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From these and other responses, it is
evident that participation in the cultural
immersion study tour had a profound
impact on participants. Many of the
students suggested that this experience
provided them with a new perspective
on people in the Middle East, Muslims
in particular, and this knowledge will
be beneficial in their chosen profes-
sions. Terms such as advocate, social
justice, and empathy were routinely
used in the responses, as well as the
words kindness and compassion.
The final survey question asked partici- Visiting a school in Jordan (Photo Credit: Sarah Thomas and Christy Lyons Graham).
pants to state the most significant take-
away from the experience, and answers case, understanding and acceptance of learning from people who are different
highlighted the depth and breadth of Islam, what cannot be overstated is the from them. In providing these oppor-
the impact. One participant responded personal growth participants experi- tunities, BSU will play a role in creat-
that conflict was caused by people and enced while in Jordan. Study partici- ing cross-cultural awareness, but, more
not religion, while another said the pants were consistent in reporting that importantly, will provide a powerful
experience illustrated the kindness of they now have a better understanding influence on students’ perceptions of
the people and had a lasting impres- of Islam and are able to view Islam the world around them and their abili-
sion. It should be noted, however, that through a lens that is not afforded to ties to bring about positive change.

The concern that Americans lack

a broad worldview is one reason

why it is essential for universities

to provide opportunities and

encourage student participation in Sarah Thomas is Assistant Professor in

cultural immersion programs. the Department of Secondary Education
and Professional Programs.

the majority of the responses touched most Americans. The friendships cre-
upon how an opportunity to experi- ated and the desire to return to Jordan
ence another culture is what enables can only support the belief that partici-
someone to truly understand another pation in a cultural immersion project
culture, and this is what ultimately had has lifelong implications for those who
the most impact on our students. participate and, by extension, for people
who later interact with participants.
The importance of study The results of this cultural immer-
tours and study abroad sion study tour provide an impetus to

While the findings of our small pilot challenge BSU and other institutions to Christy Lyons Graham is Professor in the
study support the idea that participa- encourage students to visit places where Department of Counselor Education.
tion in a cultural immersion study tour they may be the “other” so they can
impacts one’s worldview, and in this confront their beliefs and worldviews,

34 Bridgewater Review