Jordan River Forum

As a reader of the IDS and as an advisor who facilitates an international experience for over 1,000 students a year at Indiana University, I feel compelled to respond to Nic Halverson's article, "Slumming in Atocha" that was in the June 11, 2001 IDS. I am mystified as to the point of the article.\nHis rambling about his neighborhood and home do not contribute any learning to the reader. The reader, unless familiar with Atocha, will not know that Nic chose to live in a working-class neighborhood of Spain since he fails to mention this. How does his living experience compare to that of living in a working class neighborhood of a large U.S. city? What has he learned of the culture of his neighbors? Yes, he's having many new experiences and his eyes are most likely being opened to many new beliefs and ideas. Tell us about those changes in your ideas. Tell us how living in a working class neighborhood of Spain has changed you, Nic. \nThere are over 400 Indiana University students studying abroad this summer around the world. There are many, like Nic, who are living or traveling in Europe. Let's read their stories of adaptation and cultural experiences.\nLet's read how their experiences have changed their world view. Lets read how they came to realize that their beliefs are just one of thousands in this world.