Embracing Cultural Diversity

Mohammed Aadhil Jafarullah Sheriff (left) spent an academic year at the Houston Community College under the CCIP in 2023. (Photograph courtesy Mohammed Aadhil Jafarullah Sheriff)

I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in visual communication at Pondicherry University Community College. As a participant in the Community College Initiative Program (CCIP) during the academic year 2022-23, my experience in the United States was a transformative journey of self-discovery and cultural exchange. During my time at Houston Community College, I immersed myself in various aspects of filmmaking, honing my skills in audio production, video editing and scriptwriting. The hands-on experience, combined with the cultural exchange facilitated by CCIP, enriched my understanding of the art form and broadened my perspectives on global cinema.

One of the most exciting aspects of my CCIP experience was the opportunity to share and exchange cultural values with my fellow participants. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we formed a tight-knit community based on mutual respect, understanding and appreciation for each other’s traditions. From sharing traditional Indian meals to celebrating American holidays like Thanksgiving, our interactions fostered a deep sense of camaraderie.

Moreover, my exposure to American culture allowed me to gain insights into different ways of life, fostering a deeper appreciation for diversity and inclusion. The warmth of American hospitality left a lasting impression on me and reaffirmed the importance of embracing cultural diversity in today’s globalized world.

As I reflect on my time in the United States, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the friendships forged during my CCIP journey. Moving forward, I am committed to promoting cultural understanding and empathy in all my endeavors, both personally and professionally.

My CCIP experience has enriched my life in countless ways. Through storytelling, filmmaking and cultural exchange, I aspire to continue bridging cultural divides and fostering understanding and empathy across borders.

As I prepare to celebrate Id this year, I am reminded of the values of compassion, generosity and community that define this holy month. Ramadan teaches the importance of self-discipline, empathy and gratitude, which I strive to incorporate into my daily life. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, charitable deeds or fostering interfaith dialogue, I aim to embody the spirit of Ramadan and spread positivity wherever I go.

Mohammed Aadhil Jafarullah Sheriff is a student at Pondicherry University Community College.

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