By Zubda Zia, Pakistan
This is Zubda Zia from Kinnaird College for Women, Pakistan. I am one of the 18 delegates who was selected to attend the prestigious “Study of US Institutes (SUSI)” Scholars Program on economics and sustainable development. This scholarly program is funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and is being conducted by the Institute for Training and Development (ITD).
It’s the third week of our stay in the beautiful city of Boston. Each day we’ve had rigorous interactive sessions covering different cultural and socio-economic aspects of American society followed by visits to the most happening places that capture the real vibe of the city. America, to me was always a “Melting Pot”, till, only during one of our sessions, I was introduced to a more relevant term that describes America best. America is a big bowl of “Mixed Salad” where each vegetable and fruit, retaining its exclusive taste and texture, contributes to making it delectable. During my stay here in Boston, I have tasted this mixed salad and enjoyed every bit of it!!!!
I have met Latinos, Hispanics, Africans, Pakistanis, Chinese and Indians, who seem to have gelled so well yet have retained their individual identities. I think this is exactly what makes America the “Dream Destination” where anything and everything is possible. Who could ever have imagined that an Indian boy would get off his seat in a subway and offer it to a Pakistani woman. This is exactly what I experienced on one of my trips yesterday. I wish the politicians could learn something from this unpretentious gesture and let us live in peace and harmony.!!!!!
Interestingly, my scholar friend from India and I sit together during our sessions and enjoy an amazing camaraderie unlike what has always been projected in the media!!!!
SUSI Scholars program has allowed us to debate, argue and dismiss baseless misperceptions & lack of knowledge about each other.
Let me share one of the most heart-warming anecdotes with you, which might help you understand how grateful I am to have been provided this platform where nationals of all different continents have come together to think beyond their caste, creed, color, religion, and nationalities. Although Boston has been treating me well, I got this bad allergy which left me with itchy skin and blotchy spots all over my body. Our program director Katie, who has been going the extra mile to ensure everyone’s at ease, guided me through the health care process. All of the fellow scholars observed my discomfort because of the allergy and that very evening, I had anti-allergy pills and ointments from Slovakia, Costa Rica, Hungary, and China, placed right outside my room. I was touched!!!!There were these amazing HUMANS who cared for their fellow human being and stepped forward to offer help. If only states could learn to respect and stick up for each other this world would become heaven!!!!!
Today is Tuesday, 18th of July. Before I walk you through the intense sessions we had today, let me give you a sneak peek into yesterday’s visit to the Massachusetts State House, which is one of the oldest State Capitols in continuous use in the country.
A young, well-prepared intern took us for a guided tour of the beautiful landmark which holds immense historical significance for the state of Massachusetts and the U.S. She walked us through different historical eras. It is so fascinating to see how Americans have preserved their history and present it to the public in the most interesting and interactive way. I am a tourist, but I learnt so much about American history just through that one comprehensive tour of the well-preserved building. Landmarks such as the Massachusetts State House continuously remind Americans of the values their founding fathers had envisioned for the country. Acquaintance and strong connection with history is amiss in my country. Maybe we need to learn from the Americans the art of teaching history in an engaging manner, but it’s imperative that we keep our generations rooted with their history.
I was amazed to know that this monumental building has often been used to host different rallies and protests. We witnessed one yesterday where some environmentalists stood outside the State House to get their protests registered. This is a testimony to the fact that “Freedom of Speech” is guaranteed to the the American citizens. For many of us in the developing world, this is still a privilege allowed to some and denied to the majority.
Today, Dr. Katie gave an in-depth session about the “Education System in the US”. It was interesting to learn about different pedagogies used by the educators to inculcate the analytical and critical thinking skills in the American students. What has fascinated me the most about SUSI program is the candidness of all the guest speakers, who have generously allowed us to question them about the American systems, norms, and values. It is simply remarkable, how they have been honest about the boons and banes of American capitalism. Katie explained how “school shopping” can be a stressful process because parents need to relocate themselves in the area that offers the best schools. She candidly explained how the education system has contributed to widening the gap between the rich and poor in the country.
The day ended with Dr. Javier Corrales’ brilliant session on US Democracy. For someone like me who hails from a relatively new democracy, it was fascinating to learn how Americans struggled to attain democracy and are still struggling to retain it in its entirety. Dr. Javier’s optimism was so refreshing. I would certainly take back with me a strong hope that one day my country will also stand tall as a strong democracy where citizens’ right to freedom of speech is respected and ensured.
I am short of words to express my heartfelt gratitude to Katie, Javier, Mark Protti and all the members of the ITD Team and especially the US department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs for this brilliant opportunity. This, I think, is the best investment the US can make in spreading goodwill. I will return as the ambassador of peace and will share with my students and colleagues the enriching experiences of my stay in your beautiful country. Here’s to many more laughs, grueling sessions, assignments and homework, bonding over scrumptious food, beaches and museums, crazy shopping trips during the remaining part of our SUSI Scholars Program 2023…………
God bless America!
God bless us all!
All opinions expressed by the program participants are their own and do not represent nor reflect official views from the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State, or of the Institute for Training and Development, Inc.
Heartening account by a brilliant Pakistani scholar on how the American Dream is manifested in a ‘mixed salad bowl’ where the real value is in the diversity of backgrounds and experiences resulting in unlikely yet beautiful coalitions – the essence of any exchange program.
Kudos to SUSI for facilitating such enriching experiences!
Totally agree with you! The freedom to assemble and express is a beautiful sight… The fire in the people to stand up for causes they believe in and the faith that they have in the system leaves one in awe actually. People’s Voices Matter! Just knowing that your voice has value and will be heard can mean so much to a person.
Also, I felt the same connection as you felt with the diverse communities…. Afterall, we are all humans!!! Whether we be from any region, culture, caste or creed…. N then there’s the connection of being a woman, a mother, a daughter, a working class person… So many levels where our emotions surpass other meaningless boundaries….
May humanity above all be the slogan and justice for all be the order of the day
More power to you Zubda
Brilliantly explained , and what a spectacular program and initiation by US of inclusivity and exposure. Indeed this country is a melting pot of different cultures .
What a beautiful perspective
It’s amazing to see how America has so successfully been able to implement and execute the mixing of the cultures and yet been able to keep their identities distinct.
Glad to hear about this beautiful experience
This is a wonderful perspective!
very well written all about ut session with American salad bowl. feel like to join u .keep it up .
Beautifully expressed truth! I hope my country follows the same suit and attain the best form of governance to facilitate tolerance, patience and equality among subjects. It is heartening to see how SUSI is sharing and training people from around the world. I hope this tradition continues.
Soo proud of you ma’am. Truly, an inspirational read! The idea of cross cultural interaction itself is so motivational and getting to know your experience further amplified it. It is, indeed, an extraordinary milestone that you have achieved. More power to you! I hope, everyone gets an opportunity of such a sort to represent their country in front of others. Here’s to many more achievements ma’am✨
Congratulations, Ma’am for achieving such a wonderful milestone, making us all and Kinnaird College proud. Indeed, experiencing unity in diversity is a dire need of the contemporary world, I hope more peole get such a golden opportunity to further spread the message of peace around the world.
Wow…. an amazing read…enjoyed reading every bit of it.
Well-deserved participation!
The programme clearly demonstrates diversity, equity, and inclusion!
Keep shining dear Zubda!
This is an incredible achievement, Ms Zubda, and I couldn’t be happier for you!
Your dedication, hard work, and passion have been recognized, and it’s no surprise that you’ve been selected for such a prestigious scholarship. This opportunity is a testament to your outstanding abilities and the remarkable contributions you’ve made in your field.
Undoubtedly such programs promote cultural relativism which encourages seeing cultures with an open mind, it can foster greater empathy, understanding, and respect for other cultures.
Wow…. an amazing read…enjoyed reading every bit of it.
Well-deserved participation!
The programme clearly demonstrates diversity, equity, and inclusion!
Keep shining dear Zubda!
I enjoyed reading this account and could relate to the sentiments and experiences having lived both in Lahore and the UK. Here we also live side by side with different nationalities in harmony and believe we have more similarities than differences.
Thoroughly enjoyed the salad bowl, you described everything perfectly thank you for sharing your inspiring & enriching experience.
It’s absolutely fascinating to meet people of all backgrounds ethnicities races nationalities in US, I enjoyed the yummiest Iranian cuisine at Rayhoon, excellent Turkish food in New Jersey , great Japanese & Greek in Rhode Island. Zuma New York on Madison Ave ; New York’s Wolfgangs is another great eating place courtesy a great KCite Ghazala Khan.
Thoroughly enjoyed this taster of a salad that celebrates diversity without compromising unity. The dedication and hospitality of ITD to make this initiative a valuable and unforgettable experience for scholars around the world is commendable. I can’t think of anyone more deserving for this opportunity than you,Zubda Zia.Wishing you many more triumphs ahead.
Really enjoyed reading about your experience. The program sounds like a wonderful opportunity to learn and grow.
Interesting and enlightening viewpoint.
It seems a good initiative via this program for learning and exchanging each others perspective.
It is definitely exciting to hear about the experience. It’s great to see that this experience has brought an understanding of different cultures. The word mixed salad definitely does provide a good explanation of the mixed ethnicity in usa.I think this experience must be very uplifting and it’s a proud moment to hear that you have reached this opinion.
I would say that people in usa are more cosmopolitan! As we live together and grow to understand each others cultures and religion , we become more accepting and adaptable to each others culture.
It’s great to hear that you got the chance to experience and make new friends.
This trip much have opened up the limited horizon people experience in Pakistan in regards to culture and religion itself.
I am glad that you got the opportunity to learn and understand through this experience and evolve !
Exceptional, inspiring and stimulating !!! It must be a great educational experience.
Working across cultures can be a truly enriching experiencing, allowing others to learn about perspectives and traditions from around the world. Bonding over similarities and differences can help you to become a global citizen, abandoning prejudices or an ethnocentric world view—something that is increasingly valuable
Thank for sharing your experience with us.
As a Pakistani and former student, I’m incredibly proud of Ms. Zubda Zia for representing our country at SUSI.
Reading about the cultural exchange and camaraderie among scholars in the SUSI program was heart warming and inspired hope in me.
Ms Zubda, thank you for highlighting the power of perspective! How lovely it must have been to see different view points but common underlying respect.
Truly enjoyed reading this account of Prof. Zubda’s experience in the United States. We are such a divided world these days and peace and acceptance of each others differences are hard to come by. Your experiences and thoughtful reflection on them are a testimony to the importance of engaging with each other with an open mind and heart. Thanks for the work you are doing to make this a better world.
well described and really enjoyed the read. zubda through your experience at this stay in USA we visualize the hospitality of ITD and have glimpses of multi regional people with memorable behaviour is awesome. wishing you doing best more and more in future.
Amazing article about America and all the positive things you have mentioned! Your writing beautifully captured the essence of the country and highlighted the many wonderful aspects that often get overlooked. The way you showcased the diverse culture, the acceptance , and the respect was truly inspiring. Your experience in America shone through every word, and I could feel your genuine love and appreciation for this great nation. Keep up the excellent work and continue spreading positivity through your writing.
What a brilliant share, congratulations to the organisers and all the participants at SUSI.
I can relate to the sentiments shared by Ms Zubda in this blog where she expressed surprise over the freedom of expression granted to the US citizens and the lack of same to citizens of developing countries like our own.
Wishing for stronger ties with developing countries and more such opportunities for education enthusiasts like Ms Zia to ensure that the educational pedagogies are shared with, developed and enhanced in the developing nations as well.
this is such a refreshing read.. the best part is that people across the boundaries are oblivious to the political divides and we get to know this only after meeting them in a different setting. keep up the great work Zubda!!
Congratulations on the SUSI exchange program Ma’am! This post about the experience is incredibly inspiring. The way people from various nationalities and backgrounds came together to interact and learn from one another is a powerful example of the importance of cross-cultural understanding and communication.
Thank you for sharing your journey, and I hope more people get inspired by it and actively seek opportunities to engage in meaningful cross-cultural exchanges.
a breath of fresh air in these chaotic times. Great write up Zubda. Best wishes for a prosperous and progressive future for both countries. keep up the amazing work.
Loved reading the blog! Especially the part where you mentioned the gelling of different ethnicities contrary to what the media portrays, the world definitely needs to know more of this. Hearty congratulations for this beautiful accomplishment! Keep shining!
Excellently elucidated! Engaging in such a cross-cultural environment must be an extraordinary educational experience. Working across cultures can be profoundly enriching, providing a unique opportunity for individuals to embrace diverse perspectives and learn about fascinating traditions from all corners of the globe.
Thoroughly enjoyed it till the last. The way you portrayed your journey and experience of SUSI program, breaking the norms we’ve been manipulated to believe is a real struggle.
Thank u for giving us a taste of this Mixed Salad bowl , no one could have done it better than u Zubda now only wish that we learn some good values from these people and start utilising it to make our nation a better one
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your experiences during the SUSI Scholars Program. The metaphor of a “Mixed Salad” to describe America’s diverse society is both creative and insightful. In a world that often seems divided, your blog beautifully illustrates the power of coming together for each other. Through acts of kindness and genuine care, we discover that our similarities far outweigh our differences, reminding us that we are all part of a global family, capable of making a positive impact on each other’s lives. Thank you for sharing your enriching experiences. Best wishes for the rest of your journey!
Beautifully expressed by a brilliant Pakistani scholar!
Dear Zubda, such an engaging and encouraging piece of writing. Not only sharing your experience but also giving hope for a better tomorrow. Diverse cultures are beauty of this world. They should be preserved through mutual respect and tolerance . Thank you for being a peace ambassador of Pakistan and living my dream. Keep growing.
A deep understanding of diversified cultures and their socio – economic aspects surely does enlighten one and gives such a POSITIVE vibe as well as it strengthens the faith in HUMANITY. The ideal world where different religions can co-exist , grow and develope.Channelizing and implementing this enriched expertise in our local society will be a greater challenge and value addition too.
I really enjoyed reading the vivid account of your study trip to the USA. You have shared some interesting observations that shed light on the many facets of this multicultural society. I hope more professionals and practitioners from developing countries can get such an opportunity to explore, learn and benefit from such initiatives of the US government.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading about your experiences. Thank you for sharing something positive , in this world which is only highlighting hate and negativity .
Your analogy of America as a “Mixed Salad” where individuals from diverse backgrounds retain their unique identities while creating something harmonious, is both poetic and profound. It reflects the true spirit of unity that the world should strive to achieve. Your narration of encounters with these people from various backgrounds and cultures are powerful reminders that humanity transcends borders and stereotypes. It is these real and genuine connections filled with kindness and care that can inspire positive change, and you legitimately wish for politicians to learn from such experiences and work towards a world of peace and harmony.
May you enjoy your remaining time in SUSI Scholars Program with more enriching experiences, laughter, and learning. I am sure that your return to Pakistan will mark the beginning of a new chapter in spreading goodwill and understanding among your students and colleagues.
What a wonderful insight into the program and the people. The personal side to this piece makes you feel as if you are actually spending time with the scholars. Zubda you are making us proud like anything!
Heartiest congratulations to Prof. Dr. Zubda Zia of (Kinnaird College) Pakistan for this excellent write up.
So proud of you ma’am!
You’ve always been an inspiration. I am happy that you got to experience this.
Dear Ma’am,
I have really enjoyed and loved the way you have shared your experience of the SUSI Scholars Program .Your work has always inspired me at its core.It amazes me to see the diversity of cultures in America and how every individual holding unique characteristics is working as a one unit.A wonderful piece of thought and indeed an eye opener .
what a beautiful piece of writing! A great initiative for a better world. Hopefully more to follow in the future, providing platform to all to attain peace and harmony
What a beautiful read and a perfect name that is given to it “Salad Bowl”
Truly impressed with the way the Americans are giving that space and environment to other cultures to gel in with each other so comfortably. Together they are growing and flourishing.
The freedom of speech is so important to turn our thoughts into execution. I truly wish that in Pakistan we also experience that privilege
Wonderful reading experience!