Northeastern University

Jess Talero

Final thoughts..

November 16th, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

These past three months have been so grand and surreal that looking back, I have to think to myself, Did I really just spend three months living in London right after high school? I remember family and friends telling me I was crazy for doing this, and until now, I see where they were coming from. It was actually only several months ago that I learned I would be coming to London and now that my time here is coming to a close, I am absolutely grateful to have been part of this experience and truly cherish everything everyone has taught me, from my professors, to friends, and to those I met during service learning.

Coming here, I knew I would be engaged in volunteer work and grasp a better understanding of it through service learning, but I leave more educated and broad-minded. I knew I would be “learning through service” but I really underestimated it. Like, I knew I would feel great after volunteering, but service learning allowed me to see the entire picture.

Working with Thames 21 allowed me to be more comfortable around the locals as I realized that they were just like me with the same values and all. This service motivated me even more for the protection of the environment and understand that I can do something to keep the land clean whether its up the street or “across the pond”.

Similarly, the Adidas 5k women’s challenge me showed me that optimism can really make a difference. Not only that, but seeing all these women run for a cause taught me of the determination Britons had. These women are just like my closest friends; my mom and my sister. I felt a connection with them and this experience personally showed me a more positive relationship with women in a different country. although I didn’t personally meet any of them, when they saw me cheer for them there was a personal intimacy that I will cherish.

And my long term commitment with Dogs2Mogs helped me see a different side of London. I saw a group of three women striving to create a better environment for dogs in a city and got to see their genuineness and love for dogs. This is really important to me as empathy towards animals stands high on my values and beliefs. It was my escape of central London and my time to connect with the locals for hours at a time, and several days a week. It became something of a family, where our purpose was to give our undivided attention to the dogs and be respectful of everyone around us. To me, Dogs2Mogs delved me into something I could have never learned without such experience. It’s difficult to explain, but it motivated me to research more about the problems of homeless dogs and how it can be solved.

T minus 13 days..

November 10th, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

I have less than two weeks here and I am absolutely shocked by how fast three months have gone by. Three months! You know, I remember all the goals and plans I had for London and I can honestly say that I’m leaving accomplished. Just today I was cleaning out my nightstand drawer and putting together all the ticket stubs I had been collecting and I really can’t believe all the shows I have seen and all the places I have visited. And thats just places that give away ticket stubs.. I just really don’t know what to say. I mean, looking back I just can’t believe all that I have done. During these months my mind has tremendously expanded from all the plays, musicals and comedy shows I have seen and all the museums I have visited. I’m in awe, and it really is difficult to explain how I feel because even just thinking to myself, I can’t put everything together for it to make sense. All I know is, I’m proud of myself to have been able to leave during my first semester at college and study abroad. I have learned things that I could have never learned in the books and saw things that I will always cherish in my memory.

With that said, I leave the United Kingdom with a new positive perspective of life and most importantly, I leave happy. I’m not going to lie, I miss home and can’t wait be back so I can see my family. But like everyone’s situation, it’s bittersweet. I’m counting down the days now, and say “Yes! I’ll be home in 13 days!” But then I realize, wow, I’ll be home in 13 days.. I mean, I have been living in London for the past 3 months and will most likely never live there again. It’s quite scary to think about.

But like I have said, although it is going to be hard to leave, I’m leaving happy and I’m going back to where I feel most comfortable- home. Also, I have always wanted to live in the city but lived in the middle of the Appalachian mountains. However, after living in this European metrapolis, I am now confident enough to say that I will one day be living and working in NYC and absolutely love it. And of course, I’m not worried anymore to live in a new city like Boston. London is great, but there’s nothing like good ol’ American cities.

One concern I will definitely have when I’m back is the states is how cheap I will find everything. I can’t help it, but I still convert everything I  purchase here. So, once I’m back in the states I’m going to want to buy EVERYTHING!  I pay £14 for several movie tickets. That’s crazy! That’s over $20 for a movie ticket.. I can already picture myself going to the movies on a weekly bases thinking that it is so cheap. However, this concern is also an excitement.

Oh and I cannot wait for American television. I know, I should be reading more (which trust me I will with all the new British plays I purchased here, my new obsession), but TV back home is SO good. Primetime televison.. HBO.. DirecTV.. more than five channels! Ah, I cannot curb my excitement.

All in all, I just cannot wait to be home. I came, I learned, I conquered and it’s time for me to head back as a new, and more cultured person. I’m really excited to just be in my own bed (until NU), go skiing once it gets a little colder or just drive up to Manhattan and see a great Broadway musical. And my family.. I have talked to them every single day since I have been here and it’s just going to be such a wonderful feeling to be back with them and with my new baby nephew whom I had to leave just one week after he was born. Finally, I am excited for Northeastern. It’s second on my list on what I look forward to when I’m back home (fam. first). I finally get to jumpstart my career and take the classes I’ve been dying for. Ah, I can’t wait for biology classes and be with people share my interests!

It’s time for Jess to go back to the Motherland. Cheerio England, you will truly be missed..

Global Citizenship

November 3rd, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Global citizenship is anyone who is engaged in global issues. It doesn’t mean you have to live in different countries for certain amount of years, but it is the idea of being in someway connected to other cultures around the world. This can interacting with someone from another culture and learning about their issues or simply reading the world section in their local newspaper. By learning of the issues around the world, in a sense, you become partly responsible for these issues. As you are now aware of what is happening, you have a say in what goes on. Of course, you cannot stop genocide in Darfur or stop tsunamis from hitting southeast Asia, but you can help organizations that do try to put some relief on these issues or you can start your own action. Global citizens belief in universal equality and are responsible to promote human welfare and protection of the earth that we all share.

I have been lucky enough to have been able to travel to different countries and form a relationship with people from those cultures. With this in mind, I believe interaction with other cultures has helped be become an even better global citizen. However, I still don’t believe that is the only way to be a global citizen. It is the idea of genuine concern for other cultures and their issues and a want to do some thing about it, even if it is the slightest thing.

Be the change you want to see in the world…

November 3rd, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

The change I want to see in the world is simply for people to become more aware and empathetic of the things they see in everyday life. It’s not necessarily a change in the world, but more a change in each individual around the world. If people become more aware of the issues that the globe faces, there’s a higher chance that people will want to do something about it, even if it’s the simplest things like turning off a light switch when leaving a room. And if more people around the world have a sense of empathy, it eliminates disputes and oppositions between cultures. By being able to understand other cultures and vise versa, their is no reason for conflict as these two communities can solve problems in a more peaceful and passive way.

This change would benefit me and those closest to me by getting rid of discrimination. This of course goes to everyone in all the communities around the globe. If people can understand others and share their feelings, then they longer have the need to feel superior or put others down. This would easily contribute to the common good.

For this change to occur, not only those close to me, but everyone has to first be self-aware. It is important to know how you are acting and understand if what you are doing is right. Many may find themselves blaming others with no reasonable explanation, so you have to stop yourself, and then understand the whole story. People also have to get out of their bubble if they are in one and involve themselves in the world. Watching the news and reading the newspapers will help you become of aware of global issues.

This service learning experience has really prepared me to work for this change. By working with others from a different community, I have become aware of the issues they face and how similar we actually all are. Because I have met strong women that have faced cancer or worked with people that want to protect the environment, I realized that they all care about the same things and that overall, we are all the same because we live in the same global community. Because of this relationship I have with the people of Great Britain, I become empathetic about the issues they face because like I said before , we are from the same community. Service learning has taught me to become even more open minded and empathetic of others. Not that I wasn’t before, but I see things from an even better perspective.

What I can do right now to help trigger this change is to just make others aware. Awareness is key and by just passing on the word, a great deal can be accomplished. It’s the idea of paying it forward. I see it as being a global ambassador. Help make the change you want to see in the world. You can never be to aware in life, so for me, it is my duty to do the best I can to know the issues around the world which will help me understand others and thus take action. All it takes is initiative and you need to be aware and understanding of issues to take such action.

Privilege/Identity reflection of Dogs2Mogs

October 27th, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

After working with Dogs2Mogs, my service learning project, I have really noticed a change within myself. I never thought that playing with dogs could change you, but being around the same dogs, the same people, in a different country, you become so grateful of the opportunity you were given. This project has allowed me to mature more and become more independent. Firstly, it was the first time I have ever had to have an interview. Of course I was nervous; how can I sell myself without sounding pompous or conceited, or even fake? But obviously I worried too much and it ended up being okay. But this small event in my life really put me in a different perspective. It was like, “Jess, snap out of it, it’s time to grow up.” Although it might not seem like a big deal, but it was to me and it showed me how my life is changing and these are the things I’m going to have to start thinking about. Also, traveling to Islington, which is half hour from Kensington, taught me that not everything is at my reach. Although there is so much I can do in my neighborhood, there wasn’t anything that interested me. So looking back, I’m proud of myself that I didn’t just commit to the first easy thing available. I found something that I would always love doing and know I would give all my effort. But what I am most grateful about is the dogs and people I have come to know in this service learning. The dogs have all become my friends and my heart seriously bursts when I see them wag their tail as they see me come through the door. Their affection towards me shows me that I really have done something in London and I couldn’t be more happy with myself. It is also such a privilege to work with other Londoners. I am immersed into the culture when I am with them and I feel like I have learned just as much with them as I have in my classes. And because of them, I feel like a Londoner.

Environmentalism Reflection

October 27th, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

After living in London for two and a half months, I have really been able to see the impact the people of this city are trying to make when it comes to protecting the environment. It has really convinced me that environmentalism has become a global issue by the things I have seen in London and the similarities it has with America. During our FIE orientation, Katie couldn’t stress enough the importance of conserving energy and reusing non-biodegradable things. I actually found it quite surprising that all the electrical outlets had an off switch; it’s a brilliant idea and I can’t believe I don’t see any of those in the states. Anyways, I had been comparing FIE and Northeastern and realized that both are genuinely stressing for a more green school. I know in Northeastern, the dining halls have composting which shows that schools all over the world are concerned and have noticed that there is a big issue. Another thing I found quite innovative was the first time I went to Pret A Manger. Instead of having one large waste basket, they have a section for left over food, a section for recyclables, and a drain for left over drinks. It is such a simple concept, yet it can make such a difference. Of course, you will always see garbage and evidence of someone not doing their part on the side of the street, but with projects such as Thames 21 and other organizations my classmates have participated in to protect the environment, London isn’t falling behind the green movement. It’s really great to see how similar England and the US in environmentalism.

Changing Perspectives

October 20th, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Community Evaluation of Service Learning

October 20th, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

1. My name is Jess Talero and I am student taking a service learning course while studying abroad in London. The course is integrated into our Global Experience course and my role is to learn the theoretical aspect of volunteering and service learning to be able to apply such methods in my service-learning experiences.

2. My long term commitment service-learning as a dog carer with Dogs2Mogs has gone very well. I have already gone three times and am scheduled to come in until basically the end of the semester. I get along great with all the supervisors; they are very down to earth and very understanding if there are any issues with my scheduled shifts. Most importantly, I love all the dogs I work with. They are such a treat and an escape from school stress. Coming in with an open mind and understanding that I would be working with people from a different culture have contributed to successful outcomes. I know my time at Dogs2Mogs has been successful because I haven’t had a problem with the supervisors, I get along with all of them, and I haven’t been fired (because they will do so even if you are a volunteer).

3. An obstacle I have encountered was simply having to get up at 6:30 in the morning to get ready for my shift at 8. It’s about a 45 minute commute so every Tuesday and Thursday I need to wake up early. I’m not trying to complain, but with classes scheduled throughout the entire day, trying to finish homework at night and preparing everything for the next day I end up going to bed late. My problem is that I don’t want to seem tired during my rotation.

4. My goals in the first place was to complete my hours. As I started off slow with my hours I was able to find a service that the supervisors were looking for commitment with flexibility in accordance to my schedule. Although I am getting through my hours rather quickly which was my goal, I am looking forward to going even after I finish my 30 hours.

5. One thing I would do differently for the next time is dress in layers. Having to go out to the park in this chilly weather can actually take my mind off the dogs and just start thinking about how cold I am.

6. The community organization  should engage more with the students during the experience. I know it’s not their job and although I have had conversations with the supervisors, it would be help me delve into my service learning.

7. I honestly don’t think the college should do something differently right now. We are taught the information in class, we are told to complete 30 hours. We’re in college now and I already feel like it’s kind enough for the teachers and ISA’s to help us find events or warn us we need to get this done fast. I heard that in Greece everything is all set up. If this is true, then I wouldn’t really learn much. My learning has been from managing my time, doing interviews, and being committed.

8. I would describe this experience as an opportunity to socialize, play, and care for dogs while their owners are away- a doggy day care. I would emphasize that all of the carers and supervisors work very hard and show a genuine love for dogs.

Doggy Day Care in Zone 2!

October 13th, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Earlier this month I, along with Lindsey, began our long term commitment service with Dogs2Mogs, a doggy Day Care in Zone 2. The ride was quite easy but it was pretty far; I only had to take the Piccadilly Line, but all the way to Holloway Road (2 stops after King’s Cross). It was actually strange getting off the tube because I had absolutely no idea where I was and everything looked so unfamiliar. However, as I was walking towards the center, the area became more quiet and less busy. It was in a very nice neighborhood with single houses and trees along the sidewalks. It was a London I hadn’t seen yet, nothing like central London or Wembley. It seemed really peaceful.

After my interview, Debbie, one of the supervisors, introduced us to the dogs! So there was Archie, the adorable, happy doxon; Louis, the silly french bulldog and Bia, Jasper, Disco, Elvis. My goodness, I was in heaven. The entire time I was London I had been looking for service events working with dogs but they were all looking for uber long commitments and had strict schedules. Dogs2Mogs was perfect. They understood our class schedules and were very flexible. However, they are strict when you commit. They told me if I signed up to work one day and was either late, absent, or tried to cancel the night before, they would fire me.

Working with the dogs was amazing! My job description is to give the dogs my undivided attention so me being obsessed with dogs couldn’t have been more happy! Though I only did it for two hours I feel like I did a lot. I, along with the other volunteers, took the dogs out for a walk and let them play around in the park for a while. They were absolutely adorable and so well behaved! Next week I have three 5 hour shifts and I’m looking forward to it! And I also can’t wait to meet the other dogs that were not there last time . It takes a good 45 minutes to get there, but it’s definitely worth it

The Disciplinary Lens

October 13th, 2009 by taleroj | Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Skills/Critical Inquiry Perspectives for Behavioral Neuroscience Major

• knowledge in biology, physiology, anatomy, biochem, chemistry, math
• clear understanding of the nervous system
• study of mental processes and behavior in humans/other species
• knowledge in psychology
• the study of pathology relating to neurobiology
• ability to understand psychology in a biological aspect
• practical/experiential skills

Activities community partner needs

• Be able to socialize with the dogs
• Give all dogs full attention at all times
• Be responsible for the care of the dogs
  • have water ready for them
  • give them the required amount of food
  • take dogs on walks
  • clean after them

Though the skills for a neuroscience major seem completely off from the activities that need to be done at the doggy day care, both are comparable and have some similarities. The study of mental processes and behaviors is very important to understand when working with not only humans, but also animals. My major is a combination of neurobiology and psychology, so the ability to understand why people act a certain way according to the physiology of the brain and nervous system is very important. The way this is comparable to my community partner activities is that the knowledge I can gain from my major, I can apply it during my volunteer work.

Dogs are just as complex as humans and they all vary in behavior. All the dogs that I work with are very different. For example, I understand that with a puppy I must socialize with them differently than I would with a much older dog. Because both are at different levels of capabilities, I must treat them at their level. Archie, who is only two years old is very playful, but he’s also a doxon, so he’s pretty small. I know that with him I can be playful and make him run around, but I also know that I cannot throw a ball 20 yards and expect him to catch it. I also can’t expect him to keep up with the rest of the bigger dogs  when going for walks because of his short legs. By understanding what kind of mentality Archie has and his physical capabilities, I know that I am not hurting him in any way.

Baia, who is a much older dog needs more affectionate care. Mentally and physically, she doesn’t want to play so much. So when I see her laying down, I prefer to just let her sit there while I pet her belly; she enjoys that. Also, because I don’t know how they were brought up, I can’t give them my full trust. Dogs will still have that animal instinct, some more than others depending in what kind of environment they have been in, so I have to be careful when I am with them. One of the dogs may be possessive of their food, so I must be careful whenever I try to approach them while they are eating as they might feel threatened by my presence.

So by understanding their mentality and what they are capable of doing, I can socialize with all the dogs and give them what they need without hurting them or myself. My major is understanding the behavior of people, but I can also apply it to any other animal.