successful in my career path. Essentially, I became inspired to help others by guiding them towards personal and professional growth. My experience living in Amsterdam and studying at VU for a month positively impacted me. I became a more competitive candidate for the research field in Human Genetics and it allowed me to be more resourceful and adaptable. Not only did I academically grew, but I also met amazing people throughout the process. Being culturally sensitive as a STEM major has helped me connect and build mutual understanding with students and professors of different cultural backgrounds. The rewards of my experience studying during summer at VU were life changing. From my academic work and making personal connections with locals to admiring the scenery, every and each experience made me exponentially grow in my career and as an individual. The summer school officer, Celia, accompanied us to a field trip at The Hague and I am very grateful for that. Everything was organized and the scenery was beautiful. I am forever grateful for all the opportunities to explore provided by the university. Therefore, I want to provide others with the same magnificent experience that I was provided with by the summer school staff. I feel that I will be an asset to the summer team because I am determined to help others and provide them with opportunities to explore and learn.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. I will be happy to help!
