At International Arts & Artists, we love hearing about the incredible experiences our exchange visitors have during their programs! From exploring new cities to experiencing different cultures, exchanges expand our understanding of the world around us. We know all about the power of exchanges — in fact, many of our team members have studied, worked, or lived abroad! So, we’re launching a new blog series called “Travel Tales from the Team” where we’ll share more about our own travel experiences.
Meet Ashley, our amazing Program Officer! Besides pursuing her Master’s degree in intercultural and international communication at American University, this native West Coaster loves wandering around DC’s unique neighborhoods and exploring its many museums. Like the rest of the team, Ashley is a living example of the benefits of cultural exchange, and has many interesting things to say about her exchange experiences!
Keep reading for more on what Ashley had to say about her experiences traveling and living abroad!
Have you ever lived abroad for an extended period of time?
Yes! I studied abroad in Barcelona, Spain, for a year during my undergraduate degree and lived in Mongolia as a Peace Corps Volunteer for 3 years. During my time as a Peace Corps volunteer in Mongolia I lived in a rural village and taught students English at the local school as well as engaged in community development activities. I lived in a yurt or "ger" and I learned to make my own fires as a source of heat, fetched water from the well, and used an outhouse as my toilet. Although I lived in spartan conditions, I enjoyed my simple lifestyle. As the only American person in my town I integrated in to Mongolian culture and learned many traditions and partook in lots of customs. Learning the Mongolian language also helped me to connect to my community members and form long lasting friendships.
What was the first place you traveled to outside of the country?
Being from southern California, the closest and most convenient place to travel outside the country is Mexico, so naturally it was the first place I traveled to outside the United States. I remember being very young and shocked by the differences of Tijuana, even though it was just a couple hours away from my home. I remember the children on the streets coming up to me yelling "chicle, chicle". At the time I was intrigued that kids my age or younger that were trying to sell me gum, to me, another child as well. I realized their situation and remembered feeling grateful for my life in the United States.
Do you have a favorite place that you’ve traveled abroad?
Every part of the world is so unique and fascinating, but I particularly loved visiting Turkey. Istanbul has an amazing energy and the others parts of the country were breathtakingly beautiful. My favorite part was riding hot air balloons in Cappadocia at sunrise looking over the uniquely shaped rock formations. Some of my favorite memories are exploring the souks in Morocco and riding camels in Mongolia.
What did you learn about yourself while abroad?
I’ve learned that I'm an open-minded person. I somehow end up always talking to locals, while listening and learning how their everyday lives revolve is always a humbling and eye-opening experience. An interesting conversation I had with a local during my time in Mongolia was the insight of an elderly Mongolian woman in my village that showed me the value of community. She said that in such small communities as hers, everyone was dependent on the friendliness and willingness of each other to help during harsh or unforeseeable situations. This idea resonated with me, as I witnessed firsthand community members selflessly helping each other and expecting nothing in return. I learned one does these things for others only because if they were in a difficult situation they would want people in their community to be there for them as well.
What advice do you have for people traveling or looking to travel abroad?
I would say research the local spots in the place you are traveling to, as these tend to have the most interesting stories and also a great way to make connections with the locals. Also have an open mind when traveling to a new destination about the food and culture.
