Local Students Travel to Belize to Research Politics, Culture and Economics | News, Sports, Jobs

Fourteen Commonwealth University students from Mansfield and Lock Haven campuses have recently returned from studying abroad in the Central American country of Belize. The students were part of a faculty-led short-term study abroad program that has introduced students to Belize since 2014.

Among the students who took part in the trip were Ally Fisher of Owego, New York; Paige Grant from Galeton; Charisma Grega from Mansfield; Jeffrey Griffiths of Lykens; Anissa Lytle from York; Kelly McFillin from Conshocrouch; Hailey Morgan of Mount Carmel; Erica Parks of Elmira, New York; Kat Rowen of Albrightsville; Columbia Crossroads’ Hailey Thomas; Kathryn Tice of Covington; and Brittany Tiffany of Lowman, New York, of the Mansfield location and Katie Gingrich of Annville; and Megan Reniker of Lititz from the Lock Haven site. The faculty members who accompanied the students on the trip were Dr. Jeffrey Bosworth and Jonathan C. Rothermel of the Mansfield site.

During their stay in Belize from May 23rd to June 6th, the students explored the politics, culture and economy of Belize. Students chose one of four main research questions focusing on cultural identity, globalization, sustainable development or democracy and collected field notes on their research topic during their stay in the country.

Belize is a developing country and the difference in wealth was noticed by the students. However, the students also noticed the friendly demeanor and the optimism of the Belizeans.

“We grow up with very consumerist values, thinking that money means wealth and happiness. Belize proves that is not the case.” said Grega, an elementary school education major.

dr Bosworth and Rothermel provided students with the opportunity to speak to a wide range of Belizeans, including community activists, business leaders and politicians. There were also impromptu opportunities for the students when the President of the Senate, the Honorable Carolyn Trench Sandiford, showed up while the students were touring the National Assembly to answer their questions.

The country’s small size, with an estimated population of 400,000—a size similar to that of the state of Massachusetts—allowed students to experience a variety of the country’s attractions. They climbed Mayan temples in the Orange Walk, also known as “Sugar Town” participated in the Garifuna drumming in Hopkins, cooled off in the surf of Placencia, learned how to make tamales in San Ignacio and snorkeled in the world’s second largest barrier reef off the coast of Caye Caulker – among many other exciting adventures.

“Caye Caulker’s motto – ‘Go slow’ – rubbed off on me” said Reniker, an international studies student. “I’m now more grateful for what I have and no longer bothered by what I don’t have.”

During a visit to the US Embassy in Belmopan, the capital of Belize, US Ambassador Michelle Kwan – former Olympic figure skater and diplomat – despite her busy schedule, took the time to tell the students her story and encourage them to share their to realize dreams.

For most students it was the first time leaving the country and for at least five students it was the first time on an airplane.

“I was worried at times, but it was undoubtedly the best time of my life. I’m so thankful I got to go.” said Morgan, a sociology student.

Studying in Belize is a unique opportunity and unlike most students, even those who have traveled abroad before. “Visiting Belize has given me a glimpse of a different world and lifestyle that you simply don’t get when traveling through Europe.” said Fisher, a political science student.

These experiences also help students find out more about themselves, such as Lytle, a psychology student. “I’m much more confident now and can step out of my comfort zone and talk to people I don’t know much easier than before.” Said Lytle.

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