Challenges and Takeaways from my First Few Months
I am a proud New Yorker. I come from a family of matriarchs who work hard to make sure myself, my siblings, and my cousins are always taken care of. Being the eldest daughter, granddaughter, sister, and cousin in my family comes with a lot of responsibility, but it has also allowed me the chance to create opportunities for my family. I am the first in my family to traditionally attend college, and I plan to make the most of my accomplishments. Before attending the University of Michigan, I attended community college in NY where I received my A.A. in English shortly thereafter. My first international experience was when I had the opportunity to study abroad at a prestigious university in England. Prior to declaring my major at U of M, I wanted to be an English teacher. However, attending an out of state school and studying abroad opened my eyes to how big the world actually is, and I wanted more for myself and family so that they can also have the opportunity to share experiences similar to mine. I received my BA in international relations with the intent of studying international law, a career I hope will take me around the globe…and it already has! I started at the DREAM Project as the LUCEROS and Monitoring & Evaluation Fellow in Cabarete in Fall 2021.
The most significant change I have experienced in working with my program area is the communication style used both in my program and in the DR in general. The method of communication is a lot more informal and personable than what I've experienced working in the US. To reach beneficiaries, we call them and send them messages on WhatsApp, with their permission, and Whatsapp is how we receive important documents from their families. This is a lot more informal than what I've experienced in the US. I often receive messages outside of work, as well as informal text messages from families usually thanking me, praying for me, or asking how I am. I've noticed the same openness, connection, and informality when encountering people in the community. If you are simply buying something from the store, people who are also waiting in line may try to spark up a conversation with you, or the store attendant will ask you how your day is and carry on conversation as if they know you. This is something I had to get used to when I first arrived. Connecting with the people around you by making conversation is very important in Dominican culture and creates a sense of community I haven't otherwise experienced. Saying that this is a change for me is a bit of an understatement; it was definitely a culture shock that I experienced. Back home, if someone randomly strikes up conversation or texts your personal number to wish you a good day when you only know them professionally, it could be taken wrong. In the long run, I plan to use my experience with this communication style to connect with people more openly during my stay here but also bring some of that sense of community back home. Though it's a change of pace, I have benefited from experiencing this first-hand, because I get a glimpse into Dominican culture and communication styles.
About the Author: Melanie Hawkins, LUCEROS & Monitoring + Evaluation Fellow
Melanie Hawkins recently graduated with a BA in International Studies with a minor in Linguistics from the University of Michigan and also holds an AA in English Language and Literature. Melanie plans to attend law school in the future, focusing on foreign policy and international litigation. When she is not working on her academic career, she enjoys dancing, traveling, and fostering animals. Melanie is working with the LUCEROS Documentation program and the Monitoring & Evaluation team as a part of DREAM’s 2021-2022 Fellow cohort.