Globalization-Sterling Paulson

It is strange to think about how globalization has effected me, not because it hasn't had a large effect, but rather because it is so commonplace that I often never reflect upon it. However, just off of my current situation I can see its role in my life. I sit listening to a Canadian musician on my iPhone, manufactured in China, while wearing a Nike sweatsuit, also manufactured in China, and eating an "Americanized" version of a South American dish. The fact that we use the term "Ameicanization" shows how prevalent globalization is, as it has become commonplace for aspects of various cultures to be brought into the United States and assimilated into our "Melting Pot" culture. All of this is made possible through a complex, interconnected, global society joined though trade, travel, diplomacy and technology. This is how globalization functions to me. Through these networks, different area of the world are able to exchange new ideas, goods, trends, and cultural aspects. As a member of the LDS Church and a BYU student, I am able to hear from missionaries how readily members of other countries across the globe adopt LDS religious practices once only known to the United States. This is relevant to me as I am working to have the opportunity to serve as a missionary and help share my religion and culture with the world, while learning about the culture of others and possibly even adopting some of their practices, a process of cultural exchange that fuels globalization. Further, in my studies as a Public Health major, I have been able to see how multiple countries come together to pool resources and cooperate on a global basis to improve the health of people in countries throughout the world. These programs are facilitated through networks established by globalization and through shared aspects of culture brought about by globalization. As I hope to one day become involved in this work, it is apparent that my future will be influenced by globalization, just as my past and present.