End of Semester Reflection - GS

            For Grace and me, it was initially difficult exploring our research project because we did not know, with three topics, how they all related to each other. Our topic is gender rights, climate change, and livelihood resilience. It was difficult for us to see their connection, but after investigating on the ActionAid Zambia’s website, we were enlightened to their relation and after this starting point, we were able to research more information on the issue. On the website, it stated that Zambian farmers’ food security and income are being negatively impacted by climate change, specifically the unpredictability of the weather. Most people in Zambia work in the agricultural industry. These conditions are especially difficult for women because laws in place to support their land rights are loosely enforced. ActionAid aims to support these women so that they can receive governmental subsidies for their work and have access to important information pertaining to their land. ActionAid’s website gave us more insight on the issue, but the website gives more information on the issue than specific initiatives that they have in place so our questions now are how exactly ActionAid is supporting these women and how impactful has it been. We have found information on the farmers’ views on climate change and what they have been doing to deal with it. We have also found information on the multiple land allocation laws, many of which were created to support women, but are loosely enforced. When exploring further in country, I hope to find information on groups who are working on the issue, what their perspectives are on the issue, what have they done, and what has and has not worked. I hope that our research offers more insight and information on the issue that allows for ActionAid to add to their current supportive initiatives.

            In terms of my personal learning goals for the spring semester, I have become more comfortable working in a group on a project. Before, I was nervous to work on group projects because I often had to work with people who are unreliable and do not prioritize the project. However, after working with Grace on the “Current and Historical Events Assignment” Presentation, I am more aware of her working style and feel even more comfortable working with her now that I am working with her on the final presentation, which will prepare me even more when we start researching in country. The more that we get to know each other, the better that we will work with each other. Additionally, I feel as though I have learned a lot about Zambia through the departure course and its various assignments, which in all has made me even more excited and anxious about my stay.

            My learning goal in country remains that same as before the semester began, which are to further improve my cultural competence, gain research skills, as well as insight on future education and career interests. After doing some preliminary research on my research project, I am already very much interested in my project. My primary interest is nutrition, but I see how my topic relates to it, even though it is indirect. I have never had that much interest in climate change, but to see its intersection in the livelihood of those who rely on the weather very fascinating.

            As the semester ends, I am realizing how grateful I am for this opportunity to travel to Zambia. To know that in less than a month I will be putting into practice all of the skills that I have learned thus far, which is very overwhelming, yet exciting. I am excited to get to know members of my cohort even more and I am glad that I have already made strong connections with everyone. Overall, I feel very prepared and I am ready for Zambia.