Student Spotlight- Gregory Miller

 IIC Student Spotlight

Gregory Miller

 

1) What undergraduate college did you attend? Where?

University of Colorado, Boulder

2) What was your undergraduate focus?

History (European/Cold War), and Music (Percussion)

3) How did you become interested in the IIC Program?

I currently work with a number of DU alum, one of which was part of the IIC program. After the suggestion to check the program out, I was drawn to the flexibility in the degree program as well as a new approach to working within an international context. The focus on the methods and content of the way we communicate across cultures offered what I considered to be a practical approach to better understanding the issues related to globalization.

4) What is your favorite place where you've traveled/lived so far?

I was a Peace Corps volunteer in Mongolia. The connections with the community members and my adoptive family made my experiences there by far the most interesting place to live.

5) Do you have a dream job? What?

I don’t necessarily have a dream job, but maybe a line of work. I want to work in support of local voices gaining footing in discourse around development and human rights.

6) What is your favorite part about the IIC program thus far (i.e. favorite class)?

My favorite class has been Culture, Gender, and Global Communication. Weekly panels including groups able to discuss a variety of issues add real-life context to the discussion.

7) Anything else you would like to share?

The IIC program offers a great opportunity to study a variety of subjects, both within the field of Communication and International Studies, and provides context to the theoretical applications that we study.

Festival of Nations Recap

(From left to right: Jessica Murison, Michael Dabbs, and Xiaoyi Zhu)

This weekend, the IIC department participated in DU's annual Festival of Nations.  This free (and family friendly) event supports the diverse cultures and experiences of the DU community and supports cultural exchanges through music, art, dance, food, and informational displays.  The IIC department showed its support via an educational display about the IIC program and shared some of its students' travel experiences with a slideshow of photos.  DU students and community members were able to come to the table to learn about the program and ask any questions they had about IIC.  The table sat three volunteers who are all IIC students: Xiaoyi Zhu, Jessica Murison, and our newest IIC student, Michael Dabbs.  The volunteers represented the IIC department in a buoyant, amiable, and intelligent fashion.  

Thank you to Xiaoyi, Jessica, and Michael for all of your hard work.

Should we "Ban Bossy"?

Should we "Ban Bossy"?- Chelsi Hudson

The Title of this Huffington Post article, "When A Boy Asserts Himself, He's a Leader, When A Girl Does, She's Bossy," is much like the controversial Suave campaign that we watched in class. The difference being instead of featuring beautiful, impeccably dressed models posing as professional business women (the majority of whom are white), it is focused on young girls from varied ethnic and racial backgrounds. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/03/11/ban-bossy-video_n_4937367.html
This topic is always one of interest for me. Undoubtedly because I grew up being stereotyped in this way, and in some ways, continue to be so in my adult life. These amazing girls posit the very real effects, as well as possible future ones that will result from societies continued acceptance of the gender hierarchy that assigns specific personality traits as acceptable or unacceptable according to gender. One girl says, "Here is where I will not lead the defense of a groundbreaking case." Another says," Here is where I wont ask the questions that change the conversation," and another, "Here is where I will doubt myself," "Here is where I will stop raising my hand," "Here is where I will start being interrupted."  In First Impressions of Sarah Palin  (D. Harp, et al) reference the Gender schema theory as to why this is.
Gender schema theory emphasizes the dominant role of gender in not only grasping but also processing knowledge and beliefs and guiding behavior in a given culture (Steinke, 1998). Bem’s gender schema theory explains how girls and boys exposed to cultural definitions of maleness and femaleness—embedded in discourse and social practices—will identify with them. 
Because it is embedded in our knowledge that men have historically been the decision makers, the leaders, we have accepted that certain behaviors are associated and justified by this fact. And because women are not associated with this image in our minds, they experience an inverse reaction. While men are assertive, driven, hardworking, and motivated, women are pushy, aggressive, know-it-all, and bossy. So who cares about what people think of you, ladies? Who cares that they call you these names behind your back and attribute your drive or success to negative assumptions of who you are? After all, gossip and judgement are specifically female traits anyway, right? Wrong.
As these girls point out, this male/female, masculine/feminine associations guide their behavior, and determine social practices. Because girls listen to and are aware of the value of masculinity over femininity, but only when appropriated by men, it affects their behavior, their identity, their beliefs about the world.
This video calls for the banning of the word bossy, which is a bit impractical, but warranted all the same. You never hear a guy being referred to as bossy. It is a very gender specific word. Maybe if it was (banned), young girls would not stop raising their hands, asking the questions, and refuse interruptions. Maybe not using that word, and others like it, could have a drastic impact on female self esteem. Maybe, just maybe, it would begin to question the hierarchy that exists, and work to start leveling the playing field

Intercultural PR-Cultural Sensitivity in the Health Industry

Cultural Sensitivity in the Health Industry- Yessenia Cano

In class today we discussed the importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness in the health industry of a country, specifically the United States. M.D. Chen’s article talked about a Chinese family that suffered generations of liver cancer and how it was the children of the parents who started digging for information and trying to learn about different treatments for their liver cancer. The article went on to talk about the complications cultural insensitivity can cause with someone’s health because the doctor is unaware of how to interact with this person with a different background and they don’t realize something is wrong (Chen, 2009).

This reminded me of my personal experiences with doctors in the U.S. and how some were completely insensitive to my culture and made assumptions without trying to get to know me. For example, I was raised in a conservative religious Mexican family, and so I was extremely shy when getting a physical or talking about personal issues with the doctor. Because of this the doctor assumed there was something mentally wrong with me and I was required to go to counseling. Many of my family members don’t speak honestly with their health care providers because they either can’t speak English well or they don’t trust this person. It was an interesting debate in class, whether doctors and hospitals should learn to adapt to these different cultures or does the individual have to adapt and accept the western health practices? It should be a balance of both, but this is just another example of the importance of intercultural communication and learning how to be open and sensitive to those that are different from what we are used to.

Resources

M.D. Chen, W. Pauline. (16 July 2009). Bridging the Culture Gap. The New York Times. Retrieved on 24 February 2014 from http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/16/health/16chen.html?_r=0&pagewanted=all

Intercultural PR- Every Voice Makes a Difference

Every Voice Makes a Difference- Yessenia Cano

           

Requena’s article analyzed Transparencia, an independent organization seeking to report the truth in politics in the late 1990s and early 2000s in Peru. I felt that the article showed the importance of letting your voice be heard and not assuming that just because you are part of the minority you cannot make a difference. Politics were very corrupt in Peru, and the president at the time, Fujimori, was rejoicing in the moment and planning to run again for presidency. Through bribery, Fujimori influenced all major media sources in the country to always report him in a favorable light, and so Peru’s citizens were robbed of knowing the real situation. In 1996 Transparencia was created by ever day Peruvians with the mission to spread the truth of the situation to all regions of Peru and make sure that journalists received the hard facts and people could begin to see the corruption of Fujimori. They published a paper called Datos Electorales where they publicized accurate information regarding the elections and such, and with time Transparencia was able to establish itself as a neutral trusting organization that people relied on, and was a key player in Fujimori’s downfall (Requena, 2008). This was a good article in showing that anybody can make a difference in communications, you don’t have to be in a position of power to be heard or to change life for good. Granted it takes a great effort and work, but if a neutral organization was able to help in overthrowing a corrupt president, than anything can be possible!

Resources

Requena, Carlos Jose. (2008). Transparencia: The Importance of Neutrality Providing Objective Information in a Difficult Political Situation. The Institute for Public Relations. 163 – 180.

Intercultural PR- Do I Really Know What I Want To Do?

Do I Really Know What I Want to do?

Jen Murphy

I came to Denver shortly after spending a school year teaching English at a private school in Nablus, Palestine. I liked the idea of international education programs, but especially the idea of being the director of my own study abroad program. I studied abroad in Cork, Ireland, during my undergrad days and absolutely loved it. When I came to DU I was sure that this was what I wanted to focus on. And then, well, it got a little fuzzy.

My first month here I was working full-time as a graduate student assistant for the University of Denver Publishing Institute. Classes weren’t in session yet, so it gave me the perfect opportunity to work and explore Denver, as part of my job duties were running errands and serving as a chauffeur to guest lecturers from across the U.S.  I loved working with these graduate certificate students and I loved working with people from all different areas of the industry, including editors, independent publishers, literary agents, among many others. I started thinking, wait, is this what I want to do?

When the full time part of the job ended, I picked up another job at the DU library working in the Stacks department. When I wasn’t at the Publishing Institute office I was pulling books for patrons, re-shelving them, and completing other tasks involved in the upkeep of the library. Then I thought, well I loved volunteering at my local library before I joined the Peace Corps, am I better fit to be a librarian? I do love to read…

Once school started I had less time to ponder such questions, as I was working these two jobs on campus, as well as taking two classes per quarter. While two classes doesn’t sound like a lot to an undergrad, in grad school two classes is full-time and kept me busy. I was taking one of the required classes for the program, International Communication, and a course called Strategic Management of Communication Campaigns. Through this course in strategic communications I learned more about the public relations profession, as well as what it is like to work with a local NGO with international programs. Does this mean that I should get into nonprofit management?

This quarter I am taking two classes in communications: Foundations in International and Intercultural Communication and International and Intercultural Public Relations, as well as a class in International Project Analysis at the Korbel School of International Studies. I have realized this quarter that I could work in the publishing industry, or in a library, or in the PR or nonprofit sector. The most important thing for me is realizing which parts of these different career options I like and don’t like, and hopefully I will find something that combines most of them. Who knows, I could end up working as a library consultant for a nonprofit organization in the Middle East or West Africa. I do know I want to work abroad, my time in the Peace Corps and teaching in Nablus taught me that. Now I have two more quarters to fine tune my future plans.

Intercultural PR- Sports in Intercultural Communication

The Importance of Sports in Intercultural Communication

Jen Murphy

Any person who has ever spoken with me, even for a few minutes, knows one thing: I have a mild obsession with sports. The use of the word mild is to make myself feel better. I am obsessed. Talk to me after a loss of my favorite baseball team, the Oakland Athletics, especially in the fifth game of the playoffs to the Detroit Tigers AGAIN, and you will begin to understand why my roommate avoids talking to me after such losses. Now, why would I bring this conversation into a discussion about intercultural communication or intercultural PR? Because a major avenue for discussion among and between groups who often don’t speak the same language is sports.

I served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Ethiopia during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. I used this event to bond with members of my community by going to the recreation center and other sports cafes around town to watch these games with them. Even if we weren’t rooting for the same teams, as I was rooting for the U.S against Ghana, we still could enjoy watching them together. Ultimately, the U.S. did lose to Ghana, but I continued to go to local establishments to watch with my community members. It was a way to show them that we had this one thing in common, our love for football, and it also helped build my credibility with the youth in my town who saw me watching the games.

The World Cup and the Olympic Games are both international sporting events that are about sports, yes, but often include a high level of public diplomacy. This quarter, in the Intercultural PR class, we have discussed the Sochi Olympics nearly every day. We have discussed the national branding that has gone into promoting the games, how Vladimir Putin has presented himself and responded to the storm of public and media attention when he passed anti-gay laws prior to the Olympics, as well as looked at what different media outlets have focused on. The U.S. media has mainly focused on the problems in Sochi, including human rights issues and infrastructure issues, and has used it as more of a way to show how Russia still isn’t in the same league as the U.S.

I haven’t been watching these games consistently, and actually have only watched a few of the hundreds of hours of coverage for various reasons. One reason I haven’t watched as much of the coverage as in previous years, is that these games seem to be much more about the political and social issues in Russia and less about the actual events. Sports should be an avenue to spark friendly competition and a place to talk about something that brings people together, not tear them apart. Don’t get me wrong, I was just as upset as the next person when the U.S. women’s hockey team lost in overtime, after leading 2-0 with less than four minutes left. However, that game will not likely be what remains in the public consciousness. Instead the face of these games is Vladimir Putin, and not the events or athletes themselves.

Intercultural PR- Importance of Identity With Communication

Importance of Identity With Communication- Yessenia Cano

            Have you ever pondered in all seriousness who you are? What kind of identity do you identify with and why? In one of our communications class the professor gave us an exercise to write down at least ten major factors that make up our identity, and I must say, it was a very difficult exercise to complete. It was difficult because it was hard to put my identity in words and to specify factors that influenced my identity. In Curtin et al’s article they discuss how identity is formed through relations with others and heavily influenced by daily situations that will constantly be changing our identities. So why is identity important for communications in general? It’s important, in my opinion, because you have to be aware of who you are yourself in order to have a connection with others and to have successful communication. Especially in intercultural and international communications where the different customs and ideals might challenge you, having a strong sense of your identity will help you be more open to others and will even help strengthen your identity. To have meaningful communication with others they usually want to understand you fully, so how would they be able to understand you if you yourself have issues with your identity? I discuss this from a personal level because I myself have identity issues from being a Third Culture child and sometimes I find myself having trouble connecting with others, but communications classes are teaching me and broadening my knowledge to learn and strengthen my communication skills that will help me also find my true identity.

Resources

Curtin, A. Patricia, Gaither, T. Kenn. (2009). Contested Notions of Issue Identity in International Public Relations: A Case Study. Journal of Public Relations Research. V. 18, 1. 67 – 89.

Intercultural PR- Is a Truly Global PR Campaign Possible?

Is a truly global PR campaign possible?

In our International and Intercultural Public Relations class, we were asked to evaluate a case study of a public relations campaign, assessing the strengths, weaknesses and overall success of the campaign. I chose the WWF ‘Earth Hour’ International PR campaign that won Best International PR Campaign at the Cannes Lions 2009.

In brief, the campaign sought to promote lasting change and positively impact the environment by asking the world to switch off its lights for one hour on March 28, 2009. The movement began in Australia in 2007, went global in 2008, and in 2009, the campaign was transformed into a “vote” (by switching off your lights) for international leaders to take action against climate change. The main goals were to reach 1 billion+ people, 50+ countries and over 1000 cities and to influence global leaders to address global warming.

As an international campaign, the WWF had to appeal to things that are common among all cultures, taking a culture-general approach. With globalization, commonalities are often linked to the English language, and more Western norms and customs. Therefore, taking the approach of a democratic election and using English as the base language appealed to the largest audience. However, in doing so, the campaign was limited in its reach. Not only did it alienate non-democratic and non-English speaking countries, but it also relied heavily on social media, excluding countries with little or no Internet access.

The WWF’s biggest success was releasing control of the campaign and putting the resources in the hands of individuals to deliver the message in culturally appropriate ways that appealed to people like them. One suggestion for improvement would be to take a more holistic approach to the issue of climate change. Perhaps choose specific issues from regions all around the world and then, playing off the success of interactivity, ask communities to share what climate change means to them or how it has affected their livelihood.

So, while I believe that WWF did an excellent job on this campaign, I do not believe that it was truly global. What do you think could have made it more inclusive?

Student Spotlight- Adam Stuart

IIC Student Spotlight

1) What undergraduate college did you attend? Where?

I achieved a BBA from The Eastern Michigan University's College of Business

2) What was your undergraduate focus?

My focus was in Information Technology and Systems Management, with a minor in Psychology

3) How did you become interested in the IIC Program?

I had been searching Peace Corps Fellows programs for a unique mix between International Studies and Journalism, and having lived in Colorado before Peace Corps, I was especially drawn to Denver.

5) What is your favorite place where you've traveled/lived so far?

I usually answer that Turkey is my favorite place to visit.  I used to love Italy for many of the same reasons, including excellent food, a Mediterranean climate, mountains, history, and a complex cultural component; however, the commercialization of Italy under the European Union is homogenizing much of the best of Italy.  My favorite place to live, although I stayed for several months in Istanbul, will likely always be my little village of Chisenga in Northern Malawi, where I served in the Peace Corps.

6) Do you have a dream job? What?

My dream job would be to run a specialized NGO here in the United States, the details of which are still being hashed out.  Either that, or I would love to be an international journalist.

7) What is your favorite part about the IIC program thus far (i.e. favorite class)?

Professor Thompson's class is extremely engaging and a wonderful foundation in communications for a non-communications undergrad.  Just the same, my favorite class at Korbel has been Conflict Resolution with Karen Feste where we simulated a live, 8 hour negotiation between delegations of Palestine, Israel, the Russian Federation, The EU, and others.

8) Anything else you would like to share?

I'm thinking of taking the documentary film making class in order to get some hands on experience going along with some journalism, too.  However, a class in investigative journalism or photography for journalists would be amazing!

Intercultural PR: What you really want to know about the IIC Program

What you really want to know about the IIC program- Annetta Crecelius

Let me begin by saying that everyone’s experience is different and I am simply sharing some of my experiences in the hopes that you may learn from them.

Uh, Grad School is Expensive

First of all, as you are probably already aware, grad school is expensive. Take the time to “Know Before You Owe,” compare the cost of tuition to the amount of financial aid. And, check out the government’s tips on figuring out the best loan repayment plan. Help you help yourself. Get started with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the Office of Financial Aid’s Scholarship Search, and by asking about IIC specific scholarships. Make an appointment with the Office of Financial Aid to discuss your options.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

The IIC program sounds perfect for you, right? Well, you don’t really know until you ask. Take advantage of the opportunity to talk to current students. Ask around. Find out as much as you can about the program before you get started. Not only will this help you make your decision about applying, but it will also help you navigate the program if you decide to pursue it.

It’s Flexible, Like a Gymnast

The beauty of the IIC program is that you can tailor it to fit a wide variety of careers, including public relations, digital media production and journalism, government diplomacy, international education or study abroad, and the list goes on. One of the unique aspects of the program is that it is split between the Department of Media, Film & Journalism Studies and the Josef Korbel School of International Studies. On the positive side, you get to decide which classes you want to take. On the down side, it is difficult to get into Korbel classes. You should be prepared with A, B and C options. But like any degree, you get out of if what you put into it.

Well, That’s Not What I Expected

News flash, you’re going to be writing a lot, so you might want to brush up on your skills. Be prepared for a massive amount of reading. Also, in some classes, you’ll have projects that you absolutely love and feel are completely relevant to real-world experience. And, in some classes, you’ll feel like grad school is a big waste of time and money. I think it really depends on your preference for theoretical or applied study, as well as your professors. Ask around to see if anybody has taken a class you’re interested in or which professors are their favorites. Lastly, class schedules are not well-suited for those working full-time while taking classes. Luckily, I have a very understanding boss that has allowed me to manipulate my work schedule to fit my school schedule. Be prepared for some early morning and afternoon classes or be prepared to have limited options for night classes.

The Best Part Is

If you are really interested in a deeper awareness of all cultures, other nations, and even, a better understanding of yourself, then this is the program for you. You will be challenged to see the world through a different lens. You will be challenged to question your own perceptions. Your classmates will become allies, friends and colleagues. Together, you will share stories and experiences that will further propel your education. You may be intimidated at first, but know that every single person shares the same fear.

Student Spotlight: David Boggs

IIC Student Spotlight

David Boggs

1) What undergraduate college did you attend? Where?
 

I went to Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ.  

 

2) What was your undergraduate focus?

Starting out on a music scholarship for Trombone Performance, I switched to History my second year.  I ended up graduating, though, with a BA in German Language and Literature after an intensive study abroad program in Konstanz, Germany.

3) How did you become interested in the IIC Program?
 

I became interested in the IIC Program while I was living in Istanbul, Turkey, teaching English.  I had just finished my Peace Corps service in Armenia the year before, and knew that I wanted to study in a field that dealt with cross-cultural studies, public relations, and international relations.   I also wanted to get a degree that would propel me into the international field.  The IIC program had everything I was looking for.

4) What is your favorite place where you've traveled/lived so far?

Turkey is probably the most interesting place I've traveled and lived.  Filled with ancient wonders of the world, including Greek and Roman ruins, the minarets that dot the sky-line, open bazaars that line the roads and inviting people offering tea and coffee are enough to make you feel like you're on the adventure of a life time.

5) Do you have a dream job? What?

I could see myself working as a cross-cultural trainer and advisor, but I would ultimately like to work as a Foreign Service Officer or with the UN.  Something international that can have a positive influence on policy and change.

6) What is your favorite part about the IIC program thus far (i.e. favorite class)?

I like the diversity and range of classes offered.  I've been able to develop a strong base in PR and communications this year that will help enhance my course work in Korbel and my international studies courses.

7) Anything else you would like to share?

I'm just an average guy that enjoys hiking, biking, brewing and hanging out with my dog!

Great News! David recently began his internship.

"This quarter, I just started my new internship with Alumni Relations. The official title is Alumni Communications Assistant, and I work closely with the Communications Director, the Donor department and the staff that manages event planning and print media. I was brought on to help organize the recent venture into Social Media and developing a strategic approach to its management. I also work closely with event planning in regards to coordinating messaging tactics and reaching out to our Alumni. I do some work with graphic design as well as I assist in updating new forms and organizing and updating our photo collection for use in print and online media.  One of my favorite projects I've worked in thus far is going through special collections and identifying photos and articles from DU's old publications to use for the big 150th anniversary events.  It's going to be a busy year, but full of interesting and unique projects."

Intercultural PR- Why Involve Culture in Communication Studies?

Why Involve Culture in Communications Studies?- Yessenia Onac

When I started classes for my degree of International and Intercultural Communication (IIC) I honestly did not know what to expect. All I knew was that I wanted a career that involved other cultures and getting to explore them and learn from them. As I sat through a public relations (PR) class, culture was brought up in one of the articles and in class we discussed the significance of including culture in PR strategies. This was in one of the articles, “Whether one is conscious of it or not, culture has a deep impact on the way every human behaves, and that includes the way we communicate with fellow human beings in both interpersonal and organizational settings” (Sriramesh, 2004, p. 15). This sentence stood out for me in the fact that I have lived my life as such. As a third culture person, I had to constantly be aware of American culture along with my own Mexican culture. It was crucial for me to understand how to communicate with others outside of my culture, like knowing that Americans didn’t take formality as seriously when speaking to elders (however a few did require respectful communication like older teachers, principals, police, etc.); I had to learn to distinguish being overly friendly as is customary in Mexican culture and learning not to invade American’s “personal space.” Not everyone is born into the same situation of growing up learning to deal with different cultures, even though culture is everywhere whether we realize it or not as the article states. PR is just one of many formats of communication that is heavily influenced by culture; PR campaigns have to vary from region to region because a slogan may not be interpreted the same way in both places, it may not even have the same language! It is because of this, knowing culture is so important at an individual or international level, that IIC is a great degree for those passionate about culture and want to strengthen their communication skills and culture awareness in various ways.

Resources

Sriramesh, Krishnamurthy. (May 2004). Culture and Public Relations: Formulating the Relationship and its Relevance to the Practice. Culture and Public Relations: Links and Implications. 9 – 19.

IIC Student Spotlight- Samantha Koch

IIC Student Spotlight

Samantha Koch

RPCV Mozambique, 2011-2013

1) What undergraduate college did you attend? Where?

The University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa

2) What was your undergraduate focus?

Major: Geography
Minor: Spanish

3) How did you become interested in the IIC Program?

I fell madly in love with a class during my undergrad, "Intercultural Perspectives," and I asked the professor if she knew of any graduate programs of a similar subject matter with which I could blend my interest in public health.  She gave me a list of grad programs and after a little research, I realized that DU's IIC program was the best fit. 

4) What is your favorite place where you've traveled/lived so far?

In the States: Washington D.C.  I interned at Peace Corps Headquarters for three months in 2010, and my 21-year-old self thought I could live out my yuppie years here.  I greatly appreciated the cosmopolitanism, the near absence of political apathy, as well as the eclectic culture, activities and people.  I actually cried the night before I flew back to Iowa to finish my bachelor's.

Out of the States: Mozambique.  Never before have I met such nurturing and hospitable people, eaten outstandingly flavorful food from the simplest ingredients, or taken in the beauty of vast, white sandy beaches.  

Continuing to travel is a major dream of mine.

5) Do you have a dream job? What?

I suppose I always imagined myself working in Behavior Change Communications (BCC) for an organization like Population Services International (PSI), since behavior change and reproductive health have been my focus for the last few years.  Honestly, I'm open.

6) What is your favorite part about the IIC program thus far?

I've been so fortunate to have an intelligent, diverse and friendly cohort and faculty.  I'm also excited about next quarter's classes. 

7) Anything else you would like to share?

I finished my Peace Corps Service in late July and returned to the States mid-August.  Returning from ex-patriot life comes with a readjustment process and potentially some challenges.  Thus far, I've eased back into life in the states.  I've discovered how life has changed here (especially in a technological sense), and I'm still discovering how I have changed.  Overall, it's been fairly easy to get back into the swing of life here even though all I can think about is where I'll go next.  

International Communication course blog

Hello IIC Community!  The following blog is from the Fall 2013 quarter's International Communication course (required for those of you who may be considering the program).  This is one of the many stimulating topics we discussed this quarter and there's more to come.  Enjoy.

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

To Hell With Good Intentions

In response to our recent class topics and discussions about natural disasters and the communication theories that tie in to them, I remembered an address I had read given by author Ivan Illich to the Conference of InterAmerican Student Projects (CIASP) in Mexico in 1968. His audience is made up of potential volunteers for the organization, and takes place in a decade where young people of affluent families participated in what Illich refers to as “mission vacations.” To the students, his declarations were direct and concise. To me, they were extremely thought provoking, and more importantly, still relevant.

“The road to hell is paved with good intentions,” is a proverb believed to be coined by 12^th century French abbot Bernard of Clairvaux. Clairvaux was informing his congregation that it is still possible to sin even if you are acting in good faith. Illich re-conveys this idea to the students in attendance, along with his no-holds bar statement of their pending hypocrisy if they choose to continue with their missions.

Illich tells the crowd;

“[he] does not doubt the enormous good will of the U.S. volunteer, however, his good faith can usually be explained only by an abysmal lack of intuitive delicacy. By definition, you cannot help being ultimately a vacationing salesman for the middle-class ‘American way of life’ since that is really the only way of life you know.”

This quote is representative of modernization theory, and is an example of discourse of the dominant paradigm. Illich is supporting the idea that the West, or the U.S. specifically, assumes that the western model is applicable elsewhere, and is important to “development.” It also refers to the thought that rationality and progress are synonymous with economic growth. So, in order to ‘develop’ your specific country or region, one must follow the western model of modernization. This thought is reinforced by the idea that economic growth, which will be achieved if the western model is applied, proves societal rationale and progress.

He then informs the student audience that simply the existence of organizations such as theirs is offensive to Mexicans. This is a good example of our (American, Western) egocentric nature, the concepts of our self-identity and the “other,” and how we use these things to establish our superiority, and consequently, generate more knowledge about us. The peoples that we are intending to aid/develop/assist end up becoming props that reinforce our idea of self, and how we view ourselves. We see these selfless endeavors as living proof of our supreme generosity, our innate humanitarianism shining through. But in all reality, this is just another example of how we use our position to further our own agenda, and leave those that we are supposed to be “helping” even farther behind. Because ultimately, helping relationships are power relationships.  Mexico, or other developing countries for that matter, are unable to pay us back in kind, so the depth of the leverage we hold over them continues to deepen. I believe this is in part what Illich was referring to as “an abysmal lack of intuitive delicacy.”

I had often contemplated the lasting effects for the country and/or region once we vacate our missions or volunteer cites. But, being from middle/working class America, I lack the foresight to predict such things. This speech was the first time I had the opportunity to be exposed to such an account:

All you will do in a Mexican village is create disorder. At best, you can try to convince Mexican girls that they should marry a young man who is self-made, rich, a consumer, and as disrespectful of tradition as one of you. At worst, in your "community development" spirit you might create just enough problems to get someone shot after your vacation ends_ and you rush back to your middleclass neighborhoods where your friends make jokes about "spits" and "wetbacks."

The next point made prompts me to consider the underlying initiative for our actions. In our multitude of organizations, we spend considerable amounts of money training the volunteers that we have to be able to assimilate to the culture, and withstand the culture shock that typically ensues. But, Illich points out how odd it is that no one has ever thought about investing time and money into educating the Mexicans or other indigenous peoples we encounter in order to prevent them from suffering from the culture shock from us. His idea was simple, and logic, profound.

Illich ends his speech with a reiteration to the audience to please, abandon their plans to volunteer. He doesn’t endorse giving up all hopes for humanitarian efforts, but to focus their “good-deeds” on their homeland, which during the 60’s, was not lacking for economic, social or political discourse.

I want to leave you with the thought that although I find Illich’s argument fascinating, I am in no way saying I do not support global humanitarian efforts. The different programs that exist today have made monumental steps toward mutual respect, understanding, and ultimately peace among nations. But, I do fear unexamined humanitarianism. Because no matter how noble our intentions may be, that road is paved with them.

Written by Chelsi Hudson

IIC Student Spotlight

LeeAnn Schmerber- 1st year IIC Student

1) What undergraduate college did you attend? Where?

Elon University in North Carolina 

2) What was your undergraduate focus?

Major in International Studies, Minor in Communications

3) How did you become interested in the IIC Program?

I always knew that I wanted to get a Masters, it was just a matter of picking the right time and the right school.  I'd moved around a bit after college and over the past few years decided I wanted to make Denver home, at least for a while.  The jobs that I had weren't putting me in direction that I wanted career wise, and DU offered a program that fit what I was looking for.   So it seemed that the timing and place were perfect.

5) What is your favorite place where you've traveled/lived so far?

I've never really been anywhere I did not like and have a ton of favorite places, all for different reasons.  Right now, I'll go with Iceland -  the geology is fascinating - I went snorkeling in a fissure between the North American and European plates, the water was crystal clear.  It was beautiful.  

 

6) Do you have a dream job? What?

Study Abroad Adviser 

7) What is your favorite part about the IIC program thus far (i.e. favorite class)?

What I think I've found most interesting is that I'm taking two very different courses (International Communications and Major Issues in International Security - in Korbel) and the content of the courses has merged a few times throughout the quarter, especially at the end.  It's interesting to read different perspectives on similar issues.  I feel like the quarter has come full circle.

8) Anything else you would like to share?

I'm just really happy that I made this decision.  I quit a full time job (with a career path, albeit one that I did not want) to become a full time student.  Even though it was a career path that I wasn't passionate about, it was security.  The decision to come back to school was hard but as I mentioned above, the timing and place were right.  I knew that this was the best opportunity to find the career that I really wanted.

IIC Orientation

IIC Orientation 2013

It was a bright and sunny Saturday afternoon in Denver, with the smell of fresh cut grass wafting in the air, when the 2013-2014 International and Intercultural Communication (IIC) students, faculty, and staff gathered for orientation.  The students congregated at the University of Denver’s air-conditioned International House and sat in a circle of comfortable sofas and chairs as they introduced themselves to their peers.  Each student present gave a short description of his or her exceptional accomplishments and interests, and each student emoted anticipation for what is to come this academic year.  The intimate orientation, facilitated by Margie Thompson and Kate Burns, featured an overview of the IIC program as well as appearances by department faculty members and the Dean of the Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences. 

To kick-off the learning process, the IIC students participated in a cultural exercise, which featured a real and current development issue in Costa Rica that is close to Margaret Thompson’s heart.  The activity dealt with development, land rights, and finding common ground between stakeholders.  In groups of three, the students worked to analyze and create solutions via the perspectives of various stakeholders in the issue.  The activity necessitated the focus, participation and expertise of each IIC student and created a sense of teamwork.  Overall, the findings were creative, thoughtful, and overlapping.

The exercise focused on current tensions along the southern Carribbean coast of Costa Rica with historic land rights and mega tourism “development”:

“A growing number of people in the coastal communities fear that their small paradise in the southern Caribbean is being severely threatened by the current government, land speculators, transnational mining and oil interests and mega tourism developers.  Although 90% of the land in the Talamanca region is within some kind of wildlife or indigenous reserve, manipulation is taking place behind the scenes, designed to create confusion and pass laws in the name of ‘protection’ that would weaken or even eliminate historical land rights of coastal villages.”

Student groups represented the following stake holder groups:

Afro Costa Ricans, ICT (National Costa Rican Tourism Institute), Foro Caribe Sur (community forum), Talamanca Chamber of Tourism, small entrepreneurs, and environmentalists)

Each of the stakeholders named concerns for building capital, protecting the environment, and maintaining local support and culture.  Below is a summary of their analyses:

1)      Afro Costa Ricans

-Needs/concerns:  job scarcity; no proper land titles; vulnerable eco-tourism/paradise and heritage; subject to discrimination and racism

-Potential solutions:

Establish guidelines for accessing land titles; having more afro costa rican representation within the government; Work with locals to establish alternative tourism

Hold cultural heritage celebrations; have more legal representation/create more voice for locals

2)      The ICT (National Costa Rican Tourism Institute)

-Needs/concerns: Money, community support, favorable laws

-Potential solutions: Donating a portion of profits to health and education efforts; involving local (and claimants); providing jobs (education and health)

-Developing advisory board; establishing community funds; developing business cooperative company

3)      The Foro Caribe Sur

-Needs/Concerns: Funding for health, education and tourism promotion (not large corp. development project); maintain current laws and land rights; maintain integrity of land-environmental issues

Potential solutions:

-Small scale tourism development projects (avoid cruise ships, etc.); education on laws/land rights to avoid manipulation; laws/plans to distribute tourism revenue for education, health, etc.

-More emphasis on locals in terms of health and education; better communication with community members; locals gaining pride/ownership in their community

4)      The Talamanca Chamber of Tourism

Needs/concerns: Make money and economic improvement; control development as opposed to outside control; maintain community ownership

Potential solutions:

-Physically limit development for purpose of protecting land rights and environment as well as maintain ecotourism; hire locally; smear campaign against outside development

-Provide employment for community members and entrepreneurs in the community; develop ecotourism destinations that incorporate wildlife refuges; plan cultural festivals to celebrate local culture

5)      Small entrepreneurs

Needs/concerns: Maintain profits and competitive edge; maintain the integrity of the environment to continue their eco-tourism industry; maintain special access for local businesses (taxes, permits, etc.)

Potential solutions:

-Establish a chamber of commerce/coalition that represents the interests and needs of already established and/or new locally owned businesses; establish an environmental council that is part of the decision-making process in regards to environmental protection from extractive industries; establish an “eco-tax” on corporations or businesses that have an environmental impact that goes back to preservation

-See “eco-tax”; mapping of the community to demonstrate the different areas/businesses/industries; establish a traditional authority to represent the costa rican cultural groups.

6)      Environmentalists

Needs/concerns: Legal protection; sustainability of National Ecotourism; Preservation of National Resources

Potential solutions:

-Political Coalitions/Boards/Steering Groups (costa riquisimma!); Economic rule of law, clear borders, return financing; Cultural: Indigenous, Afro-Costa Rican, Spanish (Education, museums, interthematic promotion)

-Human rights: Education, Decent labor; historical locale propriety; expanding semi protected lands; Adjusting rates and laws

The exercise turned out to be a great way for the students to learn that there are no easy answers in international development (an area where some of us may work someday).  This message lingered over the IIC Department as the orientation came to a close with a savory meal and conversation between the students.  This in-depth orientation left the department, students and faculty, more acquainted and prepared for the 2013-2014 academic year.

IIC Peace Corps Leadership

Happy Week 3!

As the first quarter continues to roll on, a couple of first year IIC students have taken on leadership roles in the University of Denver’s Peace Corps Community (DUPCC).  Our very own David Boggs has taken on the position of DUPCC President and Jennifer Murphy is the new VP of Communications and Public Relations.  David and Jennifer are both elated to be leading the DUPCC and have provided the following words:

“Hello everyone! It's that exciting time of year again as we all settle into our routines here at DU, and I am happy to announce my recent induction as President of the DU Peace Corps Community. We also have a great new committee of VP's that will be assisting in organizing events and activities throughout campus and the Denver community. During the year, DUPCC traditionally holds fundraisers to help assist local causes and international charities. We also coordinate functions to help promote Peace Corps' 3rd Goal of "helping Americans better understand the people and cultures of other countries," as well as further relating our services abroad as volunteers. This year we're kicking off with a bang as we launch into plans to help the recovery efforts for the floods that hit the Boulder community. To learn more about us and keep up with events, visit our page at http://www.du.edu/peacecorps. For more information about the U.S. Peace Corps visit http://www.peacecorps.gov. Best wishes to everyone as we start off this quarter! We're all looking forward to a great year!”

-David Boggs

“I am excited at the proposition of working with people who have or will devote at least two years of their life to service work. I hope our group will be able to do some amazing things in the community and network with other organizations who are working on awesome projects as well. I look forward to getting the word out about what the group is involved in through the website and Facebook pages as the VP of Communications and Public Relations.”

-Jennifer Murphy

Congratulations to our IIC, Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Leaders!