Why an Inside View Matters?

Immersion fosters understanding. That was my assumption when I applied for my ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant. After my first weeks in Cambridge, Massachusetts, it became evident that experiencing U.S. was incomparable to reading about it. The sounds, smells and sights bore more than a billion words.

My project was on inter-cohort changes in the association between criminal behavior and voting, and I felt a sore need to visit the U.S. to understand the electoral system in depth. One can read literature to an extent, but it was much easier to learn from discussions with people and from first-hand experiences.

Unexpected Mail

As my visit coincided with the 2024 presidential elections, I received an “Information for Voters” leaflet to my mailbox. The leaflet illustrated how many issues there were on the ballot and reminded that people might go to the polls because some local seats are open, even if their state might lean one way.

Also, despite the hubbub in Finnish media, the lack of advertising by the streets was surprising. I would have expected numerous placards on lawns and canvassers, but they were few and far between in Cambridge. It became apparent that simplification is needed when describing things for people looking outside in, not when immersed.

Together, It All Makes Sense

My visit also promoted my understanding of the U.S. culture. On Halloween, I discussed at length with a neighbor while giving Halloween candy to passers-by. 

The chat grew my appreciation of Americans’ relationship with their community and their willingness to work for improving it. My colleagues were less enthusiastic about the salmiakki I offered them earlier that day.

But it always takes a village, as it’s easier to make sense of things together. The Fulbright community made my visit a much more enjoyable experience. Hameed helped me by visiting an apartment, Katariina I randomly bumped into at a park and one group of former and current Fulbrighters I met for a pizza to share our ups and downs of everyday life.

The Fulbright community is for people open to new experiences who want to learn from others. While sometimes the names of the institutions Fulbrighters visit are intimidating, the world needs a diverse set of experiences and voices to shape a better future.