Gladybel Morales, an NYU School of Professional Studies student has always dreamt of exploring new places and meeting new people while going on a self-discovery journey. So, the opportunity to visit NYU Abu Dhabi for her fall semester presented her with the perfect opportunity to accomplish her goals while studying.
Morales, a social science major, had only ever travelled to the countries she called home: the Dominican Republic, the United States, and Colombia. But now, Morales’ passport has included stamps from the UAE, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Oman. These new surroundings helped her see beyond the lens of news and media.
The anthropology student spoke of how visiting countries and observing people in their daily lives brought her closer to her subject area. "I learned a lot of things when studying the anthropology course. Being in a country where it's actually being studied just shifted how I see the world,” says Morales.
I'm a first-generation student…I feel like being here is a big step for me and my family.
Morales enrolled in philosophy and film courses at NYUAD, but it was the anthropology class that she most looked forward to. She conducted research while working at the NYUAD Institute helping to arrange public talks. As part of her research, Morales worked on a project focused on the consequences of conflict exposure on social, economic, and political attitudes and behaviors.
One semester is not enough
"(There’s) a lot of opportunities in terms of research or jobs on campus," Morales says. Paired with the variety of sports clubs available on campus, student life feels vibrant and engaging.
Looking at the world through different perspectives has pushed Morales outside her comfort zone and helped her grow in ways she did not expect. “I’ve made friends here that I will carry throughout my whole life, this feels like only the beginning.”
Morales is keen to return to NYUAD to continue her studies and deepen her understanding of the world around her.
