Career Corner: A Chat with Janel Martinez

Photo courtesy of Janel Martinez

Meet Janel Martinez, a journalist with a love for travel. A graduate of Syracuse University, Janel not only learned about other cultures as she studied literature and art, but she also learned a great deal about herself. Today on KoMiSa’s World we will get a glimpse into Janel’s intriguing study abroad experience.

1. Where did you study abroad?

I studied abroad in Paris, France. I was enrolled in a Syracuse University study abroad program called “Paris Noir: Literature, Art, & Contemporary Life in Diaspora.” It’s an African-American studies program that focuses on the African American influence in The City of Lights.

2. When did you study abroad and how long did you stay?

I studied abroad in the summer of 2008. Paris Noir is a six-week program.

3. What was your sole purpose for studying abroad? Did you accomplish that purpose? How has studying abroad changed your life? You as a person?

I went into my undergrad years knowing I would study abroad, but not too sure where I would go. It’s funny because I took Italian for two and a half semesters thinking I was going to go to Italy, but at the last minute decided on Paris. It was seriously one of the best decisions I’ve made to date.

I learned so much from my experience abroad. For one, I finally felt comfortable in my own skin as an Afro-Latina. Growing up, I felt like I constantly had to choose between being black and Hispanic. Nowadays, you see various ethnicities and Latinos from different countries, but growing up if you weren’t Puerto Rican or Dominican you weren’t really Spanish. And I wasn’t really black with a last name like Martinez. It wasn’t until my abroad curriculum delved into multiplicity of identity that I had an “aha” moment. I realized I didn’t have to define myself by society’s standards; I could embrace being more than one thing.

Also, while our coursework involved lengthy readings and papers, my professor made sure we viewed Paris as our classroom—walking tours, trips to the museum and restaurants were just as important as our class time, which, by the way, took place at Café de Flore where James Baldwin worked on his novel “Go Tell It On the Mountain.” The experience taught me to not limit my travels to a tourist’s perspective and to experience a country as a native. Yeah, I had to go visit the Eiffel Tower, but most of my days were spent living as a Parisian. I still view the 11 Arrondissement as my home away from home.

4. Were you initially excited and ready to go or were there any fears or reservations? If so what were they and how did you overcome? If not what expectations ignited your excitement?

While I was extremely excited about my first visit to Europe, I was also extremely nervous. I had no idea what to expect. At the time, I absolutely hated flying so the nine-hour flight was reason for concern. Also, at 19 years old, being so far away from home was a little nerve racking.

The fear of the unknown can really trip you up and cause you to put things off, but I just went for it. That’s all you can do. I put my reservations to the side and just went for it. I have no regrets.

5. What was your experience like studying abroad?

My experience abroad was life changing. I think as Americans, it’s so easy to get caught up in the notion that the world revolves around you but there’s a whole other world that exists beyond our borders. I admired Parisians for taking the time to enjoy life. No one’s rushing to eat and get back to work—in fact, stores close down for a few in the afternoon. Things are more relaxed there; the stress-level is a lot lower. I miss that.

6. Are you bilingual or multilingual? If so what languages do you speak? If so...(continue to the questions below)  

I wouldn’t consider myself multilingual. I know very basic Spanish and a few words of French. Oh, and some Italian.

6a. How has studying/working abroad impacted your languages skills?

I went to France not knowing a bit of French, but left knowing how to introduce myself to people (name, major, where I was from, etc.) and how to order my meals. My Italian came in handy once.

      

7. How has studying abroad impacted you career path and outlook?

While I haven’t explored any career opportunities abroad, studying abroad has shown me that I can go anywhere and be okay. I’d definitely work abroad if the right opportunity presented itself.

7a. What is your current position and what does your position entail?

I’m a journalist. I’m currently the technology editor at BlackEnterprise.com. My job entails overseeing the editorial vision and strategy for the channel of the site. I do quite a few things; I oversee a small staff of freelance writers, edit, write and report, as well as produce videos.

7b. Is there an international aspect to your position?

I work online so I can work from anywhere, as long as there’s an Internet connection.

8. What characteristics does one need pursue a position such as yours?

A person needs to be inquisitive, diligent, persistent, reliable, organized, have a strong work ethic and great communication skills. That’s just to name a few.

Journalism has changed a bit with the rise of social media and new digital innovations so current journalism students should try to familiarize themselves with the various storytelling methods. If they can, definitely learn how to shoot video because multimedia storytelling is essential.

9. Do you have any advice for others who want to study abroad?

My advice to students looking to go abroad, don’t second-guess yourself, just go for it. Students of color are less likely to study abroad when compared with our counterparts and it’s because we let certain things deter us from moving forward with our plans. For example, many study abroad programs aren’t cheap, but you can afford it—revisit your financial aid package, apply for scholarships or even ask family members/supporters if they’d be willing to donate money towards your excursion. Fundraising is also another option. It’s definitely doable.

Thank you very much Janel for sharing your study abroad experience on KoMiSa’s World!!! If you would like to connect with Janel feel free to find her on twitter at @janelmwrites

Hasta el proximo vez,

KoMiSa

A Fun Time Speaking to Students at My Home By the Sea

The third week of January was a very busy week for me. I had the opportunity to travel to Maryland and Virginia for both work and play. I had a lot of fun spending time with family and friends celebrating President Obama’s second inauguration and celebrating my friend’s birthday while in Maryland. I also had a chance to see more friends in family during my brief time in Virginia. Although I love my family and friends and really enjoyed the celebrations of President Obama and my friend's birthday those were not the only reasons for my trip. I stay in contact with my former Spanish professor/ advisor, Dr. McRae so a couple of weeks before my trip I let her know that I was going to be in the Hampton Roads area and asked her if I could share my study abroad and language learning experiences with some of her classes at my alma mater, Hampton University. She loved the idea so we solidified the logistics and I was all set.

I had an amazing time speaking to Dr. McRae’s Spanish classes. It was such a pleasure to speak to my fellow Hamptonians about the study abroad and language learning experiences that I had as a Hampton University student as well as the study abroad experiences that I had post graduation. The students were genuinely interested in the conversation and asked some insightful questions. I could tell that some of the students have a keen interest in studying abroad so I was glad that I could help foster that interest.

As a Marketing and Spanish double major I made sure to stop by the School of Business to see some of my business professors. I had the opportunity to visit one of my favorite marketing professors, Dr. Sonja Mitchell. One of the lessons that many of my Hampton University professors including Dr. Mitchell instilled in us was to always be prepared and ready for any opportunity that presents itself. It is not often that I visit my professors and not be asked to do something, share updates, etc. Visiting Dr. Mitchell was no exception. Dr. Mitchell’s Marketing Research class started 15 minutes after I stopped by her office to say hello. While I was giving her my update on what I had recently accomplished and what I am currently doing, Dr. Mitchell asked if I would speak to the students in her next class. There was no way that I could say no so I gladly obliged and what an awesome experience it was!

I truly enjoyed speaking to the current marketing students, many who will be graduating in May. I tailored my topic a bit to include how I use my marketing degree in my chosen career path. I spoke about my blog, “KoMiSa’s World” and incorporated studying abroad and language learning into the conversation. Many of the students had great questions about studying abroad and the various options they could pursue as a student and once they graduate from Hampton University. 

I have spoken to many students in various schools and organizations but there is always something extra special when I speak to students from my “Home By the Sea” Hampton University. I am instantly reminded of the graduates who came back to speak to my classmates and I when we were students. I know how impactful their stories, experiences and interactions were to us. To know that I may have a similar impact on the current students makes every experience that I shared that much more meaningful. Not only have my experiences enriched my life, but they allow me to give back and make a difference in others’ lives as well.

The icing on the cake are the emails that I have been receiving from the students that I spoke to in both the Spanish and Marketing classes. I am honored that the students see the value in my experiences and my advice. I was truly blessed during my matriculation at Hampton University and thankful that I can now be a blessing to the current students.  

A huge thank you to Dr. McRae and Dr. Mitchell for allowing me to speak to your students. 

KoMiSa’s Thoughts: You never know when you will get the opportunity to share your experiences with others so when you get the chance take it. Whether it is speaking to a class like did or speaking to one person, the experiences that you share can often be the inspiration/motivation that the other person needs to continue on their journey through life.

Hasta el proximo vez,

KoMiSa