I observed other cultures when I first came to the US. My first accomodation was in Williamsburg, a vibrant and lively neighbourhood in Brooklyn. It was the height of summer and the first thing that stood out to me was how Hispanic cultures enjoyed spending time outside – from my window I could see people playing cards, dominos and playing music. People would greet each other when walking past and I felt a deep sense of community. There would always be an influx of people mingling from local businesses and eateries. Coming from England, this stood out to me as it isn’t common practise in the UK. Despite London also being very international, it isn’t as openly practised in public so you rarley get to be a fly on the wall in this way.

I have seen similar interactions in Harlem when I make my way to college – people setting up informal stalls on the side of the road selling knickknacks and fruit and veg. This always comes with a communal sense of belonging and everyone knowing each other especially on the busier avenues. I would attribute this to cultural practice as it is most visible in immigrant heavy areas. As an immigrant myself, I am conscious and open to seeing how others have settled and how I can take a leaf from their book.

I am excited about the course as a whole, as I haven’t formally studied any social science perspectives outside of my general curiosity and observations. I’m looking forward to sharing ideas and discussions from a pool of people outside of culture and immediate circle. Ethnography is a new term for me, and I can see it tying well with Psychology, my chosen major. Whilst psychology explores how the mind works, joining this to specific cultures and practices will add another layer of understanding of human behaviour beyond just abstract concepts. I love writing and these are all topics I would love to sink my teeth into!