Student Testimonial Detail

Kendy Taylor

Global Cultures is a major like no other. My main emphasis was Latin American Studies (at the time) and my sub-emphasis was African Studies. The Quarterly Approved Course List allowed me to take courses from the various schools on UCI’s campus, including upper division courses in Anthropology, Linguistics, History and Political Science, to name a few. Though relatively small, the Global Cultures community of students and faculty is growing and I believe it's in part because of the friendly and warm atmosphere that Dr. Schwegler promotes with his undeniable support that he offers his students by availing himself so readily.

I originally entered UCI as a Psychology major, but after taking a few Spanish courses just for fun, I was so inspired by my instructors that I changed my major to Spanish during my second year. Through the faculty in the Spanish Department, I was introduced to Dr. Armin Schwegler and instantly became attracted to the interdisciplinary approach offered by the Global Cultures major. I decided to double major in Spanish and Global Cultures. Every class that I took as a Global Cultures major has proved its relevance and made a lasting impact on my education, both formally within the institution and informally around the world, literally (I also studied abroad in Barcelona (Spain) and after my graduation lived in Kenya working as a Senior English Teacher for over one year).

Since graduation, I have had the privilege of traveling extensively and working and living in countries including Spain, Kenya and my current home, Istanbul, Turkey. Next year, I will pursue a Master's degree in Anthropology at the University of London. While I have always maintained an interest in multiculturalism, I do not know that my international career would be what it is today, or nearly as engaging, if I hadn't gone through the Global Cultures program. Needless to say, I highly recommend it! If you have any questions about the major or even about living in any of the aforementioned countries, please do not hesitate to email me: kendy.taylor@gmail.com

Update: Kendy will pursue a Master's degree in Anthropology at the University of London