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Around the GLOBE

by Roberto Rojas-Alfaro, Ph.D. '21 C&I / Mar 25, 2024

Illinois students at the Asian American Cultural Center, Roberto Rojas-Alfaro pictured far right.

The U. of I.'s GLOBE program enabled Roberto Rojas-Alfaro to develop friendships with other international students and to teach them about his homeland of Costa Rica. Edited by Ryan A. Ross for the University of Illinois Alumni Association's Spring 2024 issue of Illinois Alumni magazine.

When I enrolled at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 2016—a fresh-faced international student from Costa Rica—it was the beginning of a transformative journey that made me feel like I truly belonged.

In my homeland, I had been an English professor, and I arrived in Champaign-Urbana to earn a doctorate in Curriculum & Instruction at the College of Education. I wanted to make a difference in the learning experiences of diverse student populations, and I thought Illinois could help me achieve that.

But first: There I was, a stranger in a strange, new land, trying to find a sense of belonging.

Roberto Rojas-Alfaro headshot

I quickly decided that I should get involved in a student program. The one I picked was Global Leaders Orange and Blue Engagement (GLOBE), and I remained an active member until the day I graduated.

I have countless memories of attending events and leading student activities at GLOBE’s headquarters in the Asian American Cultural Center.

Looking back, I can’t help but see GLOBE as a big, welcoming family and a safe space for me—an atmosphere that whispered, “You’re in the right place.” GLOBE gave me the opportunity to hone my leadership skills in a completely new environment, step out of my comfort zone and interact with people from around the world.

One of my favorite parts about GLOBE was a series of presentations in which people shared their life experiences from back home. Hearing those talks, I felt inspired to share my own experiences about life in Costa Rica, beyond the common perceptions of Latin America. Every country there, as well as every individual’s experience, is unique. I wanted to show that and to illustrate what Costa Rica looks like from an insider’s perspective.

My fellow students were intrigued to learn about a country that is not so well-known outside of North America and is often seen as a travel destination. I provided a window into what life in Costa Rica is really like, from its traditions and lifestyles to its mouthwatering food. I whipped up a delicious spread of “gallo pinto,” fried plantains and other treats that transported everyone to my homeland.

My talk felt more like a lively party than a presentation, and the experience deepened my appreciation for my culture and my country. Thanks to GLOBE, my time at Illinois was filled with laughter, self-discovery and unforgettable moments. It was an environment that allowed me to learn more about myself and to make new friends from all over the world. Because of those experiences, I know feel much more comfortable with intercultural interactions. Not only that, I feel like I now have the knowledge and confidence to educate a diverse range of students—the reason I pursued a doctorate in the first place!

I will always hold my memories of GLOBE—and of Illinois—close to my heart.

Roberto Rojas-Alfaro is an assistant professor of English at Salt Lake Community College in Utah.