On The Virtual Aspect

When we first learned that the Field Trip was canceled, we were crushed not to visit Cuba and learn about their culture. However, when we were told that there would be a virtual Field Trip, we were glad they had found a way for us to still have somewhat of a trip. At first, it was not clear what it would be, and we were not sure what to expect from it. However, after we were given more information about it, we expected to learn more about the island and its people. But, we expected that the class would be like a standard-setting, and we thought it would be impersonal. In the end, it was not at all what we expected. First, the virtual field trip was not in a traditional classroom setting. The teachers made sure that it would be different from regular classes and would be able to interact with the people in Cuba. Also, contrary to our expectations, the trip was very personal since we were able to interact with the people in Cuba and ask them questions. Thirdly, given the unique format of this year’s trip, we gained more flexibility in how we visited Cuba with the MLK organization. Given that, we had the chance to gain knowledge through different channels of wisdom; academics, public educators, field workers, non-profit coordinators, and even an ex-professional clown!

On top of this, through the online format of our trip, we were able to partake in the Cuban experience in a significant way: in using the funds collected by the NorthSouth Studies program to support the grassroots work of the guest speakers, we met. To that effect, our learning on this Caribbean island was more meaningful than ever as we were able to support the passion channeled in each Encuentro. Having learned the past semester the many ways in which Cuba is an inspiring alternative, we were given the opportunity this semester to partake, through various fields, in the vitality and ambitions of Cubans.

We will undoubtedly remember this trip as an insightful experience on Cuban reality in the years to follow. To have been able to study, look at the theories that shaped Cuba, and understand the individuality of Cubans granted us a more thorough understanding of an island labeled with such differing terms on the international scene. From watching documentaries on the 1959 revolution to chatting with people navigating through the struggles of the embargo, this online field trip filled the gaps that literature could’ve never carried out fully. Indeed, our guest speakers shined a light on humanity at the very base of the innovative society we call Cuba.

By: Magaly

By: Heidi