Jameco McKenzie, M.Ed.
Pronouns - He/Him
Ethnicity - Black - Bahamian
Occupation - Student Affairs Educator
Place of Employment -
NC State University
What global experiences have you taken part in when you were a student and/or as a young professional?
I came to the United States as an International Student from The Bahamas back in 2011, over the last decade I have had the opportunity to visit many different parts of the United States and also as a undergrad had an study abroad experience to Nicaragua
How has Global Education impacted you personally, academically, & professionally?
Being able to study and work abroad has helped shape my worldview and perspective of society and how to interact with others. I have learned to ask questions and really take in various cultures to understand how people interact and what community might mean to people from all over. I think it has helped me realize that there is no one way to do things and learn about the vastness in the ways of being.
What challenges have you had to overcome as you gained your global experience(s)? One challenge in my international student experience was understanding various culturally specific slangs or words that have different meanings than what I had assumed. It caused me to be much more aware of cultural context and what is being said and done. In my experience in Nicaragua I lived for a week with a house family who only spoke Spanish. I learned very quickly to pick up context clues and the high school Spanish I thought I had forgotten came back to me.
What or who inspired you to take part in a study/internship/work abroad experience?
I was inspired by older cousins to branch out and not be limited in my exploration of the world beyond our small community in The Bahamas. I saw how their travel and experience helped them gain new perspectives and be able to talk about different cultures so I wanted to get that same feeling.
How has your identity impacted your global experience(s)?
Being a Black Caribbean identified person has impacted how people perceive me. I am able to both blend in on a daily basis throughout my college, graduate school and professional life. At the same time, coming from the Caribbean, when I went to Nicaragua it felt very similar to the island life I was accustomed to.
How has/ had seeing other people of color/diverse backgrounds influenced your decision to study/ intern abroad?
Seeing other POCs (People of Color) has helped me see that we can occupy this space and thrive.
As a Kultural Kurator, what does culture mean to you?
Culture means a way of life, belonging and specific contextual understanding of people & society.
Self/Soul care is so important as we live our lives and grow in our professions. How do you incorporate self/soul care into your life?
I find solace in connecting with friends and family over brunch, a phone call on whatsapp or scheduled time where I do nothing but be present with myself.
What advice would you give to a future Kultural Kurator as they think about taking opportunities to explore the world around them?
Do it! Don't be afraid to explore and branch out. There is so many things you can learn about yourself and others from this experience. Keep a journal and reflect on your journey while out exploring the world.
How can others follow you on social media and/or is there an email address or website that you'd like to share?
@mecomck242 or ljmckenz@ncsu.ed