I believe my biggest challenges regarding traveling to and living in another country and culture will stem from my sharp distrust for strangers. I carry a mentality that is a consequence of working with law enforcement in Tennessee, America’s state with the highest per capita violent crime. I tend to be very closed off and terse with people I do not know well, and I believe I will need to overcome this habit if I am going to integrate well into the host culture. I think the greatest tool I have at my disposal moving forward is the power of observation. One can learn a lot by watching, listening, and sincerely paying attention to the mannerisms, words, and deeds of those around them. I also need to be slow to judge anyone harshly.
As per what components of my identity I will take with me to the host country, I will bring the whole thing. Some of my personal values that I would like to share with others are a feeling of humility, of loyal friendship, and of respect and esteem for all.
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