by Veronica Sedano
My name is Veronica Sedano and I am a junior at the University of Washington. I plan on majoring in Medical Anthropology and Global Health with a minor in Diversity. I was born in Chelan, Washington and lived in a small town 10 minutes away called Manson. In 2001, my parents decided to move to Everett, which is where we reside now. In Everett, I graduated from Mariner High School. I’m a very outdoorsy person, I like going on walks, going jet skiing, and I absolutely love playing soccer. I’m very family oriented and spend a lot of my time with my family.
I chose to participate in the OMA&D Tahiti study abroad program for many reasons. I mentioned above that I am a very outdoorsy person, I love nature, and enjoy the sunshine and what better place than Tahiti. I also know a lot of people who have traveled to Tahiti with Val in previous years and they had nothing but great things to say about the program. They all commented on the unity of the group and how this program focused on identity and finding more about yourself, which are things that I am looking forward to. Most importantly the reason why I chose Tahiti is because I am fascinated with the topic of diversity, as well as culture and traditions. I am Mexican-American and culture is a very important factor in my life. I am looking forward to learning more about the Polynesian culture and the topic of the Polynesian Diaspora that will be explored throughout the course. In addition, I am excited to be conducting my independent research on alternative medicine and how the Tahitian population uses alternative ways to treat and heal diseases.
Planning for this trip hasn’t been too difficult, but it was definitely something new. I am the first one in my family to attend college, therefore, I didn’t have the opportunity to be guided by one of them through the process. The most important part in planning this study abroad was making sure I was going to be able to pay for the trip. I am an Achiever Scholar so between the financial aid that I am offered and my scholarship I am able to make this study abroad trip a reality.