Seneca the Younger, in all of his Stoic glory, once stated that "Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind". In the context of studying abroad, my experience thus far suggests that the benefits go much deeper than a heightened appreciation for foreign culture, alternative perspective, or contextualization; rather, my studies have proposed following to me:
Consider your reference points afresh and in new light.
We know more than we think we do, and we do not leave it behind when we travel. In the new classes that I am attending I constantly refer to what I have learned. At first I think this use of reference points is not much more than a crutch as one will look to something familiar to hold onto when experiencing something out of their ordinary. Then acclimatization gradually occurs and something changes. As LL.Ms we are in a unique position, in my opinion, because we are learning additional material which supplements our current foundational understanding of all things legal. In some ways, then, we are a blank slate awaiting instruction and guidance, but in just as many ways we are not.
The challenge is to incorporate this new information in a meaningful way. To consider our reference points from a new vantage point. How can I expand my understanding climate change in the U.S. domestic sense and international context in a way that better prepares me to engage some of the challenges waiting for me at home in Alberta? How can I incorporate U.S. policy and legislation regarding shark or whale conservation in a way that assists my own growth and breadth of understanding of this area? In other words, what is my metamorphosis?
At this point, I really don't know! But, I hope to have at least a partial answer by the end of this year... and of course, I will keep you posted!
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