Mariah Mowbray’s StoryMap – Geography 210: Geographic Dimensions of Human Development

I haven’t traveled much internationally, but the few times I’ve visited other countries have one thing in common: The Sister Cities International program. The Lexington, Kentucky chapter has paired with four locations: Deauville, France; County Kildare, Ireland; Shinhidaka, Japan; and Newmarket, England. Two areas can be officially designated “sister cities” after the highest elected or appointed official from each signs an agreement, and it’s based on partnership and the formation of a long-term relationship based on mutual community interests at municipal, business, educational, and cultural levels. One of the largest projects undertaken by any sister city pairing is a cultural exchange, and for three summers in a row, I was lucky enough to participate in three of the Lexington exchanges. These programs have increased my awareness of other cultures, religions, and languages, and have also, surprisingly, strengthened my appreciation of horses. The inspiration for the coupling of all of these cities with Lexington is greatly motivated by the prominence of the horse industry in the area. The equine connection has certainly colored my understanding of the locations, but I sought out experiences past this component when learning about the other culture. Through the program, I participated in homestays where I not only stayed with a family for ten days, but the student from the other city visited me and my family in Lexington. This is a testament to the quality of the program and the strength of their roommate questionnaires, but I thoroughly enjoyed my time with each exchange student despite our different cultures, language barriers, and other differences. Each visit taught me that every place is unique, but people can, and will, always find a way to connect and unite.

Benjamin P. says:

October 1, 2015 at 2:12 pm

Hi Mariah! You did a good job on your StoryMap. You gave a clear narrative of your trips, and discussed in detail the fun times you had in these other countries. The video at the beginning was a nice introduction to the Sister Cities International Program. The photos of yourself that you included make your story a little more personal. Your program enabled you to learn about other cultures first-hand, but not without some struggle. I especially liked how you talked about the language barrier that you faced in Japan and the “accent barrier” that you faced in Ireland. By discussing the language barriers, you reminded me that globalization is not always easy because it is hard for people who speak different languages to understand each other. Overall, nice work!

Jared GE says:

October 1, 2015 at 2:15 pm

Hey Mariah!

Although I was not expecting it going in relative to other StoryMaps, I quite liked your amicable tone, almost as if we were having a conversation about this very thing. An interesting presentive tactic and I believe it plays to your advantage in this setting.

I liked your integration of the applicable videos. Not only did these provide a more immersive experience, but they also provide the reader with more information on the topics you are covering.

I don’t seem to be able to find your interactive materials.

The topic of our course that stands out most drastically in your StoryMap is that of Region. Whether you were experiencing a different place through the wonderful program you have described or your interactions with the local people. Overall, I quite enjoyed learning about your travels! Well done.