About

This project first began in the spring semester of my freshman year in 2018 for the INTS-409 course Diversity in a Globalized World. Part of the objective of this semester project was community engagement. I wanted to achieve this utilizing one of my strengths--digital media. What began as basic video idea, evolved and was shaped by multiple rejections of project proposals, which I feel played a notable role in leading me to create this finished product.

My vision always centered on two main subjects; culture and identity, and sharing this with others to create understanding. While at the end I didn't end up doing what I had initially been proposing, the obstacles I faced, having to quickly adapt and change direction, and not giving up on the class was a fruitful learning experience. What became my final project was still similar to what I had been proposing at the beginning of the semester, coming together in a whirlwind two weeks right before the semesters end.

*I've added elements of other project proposals and done some edits to the website to remove the look of a course assignment, and make it easier to navigate.

Below lies the original content of this "About" page.

Janine Knauerhase

I am an International Studies student on the Politics and Diplomacy track because I want to understand other perspectives and continuously learn. Both German, and Mexican-American, I was born in Munich, and raised in El Paso. Despite being surrounded by the Hispanic culture I also grew up with German influence. Being multicultural increases my interest in language and other cultures around the world, and relating to them and other people.

Texas A&M is a diverse campus. There are countless ethnic, religious and cultural communities. However, in general, many groups keep to themselves.

My goal is to serve as a bridge and meet people to not only learn about their culture etc, but connect with them as individuals. In turn, one can learn what issues some groups or organizations face; this includes within their own culture and religion, or simply with spreading awareness of their organization and educating others on their culture.

By also attending events put on by other groups and acting as a bridge to encourage other to attend events they might otherwise not have, both parties benefit. This allows the exchange of knowledge and connections to be made.

Our Mission