Albany State University News June 2016 ASU Around the Globe Albany State University students are going global this summer through study abroad opportunities offered by the ASU Office of Global Programs. Twenty-eight ASU students will encounter rich, international experiences in the world's most vibrant countries. Throughout the semester, students will blog about their travel experiences. This is the first in a series of blog posts about Trinidad and Tobago. The Trinidad and Tobago study abroad opportunity is led by Irma J. Gibson, associate professor in the ASU Department of Social Work. Global service learning experiences, cultural lectures by University of West Indies (St. Augustine campus) professors and a variety of tours, social outings and excursions are integrated into the curriculum to ensure students' academic success. The Trinidad and Tobago study abroad program is from June 13 to July 12. Cherysh Green-Caldwell, Social Work graduate student, Trinidad and Tobago Summer 2016 Studying abroad is truly a dream come true. I am a married mother of four children, ages 8 to 17, and I am employed full-time as an executive director of a non-profit agency that serves children and youth. In addition to my home and work responsibilities and the coordination of my 30-day absence, I struggled financially to make this study abroad endeavor a reality. Many times, I wanted to give up; but, I was encouraged by Dr. Irma Gibson, my social work professor, to explore every donation and sponsorship possible. Though it has been challenging, I am grateful that I am here. It has already proven to be worth the struggles I have endured. My ultimate goal is to return to my humble roots to show other young women who dare to dream that with perseverance and determination, all things are possible. The past few days have been wonderful. Life is incredible here in beautiful Trinidad and Tobago! The people are friendly and welcoming, the landscape is beautiful, and the culture is festive and fantastic. This week, we have had the opportunity to do what I think is the most important thing when visiting any new country: TASTE THE FOOD! Trinidad and Tobago has an array of amazing foods, ranging from traditional Caribbean meals to Indian cuisine, from Arabic delicacies to authentic Chinese dishes. These amazing foods are teeming with flavors of peppers, curry, tarragon, ginger, and shadon beni. Shadon beni is a leafy herb native to the West Indies and Central America. It is widely used in the cuisine of these regions, and it also appears in Asian foods. It tastes similar to cilantro, with a somewhat stronger and more lingering flavor. The distinctive pungency is especially popular in Trinidad, where shadow beni is used in traditional salsas and dressings, along with hot sauces. The cuisine flavors are robust, spicy and savory, bringing a kick to every dish. From comfort foods to delicacies, Trinidad and Tobago has a taste for every palate. Kierra S. Allen, Social Work graduate student, Trinidad and Tobago Summer 2016 The opportunity to study abroad was made possible through the support of my professor, Dr. Irma Gibson, who serves in the ASU Department of Social Work. I knew a global experience would not only enhance my understanding of how to work with diverse populations, but, would also provide personal growth. My goal for the study abroad trip is simple: I will keep an open mind and maintain self-awareness. Since our arrival, I have had amazing encounters with Trinidadians. The culture is rich with a diversity that is unlike the diversity we boast about in the United States. The civility and respect for not only the phenotypical differences of each other, but, also the religious beliefs is an enlightening experience to witness in Trinidad and Tobago. The richness in the cuisine is reflective of the boldness and warmth present in the Trinidadian culture. I look forward to the new experiences I will have in Trinidad and Tobago; it is surely a worthwhile experience thus far. SANDRA M. PHOENIX Executive Director HBCU Library Alliance sphoenix@hbculibraries.org<mailto:sphoenix@hbculibraries.org> www.hbculibraries.org<http://www.hbculibraries.org/> 404-702-5854 Atlanta University Center Woodruff Library 111 James P. Brawley Drive SW Atlanta, GA 30314 Honor the ancestors, honor the children. Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hbculibraryalliance1/ Check out "PULSE!" The HBCU Library Alliance's News Source! - https://hbculibraryalliance.wordpress.com/ Register here http://hbculibraries.org/html/2016meeting-form.html for the October 10,11 Membership Meeting in Atlanta.