More Than a Trip: Preparing to Lead Globally
- Marquetta S.
- May 10
- 2 min read
Updated: May 12
We’re almost there! Our bags are packed, passports are in hand, and our Horizons scholars are getting ready to embark on a global leadership journey through Morocco and Spain. I can’t express how excited I am to be co-leading this experience. Watching our group come together over the last few months has already been powerful—and we haven’t even taken off yet!
Before we go, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the greatness that has already occurred, especially since our preparation has been just as meaningful as the journey we’re about to begin. Our pre-departure experiences were filled with intention. We started with the basics—travel logistics and what to expect when living abroad—but we quickly moved into deeper connections.
One of the most impactful moments was when we explored intercultural competence using our group results from the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI). It gave us a chance to look inward and reflect on how we navigate difference, how we show up in unfamiliar spaces, and what it means to lead across cultures. Our scholars approached this with so much honesty and openness. Granted, it wasn’t easy, but it was genuine. We talked about how cultural learning doesn’t start when you arrive somewhere new; it starts with self-awareness, curiosity, and a willingness to grow.
We also made time to build community and have fun because our group's dynamics are most valuable to our experience. We had a few socials to help us connect outside of the classroom. One of my favorites was a game night filled with group questions that had us laughing, reflecting, and learning unexpected things about each other. Then we turned it up a notch with a dance social where we talked about the symbolism of dance in different cultures. This was followed by an opportunity to learn a few line dances that we plan to take abroad and share with new friends in Morocco and with our host families.
Along the way, we’ve been practicing Darija Arabic and Spanish, not just to speak, but to connect. We’ve leaned into every moment together with energy, humility, and excitement.
So while the plane hasn't left the ground yet, something has already taken off. The growth, the bonding, and space for our growth. And this is just the beginning!
Stay tuned to our blog through June 2nd as our scholars reflect, journal, and bring you into this journey with us. We can’t wait to share all that we’re learning, experiencing, and becoming.
Our Horizons scholars are rooted and ready for take off!
Signing Off (for now),
Marquetta S., Co-Lead
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