International Portfolio
Studying Abroad in Fiji
Sustaining Humans and their Environment
Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I made during my undergraduate career. Being an anthropology major, introducing myself to new cultures and ways of living is one of my favorite parts about the field. Being able to experience another culture was something I will never forget.
Homestay: Kamave Village
The beginning of the trip involved us, students, staying with a native Fijian family. We each got to experience life as a part of a village, where we did village chores like catching fish, scraping coconuts, and preparing for dinner. We had to wear traditional clothes in Fiji, as that was the appropriate dress style in the village. Shoes are not commonly worn, but we had to make sure the soles of our feet never faced a villager, as this was considered disrespectful. Kids were also not allowed to be touched by the visitors, so whilst playing tag, we had to pretend to tag them. Kids are sacred in this village, and the villagers take raising their children very seriously.