My Journey with the SUSI Scholar Program
By Latifa Al Fadhel, Bahrain
Joining the SUSI Scholar program has been an eye-opening experience, and it has sparked a newfound interest in political science that I never anticipated. I have always been curious about different academic fields, but political science has never been on my radar until now.
Javier Corrales’s brilliantly delivered sessions opened up new horizons for me. His engaging and insightful lectures on various political systems and the intricacies of democracy captivated my attention in ways I never expected. I eagerly looked forward to each session, hungry to learn more.
After one particularly fascinating lecture on the different types of democracy, I couldn’t resist diving deeper. I started browsing the internet, reading articles, watching videos, and absorbing as much information as possible. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. With the political climate in the USA being so dynamic, understanding the nuances of democracy felt incredibly relevant and important. Watching the elections and hearing everyone talk about political issues took on a whole new meaning for me. I felt more informed, engaged, and connected to the world.
Our visit to the Federal Reserve Bank in Boston has been a standout moment during the program thus far. The full session the spearker delivered was enlightening. We had the unique opportunity to delve into the workings of the Federal Reserve, understanding its crucial role in the US economy. The session covered topics ranging from monetary policy to financial regulation, and the knowledgeable staff patiently answered all our questions. This visit broadened my understanding of economic principles and highlighted the interconnectedness of political and economic systems, further fueling my interest in political science.
The intellectual exchange with fellow scholars made this experience even more enriching. The questions raised, and the discussions that followed each session were thought-provoking and enlightening. It was a joy to see diverse perspectives come together, challenge each other, and deepen our understanding of complex political concepts.
This journey with the SUSI Scholar program has broadened my knowledge and ignited a passion for political science I never knew I had. It’s incredible how one opportunity can change your perspective and open new avenues of interest. I am grateful for this experience and excited to continue exploring this newfound passion.
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.
