As someone deeply drawn to exploration and connection, I have always found meaning in travelling – immersing myself in different cultures, meeting new people, and seeing the world through perspectives beyond my own. This upcoming trip to Uzbekistan feels especially exciting, as it will take me to a part of the world I have never experienced, offering unfamiliar landscapes and rich historical depth. Our journey will centre around two remarkable cities: Tashkent and Samarkand. Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is known as a major Central Asian hub. From what I’ve learned, it presents a fascinating blend of influences – where Islamic heritage meets Soviet-era architecture, all within a rapidly modernising city. I’m curious to see how these layers of history and identity coexist in everyday life. Samarkand, on the other hand, has an almost legendary reputation. As a key city along the ancient Silk Road and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has long been a centre of trade, scholarship, and culture. I am especially excited to experience its architecture firsthand, especially the intricate mosaics and tilework for which the city is famous. Beyond the cities themselves, I’m eager to immerse myself in the everyday rhythms of Uzbekistan. From wandering through bustling bazaars to observing the small details of daily life, I hope to gain a more nuanced understanding of the country’s culture and traditions. Experiencing both Tashkent and Samarkand will also give me the chance to compare how history and modernity shape each place in different ways, offering a richer perspective on the nation as a whole. Another major aspect of this trip is participating in my first Model United Nations conference – on a scale far larger than I ever imagined, with over 500 international delegates. I’m both excited and a little nervous to engage in discussions on global issues, challenge my perspectives, and develop my research, analysis, and public speaking skills. Representing Bolivia will also push me to think critically about a country I am eager to learn more about, and to approach global topics through a new and specific lens. As I prepare for this journey, I want to be intentional about how I experience and reflect on it. I’ll be carrying a few guiding questions with me throughout the trip: How do everyday routines reflect the culture? In what ways do Tashkent and Samarkand feel different, and what might explain those differences? And ultimately, what will I carry home from this experience? I hope these questions will help me stay present, curious, and open to the perspectives I encounter along the way. With that in mind, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to take part in this journey. It represents not only a chance to explore a new part of the world, but also to challenge myself, learn in a completely different environment, and grow both academically and personally. From engaging in Model UN discussions to wandering through historic cities, I know this experience will push me in ways I haven’t yet encountered. As I come to the end of my first year of university, this trip feels like a meaningful and memorable way to close this chapter – one that I hope will leave me with lasting perspectives, new connections, and a deeper sense of curiosity about the world.
Senya Hammer Hamlin